Ray Tsuji, Dave Lamoureux, Iain MacKelworth, Julian MacKelworth and Ryan Lewis “old school at heart, but modern for style.” Young men are partial to popular styles like fades and side parts, which are reminiscent of the 1930s short back and sides cut. Iain says anything goes these days; there are no standard haircuts in a day’s work. Iain recalls his father telling him the only time the demand for barbers slumped was in the 1970s when long hair and beards were at the height of fashion. Ryan adds, “Barbering is very trendy right now.” Maintaining a style requires a cut approximately every six weeks, and Steveston Barbers strives to keep prices affordable.
It’s walk in business only at Steveston Barbers and it is common to see line-ups form on busy Saturdays. Only haircuts are offered, as they simply don’t have the space for extra services. A visit to Steveston Barbers is also a social affair. The shop’s chairs face the centre of the room so customers can see each other. Plenty of discussions unfold, ranging from sports and politics to swapping information and networking.
“We make sure men walk out of here feeling like a million bucks.” Ryan Lewis
Over time the eclectic décor has evolved with customers donating sports banners, cameras and beer bottles. Ryan points out that trades have been made if there is a particular piece of memorabilia that catches someone’s eye. They acknowledge the additional generous donations made to the barbershop by their friends at Steveston Tattoo Company.
Their clientele is as diverse as the cuts offered. Iain says, “Every cross section of age and stage of life comes through here, from baby’s first haircut to centenarians.” Iain points out if a customer has reached the age of 100 the cut is on the house. He mentions, “It is common to see three generations of customers get their hair cut here.”
“We love being part of this community. We connect with so many people and businesses and for that we feel very grateful.” Iain MacKelworth
August - September 2017
www.StevestonInsider.com
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