Rory Antonio, a trailblazing force in the hairdressing industry, has proudly celebrated two successful years of his salon – Rory Antonio Hair & Beauty Lab. Since opening the doors in May 2022, the salon has established itself as a beacon of creativity and excellence, transforming the hair and beauty scene in the UK city of Wolverhampton.

Rory Antonio’s journey is a testament to passion, innovation, and dedication. Beginning his career at the renowned Royston Blythe salon, Rory honed his skills and showcased his artistic talent at photoshoots and catwalk shows. His desire for new challenges led him to Ashley Gamble, where he furthered his expertise and contributed significantly to the salon’s reputation for excellence.

In 2022, Rory’s entrepreneurial spirit propelled him to launch his own salon, Rory Antonio Hair & Beauty Lab. With a vision to create a distinctive brand, synonymous with creativity and exceptional service, Rory has dedicated himself to pushing the boundaries of hairdressing.

“I wanted to build more than just a salon; I wanted to create an experience and a brand that stands out for its innovation and quality,” said Rory. “Our mission is to offer our clients unparalleled service and creativity, making every visit to our salon a memorable one.”

Known for his expertise in full cut and colour services and his proficiency with hair extensions, Rory has curated a loyal clientele, who trust him for their transformative hair journeys. His commitment to excellence was recognised in 2023 when he made his debut in the British Hairdressing Awards, reaching the finals for Midlands Hairdresser of the Year with his first-ever entry.

Reflecting on his journey, Rory shared valuable insights from his entrepreneurial experience. He emphasises the importance of meticulous financial management, especially navigating government-backed schemes and understanding hidden costs. 

“Persistence and patience are key,” he noted, sharing lessons learned about the unforeseen expenses that come with running a business. Rory also highlights the significance of choosing reliable salon suppliers and understanding the client demographic when selecting products.

“It’s essential to balance financial benefits with the customer experience,” he advised, advocating for a thoughtful approach to retail and product selection.

Building a dream team is another aspect of Rory’s success. He emphasises the value of home-grown talent and creating a supportive and rewarding work environment.

“Finding good, reliable staff is challenging, but investing in your team and showing appreciation can make all the difference,” Rory explained.

As Rory Antonio Hair & Beauty Lab celebrates this significant milestone, Rory remains focused on the future. His goals include further establishing his salon as a community hub, continuing to educate the next generation of hairdressers, and expanding his creative endeavours through photoshoots and competitions.

Rory Antonio’s story is one of inspiration, hard work, and unwavering commitment to excellence. As he marks two years in business, the industry eagerly anticipates the continued impact of his contributions, expecting even greater achievements in the years to come.

Find out more about the hairdressing talent here.

V’s Barbershops, synonymous with the authentic barbershop experience since their establishment in 1999, are proud to announce the addition of prestigious UK grooming brand Captain Fawcett Ltd to their repertoire.

Captain Fawcett Ltd is a Manufacturer and Purveyor of a simply delectable range of ‘First Class Gentlemen’s Grooming Requisites’. The multi-award-winning product ranges are proudly ‘Made in the UK’ and favored by top-tier barbers and hair stylists throughout the world.

Founded by Jim Valenzuela (Mr V) in homage to cherished boyhood memories at Nick’s Barbershop, V’s Barbershops are acclaimed across the US for their time-honored sense of community and impeccable service.

Now, bolstering their mutual commitment to quality and tradition, V’s Barbershops introduce Captain Fawcett, renowned for heritage, craftsmanship and commitment to excellence. This partnership marks a significant milestone for both brands, as they continue to redefine the barbershop experience, fostering memorable moments for men and their sons across the nation.

Mr. V (Jim Valenzuela) said: “Partnering with Captain Fawcett to be their exclusive US retail launchpad is an exciting moment for V’s Barbershop. Their uncompromising quality, refined aesthetic, and elite reputation make them a standout in the men’s grooming space.

“This is something the American market hasn’t seen before, and we’re honored to be the ones to introduce it.”

Richie Finney, founder of Captain Fawcett, said: “I am absolutely delighted our brand has found its first American home with V’s Barbershop, marking what promises to be the beginning of an inspiring partnership.

“Mr V shares my own love for the cherished traditions of classic barbershops, places where time slows down, stories unfold and memories are not just made, but woven into the very fabric of our lives, honoring the timeless bonds uniting us across generations.”

Inspired by the many aromatic oils collected upon his voyages around the globe, Captain Fawcett offers a comprehensive range of contemporary male-specific products, infused with elegant fragrance and perfect for scent layering.

Masterminded at a magnificent Gentleman’s Emporium in King’s Lynn, Norfolk, UK, Captain Fawcett pays tribute to the ageless spirit of adventure which lives on in the hearts and minds of gentlemen everywhere.

Captain Fawcett is a key Brand Partner of The Fellowship for British Hairdressing’s ‘Project MEN’, providing products to global industry experts as they mentor the new generation of barbers and hairdressers at prestigious events throughout the year.

Iconic men’s grooming brand, American Crew, teamed up with top hairstylist, Kumi Craig to elevate movie star, Jamie Dornan’s MET Gala 2024 look. 

Whilst the MET Gala finished in the wee hours of Tuesday the 7^th of May, the fashion-forward looks that celebrities from across the globe delivered are still on our minds. Jamie Dornan, who played the infamous Mr Gray, is one of them. Teaming up with go-to stylist, Kumi Craig, who has also worked on stars, such as Sebastian Stan, Nicholas Cage and Pete Davidson, Jamie’s grooming stood out on the beige carpet. 

Kumi said: “For Jamie’s look, we wanted to keep it simple and effortless. I used a few of my go-to American Crew products to enhance and add texture to his curls and keep his beard soft, conditioned and ready for the red-carpet night ahead.” 

American Crew was founded in 1994 creating a market for grooming options made specifically for men. Over 25 years later, the company has developed a comprehensive portfolio of premium products, as well as a legacy steeped in commitment to the performance that stylists demand and the quality that men trust. From hair and body to shave, skin and fragrance, the American Crew® brand is dedicated to fulfilling the styling needs of today’s man.

Kumi used American Crew products to create his look and BarberEVO has the exclusive details from the artist herself…

Jamie’s Look Breakdown

• “On towel-dried hair, I began by spraying American Crew® Prep and Prime Tonicall over to prepare the hair for styling and for increased control and manageability.”

• “I then applied American Crew® Fiber Cream evenly throughout his hair to enhance his curls, provide a natural shine, and create flexibility with control for an effortless look.”

• “After styling his hair, I apply a small amount of American Crew® 2-in-1 Skin Moisturizer and Beard Conditioner to his beard to moisturize the skin beneath and condition the beard.”

•  “Last, I apply American Crew® Beard Serum to my palms, rub my hands together and spread evenly throughout his beard to keep it well-groomed, looking soft, and ready for the night ahead.”

The latest issue of BarberEVO UK and Ireland is OUT NOW.     

Get your copy here!

The latest issue of BarberEVO UK and Ireland is OUT NOW! Inside this issue, we have exclusive content from a variety of esteemed columnists and industry professionals covering everything from education, additional revue to your business, and the latest styling trends. We cover all this and more inside the latest issue.  

IN THIS ISSUE:     

Hayden Cassidy  

BarberEVO columnist and cover star, Hayden Cassidy, tells us all about her exciting new collaboration with Dior as their brand-new UK Grooming Expert. We speak to Hayden about her new role with the luxury fashion brand, as she takes us behind the scenes of her new opportunity; giving readers the inside scoop on how this came to fruition, what’s to come and showcasing the endless possibilities for barbering talent in the UK.  

Education 

In this industry, there is always room for investing in education. We speak to Simon Shaw and Alan Beak all about The Fellowship’s new Project Men & Media program and hear from those involved. Elsewhere we focus on how Artero is setting themselves apart in the industry as educators with Eric Way Lovemore. Also featuring words from some of our favourite educators, Vikki Harrison Smith, Mike Taylor, Ben Clifford, and Sigma Male Grooming.  

INTERIORS 

In a modern barbershop, being able to deliver a quality cut isn’t enough. Your store needs to look and feel good to clients, as we delve into the ways to boost your interiors. Here, we delve into how Barber Smiths transformed their shop with bespoke REM chairs, how to elevate your offerings with Takara Belmont, and how to revamp your workstations.  

Business & Technology 

Choosing how to market your business is never simple, as we speak to Josh O.P about his decision to build a brand based on himself while we get behind-the-scenes access to Heiniger’s latest UK campaign with Rex Silver and Robert Braid. Elsewhere, columnist Carlie Cardle tells BarberEVO readers about finding a side hustle that fits your lifestyle, while Jay Robert tells us all about the additional services you can add to your barbershop to boost revenue, and much more.  

In an increasingly digital world, technology is always evolving to make our lives easier. Which is where Rascal’s owner and founder Sam Bentham comes in, as we discuss all about why Fresha was the only and obvious choice for him when it comes to barbershop tech.  

Product Focus: Styling  

Styling is a huge part of being a barber, and knowing how to use the right tools and products to transform your client is key. Speaking to the very best, Bridey Jo shares her best styling tips, tricks and top products with BarberEVO readers. We hear from Curly Tom about why Byrd Hairdo Products is the ultimate choice for him when it comes to textured hair, while Chambers Sheffield owner Jonno Hart swears by Dapper Dan for premium results. 

 We hope you enjoy this issue! You can order your print copy here. 

Leading barbering tool manufacturer and professional education, Andis® Company, has just unveiled its new limited-edition Galaxy colourway.

Meant to capture the infinite possibilities when working with Andis® tools, the sleek, iridescent look of this new collection captures the hearts of professionals whose sights are set on the stars.

Featuring some of Andis® Company’s most popular tools, the Galaxy collection includes the cord/cordless Slimline Pro Trimmer and the Envy Li Adjustable Blade Clipper, which are available individually and as a combo kit.

“Fans of the Envy Li Clipper and Slimline Pro Trimmer will love this exciting new colourway!” said Angie Perino, Andis’ Global Education Manager. “These popular tools are lightweight, cordless and comfortable for professional all-day use, but pack the power and precision to create any style.”

The Slimline Pro Trimmer features a balanced, ergonomic shape for outlining, designing and dry shaving. Sleek and lightweight, the cord/cordless design allows for greater flexibility with zero downtime. Built with a powerful motor for increased speed and power, the lithium-ion battery delivers up to 2 hours of runtime. Equipped with a close-cutting, precision T-blade, the Galaxy edition Slimline Pro Trimmer embodies utility and style.

The Envy Li Clipper is also a mainstay for professionals worldwide due to its taper blade that adjusts from size 000 to size 1 – perfect for creating fade and taper styles.

Exceptionally versatile, the Envy Li features a high-speed, rotary motor but is extremely lightweight and balanced for comfort behind the chair. This clipper is also equipped with a lithium-ion battery, delivering over 2 hours of nonstop runtime. The cord/cordless Envy Li shines in its new Galaxy colourway.

The limited-edition Galaxy tools feature a 1-year warranty and are available at authorised Andis® dealers and andis.com. In the UK, this stunning colourway can be purchased here.

To learn more about Andis Company, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

Innovative hair brand, OSMO, have just appointed their newest ambassador – the Glasgow born and based owner of Huncho Barbershop, Dale Mehmet. 

Dale began his barbering career 8 years ago, with his easy manner and naturally creative talent drawing him into the barbering world.

Having initially attended university after school to study art, he found the formal training restrictive and decided to leave in his final year.  After a short time in retail, he found himself drawn into the world of barbering, after a visit to his local barbers led to him being invited to shadow the owner.  Dale was hooked – he realised this was the creative buzz he’d been looking for.  

The self-taught barber built his clientele in a rented studio space before taking the jump to open his own Glasgow barbershop, Huncho Barbers, in 2023. 

Dale said: “I’ve been using OSMO products for most of my career, so it was a natural progression to take the range into my shop when I opened.  I’m constantly creating content for social media for my shop, and the OSMO team were excited by the work I was sharing and reached out.  It was an organic step for us both to collaborate and I’m looking forward to working closer with the team on creating more social content with OSMO.” 

Dale’s style of barbering is founded in the traditional techniques, but he likes to adapt his skills and cutting, so it’s unique to his creative style. A very busy barber, Dale balances running his shop with educating his growing team, whilst also creating social content to encourage footfall and excite his peers with his style of barbering.

OSMO Senior Brand Manager, Sinéad McLaughlin, added: “Dale is not only a great barber, but his understanding of social media is really stand out for us.  We know he’s been using our products and sharing this with his customers and followers for a long time now.  There’s lots in the pipeline with Dale and OSMO and we’re all looking forward to seeing how his ambassador role develops.”

Rascals’ Owner and Founder, Sam Bentham, has just been announced as the newest Fresha Ambassador. The #1 Salon Software for booking, analytics, payments and more, has supported Sam through his journey from barber apprentice, to barbershop owner and entrepreneur. Sam spoke to BarberEVO about why he is Fresha’s #1 fan.

“I mean, I’ve been using Fresha before it was called Fresha,” chuckled Sam Bentham. “It just feels pretty full circle to be a Fresha Ambassador now.”

Sam is the owner and founder of the Newcastle barbershops Rascals, haircare line of the same name – and the newly announced Fresha Ambassador. Sam set up his urban city-scape style barbershop in Newcastle in 2018 and Rascals’ second location at the end of 2023 – Sam feels like his career has catapulted. Whilst this type of constant career evolution would bring some people a certain degree of stress, Sam told us he “loves it.”

Smiling, Sam said: “It’s funny, Fresha has been with me throughout my career. When I was just starting out, I got involved with Fresha because it was free, at the time. I’ve stuck with it for the entire time I’ve owned Rascals because it’s just so user-friendly. For me, it’s the perfect application – having two locations; with any other service, I would have to have two subscriptions. With Fresha, I’m able to integrate both stores into the one app. Having access to information about everything going on in my barbershops – from my stock levels to my staff’s commission – on one app, it’s made everything go so much smoother.”

The barber and entrepreneur, who is originally from North Tyneside in Newcastle, spoke to us whilst in the middle of a move to Manchester. While telling us about his plans to leave his barbershops in a managerial capacity, to set up a studio in the Rainy City and focus on creating digital barbering content, he noted that this is where Fresha comes in handy.

He said: “I have an amazing team at both Rascals stores, but I know that because they are such busy stores, the load will sometimes get overwhelming. It’s great to know that even if I’ll be away from the stores, I’ll be able to take on some of that weight. One of my favourite features on Fresha, is the add-on called Team Pay. I’m able to monitor the attendance and hours worked with the clocking in and out time sheets. I can track their commission, wages and tips – and pay it out. All from the app – wherever I am. Before Team Pay was developed, I used to have to sit on a Saturday afternoon and work everything out myself. So, it’s really allowed me to maximise my time and focus on different branches of my career.”

“I mean, there’s a greater benefit to it too, for owners. Before this feature came out, I used to have all of this money paid into my business account and send it out from there, which meant I was taxed on it all. With Fresha, because it’s all paid out via them and the business wallet feature, I’ve ended up saving nearly half my VAT bill, which I can then reinvest into my business,” Sam said.

The young creative, whilst “always having a business mindset,” didn’t always have the barbering bug – but it seemed there was always something trying to reel him in. When he was a child, Sam’s mum worked in a hairdresser – where Sam admittedly “loved the sound of the hair being cut.” After leaving high school, Sam studied Aerospace Engineering at college. Only lasting a year, he dropped out with no clear plan. With more free time on his hands, Sam began modelling hairstyles for his friend, who was undertaking a hairdresser apprenticeship. Fascinated by the colors and styles, Sam decided to make the move into the barbering world.

Sam said: “As soon as I figured out that I was going to give barbering a go, I knew I wanted to have my own shop. I’m someone who likes to do it my own way. When I was working for other barbers, I would always observe their space and visualise what I’d do with it. It’s the same with Rascals hair products. I’d be styling people’s hair and thinking about what ingredient could enhance the formula – even how I could make the packaging look better. So, I knew I had to start it up.”

The entrepreneur notes that launching the Rascals range in the summer of 2023 is one of two “real career highlights,” which reminds him of “just how far” he has come. Opening his second location of Rascals soon after the launch of his product line also gave the budding businessman a huge boost.

“It was so exciting opening the second Rascals. It lets me know I’m doing something right,” Sam nodded, before continuing. “I’m trying to do something different at Rascals. I’m trying to create something that is in between a barbershop and a salon. So, I use a lot of scissor work with a super in-depth consultation. I don’t want it to be your typical barbershop.”

Sam acknowledges that for some clients, this new-wave style of barbershop can feel intimidating. At Rascals, he makes it a priority to have his clients feel comfortable from the get-go.

“It’s about being greeted with a smile,” he said. “It’s about making the effort to give your client that good quality advice, to ensure your client feels listened to. I believe that’s one of the reasons we have such great customer retention rates. We’re able to focus on the service and really engage – a lot of that is because we have Fresha to deal with those important, but honestly, time-consuming tasks. We’re able to create that service that keeps our customers coming back.”

Generation Barber is set to return to Bournemouth on May 20th, 2024. Following the success of the 2023 show, Generation Barber will return bigger and better than before.

Aimed specifically for barbering students, Generation Barber, sponsored by Denman International brings together barbers, students and educators from across the UK for a day filled with education, inspiration and networking.

With education from leading barbering educators and influencers including the Great British Barbering Academy Team, Afro Hair Champion Grim Barber, Andis UK Education Team Lead, Baldy, and the organiser himself, Mike Taylor, this year’s schedule has it all.

For the first time, Generation Barber will also include demonstrations from barbers who started their own businesses in their 20’s. Dubbed the ‘Young Guns’, this performance is the perfect opportunity to inspire the new generation of barbers into thinking not only about their practical skills but also the whole package of what it takes to be a successful barber.

Alongside the incredible line-up, Generation Barber also allows students and barbers to get up close and personal with leading professionals in the Help and Advice Centres, situated in the main hall throughout the day. From advice on how to maintain your clippers to help on how to get that crispy fade, if you have any specific questions that need a more 1:2:1 response, the educators will be there throughout the day to help.

Due to the huge success from last year the Student Competition will also be returning. This is an incredible opportunity for learners currently working towards a formally accredited level 2 or 3 qualification to have a platform to showcase their skills.

There are two categories to choose from; either Classic or Creative, and the first round is judged by photographic entry. Get through to the final and you will see your work showcased around the Generation Barber Hall and on the big screen on stage. However, there can only be one lucky winner from each category who will go on to win a selection of goodies from Generation Barber Student Competition sponsor, Denman International and show supporter, Andis.

International Creative Director, Mark Hayes, will be leading the iconic Sassoon team at exciting new hair festival, HairCon which is taking place between the 22^nd and 24^th of June in the iconic O2 Victoria Warehouse in Manchester.

For over 40 years, Mark Hayes has been inspiring hairdressers at Sassoon with his passionate approach to hair and his technical expertise. Mark’s signature pared-down style, which reflects his love of modernist art and architecture, puts him at the forefront of global hair design. His role as International Creative Director takes him all over the world coaching, teaching and inspiring.

Beginning his 40-plus-year love affair with hair as an apprentice at the busy Sassoon Salon on South Molton Street, London in 1977, Mark’s yearly schedule now revolves around developing the seasonal collections and leading the worldwide demand for Sassoon Hair Design. He remains as excited today, as he was on his first day in 1977.  He said: “I take great pride in continuing the Sassoon legacy and now actively help to mould the company. I have the opportunity to create an energy and passion for hair in those around me.  My goal is to give more people more creative opportunities, more of the time.  It has been an incredible journey so far”.

 Mark and Sassoon will join an extraordinary line-up including Richard Ashforth’s Noise, Saco, Jack & the Wolfe, Heffy, SLK Bleach, Sally & Jamie Brooks, Desmond Murray and Errol Douglas along with the legendary barber heroes Alan Beak and Cal Newsome to name but a few. Prepare for your perceptions of both the industry and your business to be completely transformed by a spectacular line-up of global icons and immersive stage sessions, which will in equal parts inspire and revitalise your passion.

The event is a collision of artistry, aimed at igniting genuine connections within the hair industry. For hair professionals from across the globe, it’s time to get ready for a game-changing experience where you can immerse yourselves in a world of creativity, inspiration, and innovation. Whether you’re a salon, home salon or barbershop owner, a stylist and apprentice or a colourist (and everyone in between); you can expect HairCon to offer you the opportunity to challenge the equilibrium. 

HairCon is supported by an epic collaboration of industry titans including the Fellowship for British Hairdressing, Great Lengths, yuv ®, Diva Pro, Vagaro, DENSE, Design Essentials.Collaborators include Olaplex, Phorest, Ergo, Calligraphy Cut, Blonde Solutions, Tondeo, Novo Cabelo, Zen, K18, Comfortel and Glowwa.

Join Mark and more at HairCon 2024 for the best in global artistry and connection. Be inspired, get connected and join HairCon in leading the way into the future of the industry. 

For more information, please visit www.haircon.co.uk to find out how you can get involved.

The new clipper offers professionals unparalleled versatility, with optional cordless freedom and a powerful performance.

The leading manufacturer of handheld barbering goods, Andis Company, has announced the launch of their new, heavy-duty eMERGE™ Clipper for barbers. The new tool by Andis, who also deliver powerful education for professionals, features a powerful motor to cut all hair types and a detachable blade system compatible with all Andis ultraEDGE® and ceramicEDGE® blades – designed to deliver the ultimate clipping versatility to create precision cuts.

Fitted with an Andis ceramicEdge size 000 Blade, the eMERGE™ Clipper’s detachable blade provides users with the flexibility to change to optional blades in seconds, so barbers can achieve the correct cut length for the desired style. The clipper additionally offers a blade lock feature for added blade security. 

“Designed for busy barbers, our new eMERGE™ Detachable Blade Clipper delivers the power, speed and ergonomics to make high-volume clipper cutting easier,” said Matt K. Andis, Co-CEO of Andis® Company. “Its powerful rotary motor glides effortlessly through every hair type – wet or dry. Plus, its cord/cordless flexibility means the eMERGE™ is always ready behind the chair.”

The innovative design, which gives you the ability to go cordless, means you can keep on clipping even if you forget to charge the battery. This is in part due to the clipper’s high-speed, high-torque motor which runs at 3,800 strokes per minute. The motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery for up to 1.5-hours of run time and includes an LED battery indicator that lets you know when to charge. The ergonomic design that offers a contoured shape with finger grooves, provides barbers with a comfortable and manageable experience.

The eMERGE™ Detachable Blade Clipper features a one-year warranty and includes:

• ceramicEDGE® Size 000 Blade
• Power Supply Adapter & Cord
• Blade Brush
• ¼ Oz Oil Tube
• Replacement Quad Drive

SRP: $305.99 USD

To purchase the eMERGE™ Clipper, visit www.andis.com and authorized Andis dealers. For more information on Andis® Company, follow them on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook.