Going to a barbershop can be just about getting a quick haircut. Or it can be a positive experience that keeps clients continually coming back to the comfort of your chair! How are you going to step up your game and compete with other shops? It starts at the very beginning; with the look, feel, and theme of your space.
SEARCH FOR INSPIRATION FOR YOUR BARBERSHOP THEME
Start with an online search for barbershops to get some ideas and inspiration. This will give you a good sense of what’s already out there. Who’s doing what? Are they crushing it or missing the mark completely? Do an image search to see what paint colors, décor, chairs, and layouts other barbershops use. Flip through barbershop supply catalogues and scroll through websites. Grab the good ideas, but be careful not to be a copycat. You want to provide your clients with a unique experience they won’t get anywhere else.
PICK A BARBERSHOP THEME YOU LIKE
What do you like? What do you hate? It’s your space so it has to be your personality. Find great ideas that work for you. Lots of wood and planks? Or chrome and glass? If you’re not a movie buff, don’t decorate the barbershop in film posters and film rolls. Just because it looks good doesn’t mean it looks good to you. You are the one who has to watch decor every day, so you don’t want a theme that you can’t stand on. You will change it too soon, which can cost you time and money. Instead, use a theme that’s right for you. It will make you smile and it can be a great conversation starter with your customers.
LOOK AT THE LOCAL BARBERSHOP COMPETITION
What do barbers in other regions look like? Check out online, or better yet, visit some of the stores in person to get a taste of their vibe. This will give you an idea of what topics you might want to avoid. For example, if most local barbers use a vintage theme, you might want to use a sports theme or cyclist to stand out from the crowd. Don’t mix when you want to stand out!
CONSIDER YOUR BARBERSHOP LOCATION AND CLIENTELE
What is your area known for? Is your barbershop located near a sports stadium or a music museum? Are you in an area known for aviation or presidential history? What’s popular in your community? Country music? Street art? Take your clients’ interests and demographics, as well as your location, into consideration. You never know—the perfect theme could be found in your own backyard.
INCORPORATE YOUR BARBERSHOP THEME INTO YOUR MARKETING
Don’t forget that your theme doesn’t begin and end in your barbershop. Your business cards, social media accounts, and website should all reflect your theme, which is also part of how you promote yourself as a barber. Your business is recognized through its branding, so choose something unique and memorable.