Hi! My name is Ethan Reed, and I’m 35 years old. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been captivated by the art of barbering. Growing up in Marlow, Oklahoma, I spent countless hours at the local barbershop with my grandfather, Henry. Those visits were more than just haircuts; they were experiences filled with stories, laughter, and a sense of community. It was there, in that old-fashioned shop, that I discovered my passion.
At ten, my grandfather gave me my first set of clippers. I was ecstatic and couldn’t wait to start practicing. My younger brother and some brave neighborhood kids were my first ‘clients.’ Sure, there were some uneven cuts and a few mishaps, but every snip and buzz made me fall more in love with the craft. I watched tutorial videos, read books, and spent as much time as possible hanging out at the local barbershop, soaking in every bit of knowledge from the experienced barbers there.
High school was when things started to get serious for me. I’d rush home after school to cut hair in our garage. Friends, family, and even some teachers became regulars. My passion was evident, and it wasn’t long before the barbers in town took notice. They let me help out around the shop, and before I knew it, I was cutting hair in a corner of the shop under their watchful eyes. The mentorship I received was invaluable, and I cherished every moment.
After graduating high school, I knew exactly what I wanted to do. I enrolled in a barber school in Oklahoma City. The training was intense, but I loved every second of it. I learned advanced cutting techniques, styling, and the importance of customer service. My passion and dedication paid off, and I graduated at the top of my class.
Returning to Marlow, I joined the barbershop that had inspired me all those years ago. Working there was a dream come true. I brought new techniques and ideas, blending them with the traditional styles that the shop was known for. The community embraced me, and my clientele grew rapidly. Every day, I looked forward to the conversations, the stories, and the satisfaction of transforming someone’s look.
But I didn’t stop there. I wanted to experience more and push my boundaries. I started attending barbering conventions and competitions across the country. These events were eye-opening. I met barbers from all walks of life, each with their own unique style and story. I participated in cutting contests, winning several awards and gaining recognition in the barbering community. These experiences fueled my ambition and broadened my horizons.
One of the most significant milestones in my career was opening my own barbershop, “Precision Cuts.” It was a blend of modern and classic, a place where everyone felt welcome. The journey wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. I wanted to create a space where young barbers could learn and grow, just as I had. Mentoring upcoming talent became a passion of mine, and seeing them succeed brought me immense joy.
Looking back, I realize how far I’ve come from that young boy with a pair of clippers. My journey has been filled with hard work, dedication, and an unyielding passion for barbering. I’ve worked in various cities, including Dallas and New York, each experience adding a new layer to my skills and perspective. But no matter where I went, the sense of community and the joy of making someone feel confident and happy remained the core of my work.
Today, I continue to push the boundaries of my craft, always learning and evolving. I’m proud of my journey and excited for what the future holds. Barbering is more than just a job for me; it’s a lifelong passion that has shaped who I am. And every day, as I pick up my clippers, I’m reminded of the young boy in Marlow who dreamed of creating the perfect haircut.
Creating this blog is my way of giving back to the community that has supported me throughout my journey. I’ve always believed that barbering is more than just cutting hair—it’s about sharing knowledge and helping others look and feel their best. With this blog, I aim to review and recommend the best care products for men, drawing from my years of experience in the industry. I want to provide honest, insightful reviews that help men make informed decisions about their grooming routines. Whether it’s the latest hair pomade, beard oil, or skincare product, my goal is to guide my readers towards products that truly deliver results, enhancing their personal grooming and boosting their confidence.