Live with Charity and Emanuel!

In 2025 there’s no choice but to be a business savvy barber – and the business savvy barber uses Vagaro. With over 85,000 businesses already working with the platform, engaging with the tool to grow enterprises, boost innovation and make the daily running of their business go smoothly.  

Towards the end of last year, we at BarberEVO began our collaboration with Vagaro to create a series of Instagram Lives that gets into the nitty gritty of the barbering business. In the first edition of the series, SalonEVO & BarberEVO Editor, Jennifer Paxton, was joined by Vagaro CMO Charity Hudnall and lead technical trainer, Emanuel Nevarez. The trio of industry experts sat down to discuss the all-important question… Are business savvy barbers underrated?  

“Well, first off, the barber industry itself, I feel, is underrated, right?” Charity said. “Barbers in general, they’re a necessity. Not only that there is such a rich culture and history behind it all – it’s a community. So, barbers are thriving. Additionally, I’ve been watching barbers over the years and the business savvy is just amazing. It’s more than just the legacy, the history, and the culture – the marketing component that barbers are able to now do, especially through software like Vagaro, it’s insane.” 

For Charity – marketing is key to great business, and a huge part of marketing is understanding your market! In 2025, clients want that one stop shop – which is where Vagaro can give you a helping hand.  

Emanuel said: “When I’m working with businesses, I first identify what business stage they’re in. And for barber shops, it starts with just building that professionalism that they need. They’re usually ready to take that next step. It’s about looking at who your audience is and who you are, whilst trying to market towards your ideal demographic. The more you can start being strategic about how you target them, the more success you’ll find.” 

Find this, even more, and the answer to the question… ‘Are Business Savvy Barbers Underrated?’ in the full live down below.  

National Hat Day is here, and Lids and Sport Clips are celebrating in style with an exciting competition! To mark the occasion, they’re offering the chance to win a free hat—and not just any hat! Fans won’t want to miss out!

Introducing the Clear Hat

The first-ever fully-clear hat—a groundbreaking innovation that lets you wear a hat while still showing off your fresh haircut. Finally, the perfect solution to the age-old dilemma: how to rock a hat and flaunt your hair at the same time.

Win the Clear Hat

Lids and Sport Clips are giving away 100 Clear Hats! To enter, comment on their official Instagram giveaway post before January 20th. Don’t miss your chance to snag this one-of-a-kind piece!

Exclusive In-Store Offer

From now until January 20th, head to a Lids store and sign up for the Lids Access Pass Premium. Not only will you unlock all the perks of the program, but you’ll also receive an email with a coupon for half off an MVP haircut at Sport Clips. Fresh hats and fresh haircuts—a perfect combination!

Tomoya Nishimori, the visionary founder of Mr Brother’s Cut Club, has become a celebrated figure in the global barbering community. With his distinct approach to barbering, he has not only built a brand that embodies the spirit of craftsmanship and creativity but also plays a pivotal role as an ambassador and educator for BROSH, Asia’s No.1 men’s grooming brand from Japan.

Barbering wasn’t always on the cards for Tomoya, but once he set his sights on the industry, he mastered it on a global scale. Following a chance meeting with two influential barbers in Japan, he switched from hairdressing to barbering and became the powerhouse we all know today.

“I was originally a hair stylist in Japan, but around 12 years ago I made the change to barbering, as I wasn’t happy in the job,” Tomoya explained.

“I wanted to work somewhere where I feel I could express myself within styles, and not just focus on a general cut. Around this time, Donnie Hawley, owner of Hawleywood’s Barbershop in California, came to Japan to meet Kawakami from Apache Barbershop, and I had the opportunity to meet them both.

It was because of this encounter that I felt inspired to change career paths to go into male grooming. It is something I had been wanting to do for a while, and this was my sign to take the plunge to open my own shop – and Mr Brother’s Cut Club was born!”

THE BIRTH OF A LEGEND

After its inception, Mr Brother’s Cut Club became a phenomenon. Mixing traditional Japanese styling techniques with retro American barbershop designs cemented their spot as a unique yet elevated grooming location in Tokyo.

Following this success, it’s hard to pin Tomoya down in one place – whether he’s working in the barbershop or educating across the globe with BROSH.

“My day-to-day is constantly busy,” Tomoya chuckled. “I do education almost every week, which means I am always on the road – whether that’s in Japan or across the globe.”

“There is hunger from people not just in Japan, but all over the world to expand their skill set in barbering and styling – beyond the fade,” he added.

“It’s great to spread the message of BROSH as a premium, Japanese grooming brand. People are very receptive and interested in the BROSH brand, our products, and how versatile they are. I love showing people all that you can achieve and create with these products.”

A PHOTOSHOOT WITH PURPOSE

As the cover star for this issue, Tomoya and BROSH wanted to create a photoshoot that would showcase the duality of Japan’s cultural landscape, and in turn, the duality of BROSH as a traditional barbering brand with urban roots.

When you think of Tokyo, your mind will go from ultramodern, neon skyscrapers to historic temples and cherry blossoms.

“We highlighted two different locations within this shoot as a way to represent Japan to the world in a meaningful way, as well as to represent myself and my lifestyle,” Tomoya explained.

“The neon signs and vibrant nightlife of Kabukicho showcase my lifestyle because I enjoy the moments I’m not working where I can find energy and inspiration to carry on.

We also chose to shoot some of the images in Asakusa – with its traditional craft shops and location near the Sensō-ji temple – which represents Japan and what my country looks like to the outside world.”

THE ROLE OF BROSH PRODUCTS

When planning the shoot, Tomoya also wanted to ensure it showcased the versatility of the BROSH products.

“I wanted to show readers that no matter what style, length, or hair type, there is always a BROSH product that will help you achieve your goals,” Tomoya enthused.

We asked Tomoya what some of his hero products were when styling for this collection.

“For the photoshoot, I always start off using the BROSH Styling Base Spray, and this is very essential to me to ensure the hair is prepped,” he explained.

“In conjunction with the spray, I also used the BROSH Feather Weight Fiber Pomade to add texture, while holding the hair in place when adding the final touches.”

PRIDE IN CRAFTSMANSHIP

There were multiple points of inspiration and motivation for Tomoya during this process, but pride was a central feeling.

“Not only do I want to highlight BROSH and my own barbering skills, but I want to show the world how skilled Japanese barbers actually are,” he told us.

“I am very proud that Japan is known for producing highly skilled barbers and high-quality products, so I want to ensure that this opportunity reflects that too.”

Each year, Keller international offer one lucky – and, indeed, deserving – student the Keller International Scholarship. This year, the winner of the scholarship is Russell Maidlow. The barber, from the barbershop Allied Barber & Supply in Davenport, Iowa, has had a life wrought with difficulty – but has proved that, through resilience and a genuine passion, you can make it through the other side.

Keller said: “We are proud to announce Russell as the recipient of this year’s Keller International Scholarship! Russell’s passion for barbering began at the young age of twelve, when he first walked into a barbershop and was captivated by the artistry and talent he witnessed. This early experience inspired him to pursue a career in barbering, where he hopes to blend his creative skills with his desire to help others.”

We caught up with Russell to learn how the scholarship has changed his life. The barber told us that when he received the scholarship – he was facing many hardships, including family illness mental health issues and financial strain.

“This was an incredibly difficult period – trying to pay attention at school, keep my shop open, and monthly doctor visits for my wife has made this probably one of the hardest things I’ve ever done… and my life has by no means been easy,” Russell told us.

Despite facing mental health challenges throughout his life, Russell has used these experiences to shape his understanding of the importance of mental wellbeing and self-care. In addition to his love for creating handmade soaps, Russell now wants to take his artistic side further by honing his craft as a barber, not only to make his clients look great but to offer them a safe, supportive space where they can feel comfortable discussing their personal challenges. Keller International told us more about Russell’s plans, explaining: “Russell’s goal is to build a barbershop that is more than just a place for haircuts; he envisions it as a holistic space where clients can care for both their image and their mental health. By sharing his own journey, he hopes to create an environment where people can feel heard, supported, and uplifted. We are incredibly inspired by Russell’s vision and dedication to combining artistry with empathy. Congratulations, Russell!”.

The latest issue of BarberEVO is OUT NOW!

Happy New Year! Welcome to the first issue of BarberEVO in 2025 – here we have a magazine fill to the brim with the latest tips, techniques, and advice to help you get the ball rolling and nail the new year. Whether you’re looking to refresh your barbershop, you’ll find inspiration in our Interiors feature, or in need of some goal setting or pricing advice, you’ll find some guidance in our Business feature. Let’s kick January off with a bang and start the new year on the right track!

COVER STAR: Tomoya Nishimori

This edition, our Cover Star and Barber of the Edition is the globally renowned barber Tomoya Nishimori. He is the mastermind behind the iconic Mr Brother’s Cut Club, and global educator and ambassador for the premium Japanese grooming brand, BROSH. In this feature, we delve into the backstory of Tomoya and find out exactly how he became the barber that we all know and respect today – as well as hearing about his passion for BROSH and showcasing the talent of the Japanese barbering industry.

EVENTS

Kicking off all thing’s events, we hear from Andy Dawson who was recently involved in the opening of the brand-new Footasylum store in Aberdeen’s Union Square shopping centre. Elsewhere, we dive into the roaring success of EVO On The Road: Glasgow edition – the sold-out event was not to be missed! BarberEVO was also lucky enough to attend the MR. Barbers annual award ceremony and see the excitement firsthand. And who could forget about the Fellowship’s Luncheon and Awards at The Londoner Hotel – we have it all covered here!

NEW YEAR

Bringing in the new year, we hear from Luke James Dolan who won the coveted title of Wahl’s British Barber of the Year for 2024. We speak to four of the best and brightest barbers about their goals for the new year ahead, and our columnist Alan Beak shares his tips for goal setting for the year ahead. Columnist Vikki Harrison-Smith showcases one of her brightest stars from the SB Barber Academy, and Rob Wood from Novo Cabelo reflects on the monumental year he had in 2024, while Andy Dawson of SIGMA Male Image shares his accomplishments, and offers advice on how you can achieve your goals.

INTERIORS

Here, we take a deep dive into the chilled oasis that is Folk. and hear from owners Jordan Coubrough and Sean Dick about how they created the relaxed, yet elevated, space. Elsewhere, we hear from Mustafa Ismail, owner of R.W. Wolf Barbers, who took home the impressive accolade of Wahl’s British Barbershop of the Year 2024 to find out about their trend-setting design inspiration. Vikki Harrison-Smith and Graeme Macaskill share the results of Daylight Company in their barbershops, and we spotlight Mari de Monte’s Manhattan based barbershop Low Ear.

BUSINESS

REM UK have been at the forefront of innovation for decades, and the BarberEVO were lucky enough to get a behind-the-scenes tour of the factory to see where the magic happens. One of BarberEVO’s newest columnists Graeme Macaskill talks us through how to rise prices in the new year, while the NHBF break down the first budget from the Labour Government and how that will affect you.

PRODUCT FOCUS: Haircare

Barbering isn’t all about haircuts, it’s also about helping your clients care for their hair. Starting this feature off strong, we hear from Ryan Lewis, owner of Club13 in Hull and STMNT Grooming Goods ambassador, about his go-to haircare tips and tricks for clients. Columnist Hayden Cassidy shared how you can care for your hair away from the barbershop, while Mark Maciver talked about the need for conversations around hair-loss, and Olivier Mathis went through his beard care routine with The Bluebeards Revenge.

Vagaro Enhances E-Commerce Capabilities with Introduction of Product Variants

Vagaro, the leading software for businesses in beauty, wellness, and fitness, has announced the launch of its new Product Variants feature, offering businesses even greater flexibility in managing their retail sales all in one place.

The new feature allows businesses to easily manage product variations, such as different sizes, shapes, or colors, by simply indicating these details in a dropdown menu. This eliminates the need to enter each variant as a standalone product, simplifying the inventory process. Additionally, users can manage essential product details such as ingredients, instructions, and size guides, all from one centralized page.

The launch reflects Vagaro’s commitment to being a comprehensive, all-in-one solution for beauty business owners. Industry data shows that retail sales contribute between 15-40% of revenue in the beauty industry. With the addition of product variants, users can maximize these product sales directly from their Vagaro account.

“Beauty & wellness professionals know that time is money. Our product variants feature will give some of that time back while also helping them improve their retail sales; enhancing their revenue in more ways than one,” says Vagaro CMO, Charity Hudnall.

Businesses can efficiently manage and sync their entire online inventory without the need to dedicate excessive time to stocking or updating multiple platforms. Vagaro AI also offers businesses the ability to craft product descriptions and details quickly, further enhancing the efficiency and professionalism of their online stores, especially when used in combination with product variants.

In Conclusion: The addition of product variants streamlines the retail experience for beauty professionals, enabling them to manage their inventory and product details with ease. With this new feature, Vagaro continues to help businesses grow by simplifying complex tasks and enhancing revenue potential.

For more information on how product variants can help businesses thrive, visit Vagaro.

When it comes to precision styling, the right clipper makes all the difference. GA.MA Professional, the global hair tool leader, is excited to announce the launch of their new Lumine Beetle Clipper. Small in size but packed with all the features of a larger trimmer, this compact powerhouse is the perfect choice for detailed work like finishing touches, intricate designs and precision cuts.

Designed with both ergonomics and durability in mind, the Lumine Beetle Clipper (Price: $47.20) is ideal for stylists who need accuracy without sacrificing performance. With a 6000 RPM motor, it effortlessly delivers professional-grade results, whether you’re perfecting a sharp fade design, refining edges around the ears, beard, or sideburns or tidying up the nape. Its lightweight beetle-inspired design prioritizes safety, enhances productivity and allows for faster work to keep up with the fast pace of salons and barbershops.

What sets the Lumine Beetle Clipper apart is its Professional Sintered Blades. These blades blend the durability of forged steel with the lightweight feel of synthetic materials, created through a cutting-edge sintering process. This advanced technique fuses metal powders into a corrosion-resistant structure that’s built to thrive in wet environments like salons. The result is a blade that’s as reliable as it is precise.

Additional Features:

• Cord: Professional Cord/Cordless
• Additional Professional Sintered Blade Included
• Battery: Lithium Battery
• Autonomy: 90 min.
• Hanging Hook
• Minimum Cut: 0.3 mm

For added convenience, the clipper includes three comb attachments (1.5 mm, 2 mm and 3 mm), perfect for tackling a variety of hairstyles and fade techniques. Whether you’re working in a salon or on the go, this compact tool can even easily slip right into your pocket, delivering pro-level results wherever your styling journey takes you.

With its advanced technology, ergonomic design and powerful performance, the Lumine Beetle Clipper is the ultimate creative partner. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this clipper helps unlock your potential and keep your work sharp, precise and inspired.

The Lumine Beetle Clipper will be available for purchase at www.gamaprofessional.us.

Jay Millar and the awesome team at Jay’s Barber Club in Belfast ran a cuta’thon for charity at the Head Office of Denman International on December 18, 2024.

The team took time out of the hectic pre-Christmas rush to devote three hours to cutting the hair of up to 25 staff members and ALL proceeds went to Haircuts for Homeless.

“Haircuts for Homeless is one of our chosen charities and when the opportunity arose to raise money through the cuta’thon we were incredibly grateful to Jay and his team for stepping in. The staff loved having the convenience and novelty of getting a cut and finish without even leaving the premises,” Maria Stafford, Partnership Development Manager. 

Jay and the team were delighted to support this amazing charity founded by Stewart Roberts, as they are no strangers to helping the local community. Jay Millar already works tirelessly to promote mental health awareness and donates his time and services to those struggling with homelessness.

The Denman team is now all set for a handsome Christmas!

Vagaro Launches Connect App to Enhance Real-Time Communication for Businesses and Clients

In today’s fast-paced business environment, effective communication is more important than ever. Vagaro has introduced Vagaro Connect, a two-way messaging platform designed to improve communication between businesses and their clients, as well as among team members. Accessible via the Connect App or Vagaro Desktop, the app enables seamless, real-time conversations, empowering businesses to deliver a personalized experience to clients while improving team collaboration.

The dedicated business communication channel within Vagaro Connect ensures that work-related messages are kept separate from personal messages, allowing business owners to set clear boundaries. This helps improve professionalism while maintaining effective communication.

What is Vagaro Connect?

Vagaro Connect is an extension of the Vagaro Pro apps that provides an easy-to-use platform for direct messaging between clients and businesses. By enabling two-way chat for both client and team communications, Connect helps simplify the process of staying in touch, with all features fully accessible through the Vagaro Pro app on desktop and mobile. Full functionality is available with Vagaro’s text messaging (SMS) feature, making it easier to stay connected at all times.

While many business owners already communicate with clients and employees through emails or phone calls, Vagaro Connect offers a more streamlined and efficient solution. Unlike traditional methods, Connect enables real-time, personalized communication that’s more efficient and easier to track.

Turn Conversations into Conversions

In addition to facilitating communication, Vagaro Connect helps businesses convert positive client interactions into booked appointments or upsell opportunities. When communicating with clients through the app, business owners can send appointment links directly to their calendars, allowing clients to book services on the spot. The integration with the Vagaro Calendar makes it easy to send clients links that go straight into a service provider’s schedule, ensuring that every interaction has the potential to turn into revenue.

This seamless integration between chat and scheduling simplifies the booking process for clients and helps businesses secure revenue quickly. The combination of fast response times, personalized service, and easy scheduling ultimately enhances the customer experience and boosts the likelihood of repeat business.

Acquire Client Information Quickly & Easily

In today’s fast-paced environment, speed and accuracy matter. With Vagaro Connect, businesses can quickly obtain important client details through direct communication, without the need for time-consuming phone calls or emails. By enabling text messaging, businesses can immediately gather essential information, update appointment details, or request feedback, all while ensuring a personalized and efficient interaction.

The platform also includes an internal notes feature, allowing businesses to leave relevant client details within the chat history. This keeps all team members informed about a client’s preferences, upcoming appointments, and any other important information, ensuring a seamless experience for the client at every touchpoint.

Clear Communication Across Multiple Platforms

Another standout feature of Vagaro Connect is its ability to maintain consistent communication across various platforms. Clients can reach out via the Vagaro Marketplace, your Branded App, or your MySite. Once a client initiates a conversation, the message icon will appear across all platforms, so businesses can respond quickly, regardless of where they are.

Even if the conversation doesn’t proceed in one uninterrupted stream, Vagaro Connect allows businesses to pick up right where they left off, ensuring continuity and preventing any information from falling through the cracks. With access to message history and internal notes, your team can stay aligned on client interactions, no matter where they take place.

Improved Team Communication

Effective team communication is a cornerstone of any successful business. Vagaro Connect enhances internal communication by allowing team members to engage in one-on-one chats or group chats, helping managers communicate with employees about important matters, including:

• Scheduling and shift changes
• Payroll and staffing updates
• Training opportunities
• New inventory or promotions
• Daily deals or special events

In addition, Vagaro Connect syncs with employee calendars to provide a real-time view of each team member’s availability, ensuring that scheduling issues are addressed quickly. Whether it’s ensuring that a team member is free to take a client or sharing important business updates, Vagaro Connect improves operational efficiency and promotes a more informed, connected workforce.

Better Work-Life Balance

While it’s important to be available for clients and employees, it’s equally important to maintain personal boundaries. Vagaro Connect helps business owners preserve their work-life balance by keeping professional communication separate from personal messages. By using the app, business owners can respond to clients and employees when needed, without worrying about personal conversations mixing with work communications.

This not only maintains professionalism but also prevents the mix-up of private and business messages, offering a much-needed distinction between the two. By allowing business owners to manage all their communications in one place—without using personal phone numbers or email addresses—Vagaro Connect helps maintain the right balance.

Conclusion

As businesses seek more effective ways to manage client and team communications, Vagaro Connect emerges as a crucial tool. The app enhances the overall client experience, streamlines internal communication, and supports a healthy work-life balance for business owners. With its seamless integration with Vagaro’s other tools and features, Connect enables businesses to manage real-time communication more effectively and efficiently.

Businesses looking to improve communication, streamline client interactions, and enhance team collaboration can start a FREE 30-day trial of Vagaro Connect today and experience its impact firsthand.

The International Hairdressing Awards (IHA) is set to make waves in 2025 with its prestigious awards ceremony taking place on Saturday, June 21st, during the much-anticipated HairCon event at Manchester’s iconic O2 Victoria Warehouse. This exciting announcement marks a milestone collaboration between two powerhouse platforms in the hairdressing industry, promising an unparalleled experience for professionals across the globe.

This partnership unites the creative brilliance of the IHA with the vibrant networking, education, and business opportunities offered by HairCon, organised by The Assembly Events Ltd. Together, they aim to create a dynamic space that celebrates artistry, fosters innovation, and supports professional growth within the global hairdressing community.

Mikel Luzea, CEO and Founder of the International Hairdressing Awards, shared his enthusiasm for this groundbreaking partnership: “The International Hairdressing Awards are more than just accolades; they are a celebration of the artistry and passion of our industry. Partnering with HairCon allows us to expand our reach and impact, offering participants a comprehensive platform to connect, learn, and be inspired.”

Michael Dynan, CEO and Founder of The Assembly Events Ltd., echoed the excitement: “We’re thrilled to announce the prestigious International Hairdressing Awards’ UK debut exclusively at HairCon 2025! This collaboration solidifies the incredible success of our inaugural show and marks a milestone for both organisations, bringing together the world’s top talent for an extraordinary evening of recognition, followed by two unmissable days of creativity, connections, and commerce. Join us for this historic moment where the global hair community unites to celebrate excellence and shape the industry’s future.”

The 2025 IHAwards Ceremony promises an unforgettable evening of glamour, creativity, and well-deserved recognition as the industry’s brightest talents and pioneers are honoured on the global stage. Complementing the awards, HairCon will continue to captivate attendees on Sunday, June 22nd, and Monday, June 23rd, offering two days packed with dynamic content, product showcases, inspiring artistry, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

With Manchester set to become the epicenter of professional hairdressing for this extraordinary weekend, industry professionals won’t want to miss this unique opportunity to be part of history. From celebrating the very best in hairdressing to connecting with top brands and innovators, HairCon 2025 promises to elevate the global hair community like never before.

Save the date and prepare to be inspired at the ultimate hair industry event of the year!