We interviewed Pat, an all-around legend killing it in the Ipswich, Queensland Barber scene. We bring you a bloody honest chat about inspiration, style, Australian trends, what motivates him about his craft, business, and of course, how can we not talk about Hippos.
What inspired you to become a barber, and open up The Bearded Hippo Barbershop?
After 17 years in the concrete game, I needed to make a change, physically and mentally. I still needed a creative outlet though. Being a part of both the tattoo culture and car culture, I saw Barbering as a perfect fit for myself, my interests, and my values. At 33 I took a chance at a career change, as an oldie amongst the youth, and at 39, here we are.
Pat, we think your branding is on point, can you tell us how you came up with your business name?
The Bearded Hippo was a moniker I gave myself when I first entered the game. I'm a heftier guy, who had a big beard and Hippos are my favourite animal, it fit lol. When I decided to go out on my own, we tossed up a few ideas but decided on the Bearded Hippo because it was reminiscent of a Cooler time, when businesses had personality and an image, like the Pink Flamingo. That's what I wanted to extend on and represent.
What are the current trends in Australian men's grooming you're most excited about?
In all honesty, I'm kinda old-school with how I cut and run a business. I wouldn't say I'm an old head but I'm not into all the flippy cutting stuff or enhancements haha. Might sound like I'm making excuses but it's just how I feel. I love a beautiful fade, taper, or burst, a gangster slick back, or a killer beard. That being said, the new generation of young barbers are beyond creative, and some of the things being done are fuc*n impressive.
Where do you find your inspiration?
My inspiration to be who I am and what I do, starts at home, the support to keep going even in harder times is my kids and lady. Without that initial inspiration, I wouldn't have made the career change, let alone have the shop.
Pat, can you tell us what are some of the biggest challenges you face as a professional barber, or business owner? How do you push through these?
I guess the biggest challenge for both is making people happy. As a barber, we are artists and art is subjective. You may believe that the haircut you gave that dude is a masterpiece, but he may deem it as average. You can have the mentality, in that you are going to give every person the most bangin haircut they've ever had, but in reality, that may not be the case at all. Now don't spin it and think I'm making excuses for chop shops, I'm talking about legit, talented shops. There just may be something the customer feels is lacking. Making sure you are doing your best 100 percent every time is the best you can do and the challenge is making that so.
How do you tailor the barbering experience for each of your clients?
Conversation is key.
Finding basics like how their day is or their plans for the weekend is a good start and you go from there. Having people know you care is important. I will say talking is good but listening is better.
What advice do you have for keen Barbers looking to enter the industry or level up their skills?
There's so much to learn from old heads, the guys not on Instagram, the old guy who's been cutting his whole life. Yes listen to all the new stuff 100% but don't laugh at the old school. A perfect Comb Over says a lot.
Learn the classics.
I will say also, don't do it for money, do it because you love it.
What is one thing you LOVE about your craft?
The one thing I love about this job is giving the kids confidence, especially the nerdier ones haha. I was one of those kids too, I know how hard it is to fit in as a young fella, and doing what I can to make that kid feel cool at school is right up there.
What is your favourite quote, something you live by?
My tombstone will read....
"It's easier to ask for forgiveness, than permission"
Check out more work from Pat and his crew over on the Gram at @thebeardedhippobarbershop