Secrets of a Master Barber

We sat down recently with one of our Master Barbers, Ozzie, to discuss his journey and craft. Watch the video to learn Ozzie’s secrets of barbering.

On the Legacy Behind His Craft:

My great-grandfather was a barber in Jamaica. Had his own shop, made his own products… Barbering is in my DNA.

On Mastering An Art:

There are a lot of artists in my family. Whether it be drawing or culinary… My grandmother traveled to Paris to learn more about the baking craft… I think if you have a passion for something, you can take it as far as you want. But I feel like my art is barbering, that is my art form.

On What Makes A Master Barber:

No matter who comes in and sits in the barber chair, being able to do any haircut, hairstyle, and hair type, all while also being able to give them an elevated service is imperative in perfecting your craft. From when I was young, I could remember standing outside the barbershop, and by just looking in at someone’s haircut when the left the chair, I could determine which barber had cut their hair. I didn’t want to get into that robotic style of cutting. Part of the art of haircutting is mixing the old with the new and always being able to adapt. You have to be flexible to any client that sits in your chair. Whether they want a classic look, old-school, or something new and trendy. The best feedback I get is when I’m finished with a cut and their response is: ‘You were right, there’s an art to this.’ That’s what a great haircut can really do, it makes a person look good, but also feel the best about themselves.

On What Barbering and Gardening Have In Common:

I’m very meticulous in barbering but that has transferred into everything I do, especially my lawn. It’s like a big haircut to me and I spend hours to get it right, from edging it, utilizing all the tools, I’m a perfectionist.

On The Secret To The Art:

Attention to detail is key. Every hair matters. Whether it be a nice blend, or a fade, you might be manipulating that same spot, layering it up, to get the perfect look and shape. Attention to detail, that’s really what it’s about. We at The Art of Shaving have broken down shaving to a science, and I think it’s my job to add that art to it.

Visit our Master Barbers Near You. Bring the barber barbershop home with The 4 Elements of the Perfect Shave, our hair styling line, or our beard shop.