Today we’d like to introduce you to Savage The Dapper Barber
Hi Savage, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey into barbering started with a passion for the craft and a drive to build something bigger than myself. Like many barbers, I began humbly, focusing on mastering the art of cutting hair. However, it wasn’t long before I realized that being a barber was about more than just the technical skills; it was about community, connection, and creating a memorable experience for each client.
Over the years, I not only honed my skills but also grew my vision. I wanted to build a space that represented the values I believed in—discipline, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. That’s when I opened Savage Barber Lounge, a place where clients could not only get a quality cut but feel genuinely valued.
Expanding from there, I founded 19Nineteen Grooming, a line of high-quality, handcrafted products that are safe and reliable. This brand embodies my commitment to excellence and the rugged resilience that I feel defines the lifestyle I want to promote.
More recently, I launched Talk Savage: Beyond The Clipper, a podcast that will dive deep into what it means to be a barber and explore the industry from perspectives often left out. Through candid conversations, I aim to highlight the journeys of other professionals and uncover the layers that make up the barbering world. It’ll become a platform to share wisdom, connect with others, and discuss the challenges and triumphs in our line of work.
Through it all, I’ve learned that success is about more than skill; it’s about constantly evolving, embracing challenges, and finding purpose beyond the clippers.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has certainly not been a smooth road, but ‘Nothing worth having comes easy’ has proven true for me. When I first started out, I commuted over an hour each way to barber school in California. I rode a motorcycle, which helped, but it also meant dealing with repair or maintenance challenges without any backup transportation. Eventually, I tried to transfer to a school closer to home, only to find it wasn’t VA certified, so I committed to the long drive until I graduated.
After barber school, I joined a commission barbershop where I quickly learned some hard truths. The shop owners were stealing from the barbers by ‘checking the register’ and leaving us short every time. I left after a few months and moved to a new shop, which had just opened and was still building its clientele. I learned a lot about the industry there, watching the shop grow from no walk-ins to being fully booked.
Starting over again in Florida introduced a new set of challenges. The industry was different from what I knew, and I faced everything from miscommunication to a lack of professionalism. I had one shop owner give away my station without notice, another sold the shop without informing any of us, and some even secretly charged different rents depending on the barber. I also faced challenges in trying to partner with other barbers, like one who tried to overcharge me for a share in a shop that I knew cost him less to build.
These experiences taught me a lot about the kind of barber and shop owner not to be. I’ve seen both sides of the business, from supportive mentorship to shady practices. I’m grateful for every setback, as it’s helped me build my own business on principles of transparency, integrity, and a commitment to quality. My goal is to offer a space where clients feel respected and my barbers have a genuine opportunity to grow.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My business encompasses three main ventures: Savage Barber Lounge, 19Nineteen Grooming, and my podcast Talk Savage: Beyond The Clipper. At the core, I’m a barber with a deep love for the industry. I specialize in men’s hair cutting and styling, with a reputation for delivering consistent, top-quality cuts that keep my clients coming back. I’m always striving to improve myself and my craft, and my clients know that every service I offer is grounded in high standards and dedication.
Savage Barber Lounge is a place where people can expect a premium experience—a shop that’s as much about building community and connection as it is about top-tier grooming. In addition, my product line, 19Nineteen Grooming, embodies my commitment to excellence. Crafted with high-quality, natural ingredients, my products are designed for men who value reliability and quality. It’s incredibly rewarding to see people appreciate and support 19Nineteen Grooming, especially when merchandise like our T-shirts sells out quickly. Even though we’re a grooming brand, the support for our limited merchandise releases is humbling and motivates me to maintain these high standards.
Through my podcast, Talk Savage: Beyond The Clipper, I get to share insights into the barbering world and connect with others in the industry. It’s a space where I explore the real side of barbering, from the challenges to the rewards, and discuss what it means to stay dedicated to this craft. Overall, I’m proud to say that each of these brands reflects my core values: quality, authenticity, and a relentless drive to be the best. I want readers to know that when it comes to anything I put my name on, it’s quality or nothing.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I’m always open to working with people who are serious, passionate, and knowledgeable about their craft. I want to collaborate with those who understand their own goals, value professionalism, and are genuinely committed to growth. It’s not about being rigid or formal, but rather about having a clear vision and a willingness to collaborate toward mutual success.
To connect with me, reach out on Instagram, send an email, or call my shop. You’re also welcome to come in for a haircut—during that time, you’ve got my full attention, and I’m all ears to hear about your ideas. I’ve built valuable relationships with people through social media, even without meeting in person, and I’m always up for expanding my network with like-minded individuals.
If you’re interested in supporting 19Nineteen Grooming, try out the products and share your feedback. I’m always open to hearing what people love about the line or what they’d like to see next. Supporting the brand isn’t just about using the products; it’s about being part of a journey committed to quality and excellence.
Pricing:
- Haircut $35
- Haircut w/ Beard (hot towel included) $50
- Hair, Beard, & Skin $130
Contact Info:
- Website: https://savagethedapperbarber.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savagethedapperbarber/profilecard/?igsh=MXNrdnFucGplNDFwNw==
