You've got clients who've followed you through multiple shops for 8, 9, even 10+ years. What do you think it is about the experience you create that keeps people coming back no matter where you set up shop? - I think it comes down to trust. A haircut is personal — guys are trusting me with how they show up in the world. Once you build that trust, my location doesn’t matter. They’re coming back because of the relationship we have. I know their kids, their job changes, what they like and don’t like about their hair without them having to explain it every time. That’s not something you find by walking into a random shop."
Queen City Barber is finally your own place. What was it like building a shop that's truly yours, and what do you want people to feel the moment they walk in? - "Honestly, it’s comforting. After years of cutting in other shops — I made every decision, from the chair, lighting, art on the walls, music and how it feels when you walk in. I want people to feel relaxed and comfortable when they’re here. Not rushed, not just a number in a chair — like they’re in a place that was built with them in mind."
A lot of guys just want a quick cut, but your regulars talk about the conversation and the vibe just as much as the haircut itself. How do you think about the barber chair as more than just a haircut? - "A lot of guys don’t have a place where they can just talk — no agenda, no judgment. My chair is that place. I’ve heard about promotions, breakups, new babies, vacations, hard days at work etc My job is to give a great cut, but it’s also to be present and listen for whatever that time turns into. That’s the real service."
Consistency comes up in almost every review you get. What's your process for making sure a client gets the exact same great cut every single time, even years apart? - "I remember a lot of what they would never even think about, but it’s also muscle memory and paying attention. I study a guy’s head shape and hair pattern every time they’re in the chair and after that it’s about replicating what worked, not reinventing it every visit unless they ask for a change."
Beard trims get a special shoutout from your clients. What's one tip you'd give guys at home for keeping their beard looking sharp between visits? - "Less is more! Most guys try to reshape it completely if they see a couple hairs out of place. They go crazy on it and all of a sudden they have to shave their beard off, instantly regretting the last 10/15 mins in the bathroom!"
After all these years and all these shops, how has being part of the Denver community shaped who you are as a barber, and what does it mean to finally plant your flag here? - Denver’s given me everything — my home, my clients, my reputation, my craft. This city grew and changed with me through every shop I’ve worked out of, other barbers and hairstylists I’ve learned from and now I get to give something back that is uniquely me. Queen City Barber is a thank-you to the city that is home.