Getting to know: Shotgun Barbers
Posted on: 03 Aug 2017Shotgun Barbers has quickly become one of the most trendy places in Bristol to get your haircut. The men's and women's hairdressers have an amazing staff and we were lucky enough to catch up with owners John McMahon and Sam Young to see exactly how they are winning over the Bristol hair scene.
History
John started his career in the mid-90s at Fish hairdressers in Soho before moving back to the West Country where he opened his first shop 16 years ago in Cheddar called Chop Barbers. In his early days, he worked on a couple of Pulp music videos as an extra and stylist, whilst also doing magazine work for The Face DJ magazine and Paris Fashion Week. It was at Chop that Sam came on the scene working alongside John for 3 years before moving to Bristol and building himself a massive following working at Franco's Barber Shop.
The rest, as they say, is history, but here's more!
When was Shotgun Barbers set up and what are its main aims for people in Bristol?
"Shotgun Barbers was set up in 2014 by two mates John McMahon and Sam Young. Our aim is to give Bristol the best hub of hairdressers and barbers under one roof, full of energy and to create a space for our stylists to feel inspired and push their creative side in hairdressing & barbering. Also, music is a big part of Shotgun! We play and sell vinyl in both shops, with Guest DJs popping in to play. We put on music events throughout the year from up-and-coming bands to Dj nights. These will all be on our Facebook and website so make sure and follow us!
Where in Bristol are you based? Do you have plans to expand on your locations?
"We have two shops, one on Cotham Hill and our second at the back of Debenhams opposite the Bearpit. We have no real plans to expand, but would look at London next."
You also seem to be involved with the Bristol School of Barbering, can you tell us more about this?
"We are really excited to be opening our Bristol School of Barbering Academy at the start of next year, with full-time, part-time and evening courses in barbering for those that want to get into the industry. These courses will range from a three month intense course and six-month evening course through to short 1-3 day courses for those that want to learn more barbering techniques for hairdressers looking to freshens up their skills.
This will be run by fully qualified teachers from all backgrounds in barbering, from Shotgun Barbers and Chops Academy in Somerset to session stylists that have worked at the top of the industry delivering NVQ & Bristol School of Barbering diplomas. Prices and course dates will be coming soon and for any more information email Shotgunbarbers@gmail.com or phone us on 0117 973 1130."
What kind of experience do you and your staff have?
"Our staff are highly qualified with between 5 and 25 years experience on the floor. From backgrounds of Toni and Guy working in top London salons, session stylists for the Guardian, fashion shows and music videos we have a creative team."
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How have you found you time in Bristol?
"We've been received really well! Bristol is absolutely buzzing right now, and we feel totally grateful to be part of that! We love this city!!!!"
When it comes to hair products, truthfully, what would you go for yourself? What kind of products can people get from you?
"We're absolutely passionate about the products we use, and we only use the best! Baxters of California has a full range of hair and body products for men, this really is next level. We had to jump through hoops to be the only supplier in Bristol and for the ladies we use label.m. We are also looking to produce our own Shotgun product range, so keep your eyes out!"
What has been your fondest memory with Shotgun? (or perhaps in barbering altogether!)
"Fondest memory? Good question! I think it's got to be watching the business grow, with our amazing clients creating this buzz around our brand, and believing in it like we do! There is nothing more rewarding than that for us! We try not to set any silly targets, and just go with the flow!"
What advice would you give to other Bristol based barbers trying to set up shop?
"Be true to yourself!"
If you were Mayor of Bristol for a day which one thing would you change?
"The weather!"
To keep up to date with Shotgun Barbers and Bearpit Shotgun visit www.shotgunbarbers.co.uk.
Bearpit Shotgun, 20 Bond Street, Bristol, BS13LU - Call: 0117 930 0014
Bearpit Shotgun on Instagram and Facebook
Clifton Shotgun, 1a Pitville Place, Cotham Hill, Clifton, Bristol, BS6 6JZ - Call: 0117 973 1130
Clifton Shotgun on Instagram and Facebook
Article by:
Matt, originally from Belfast, has only lived in Bristol for a year now and is studying Media & Journalism at UWE. He wants to concentrate his writing and media skills in Bristol's culinary culture, delving into what fine feasts the city has to offer and where the best places to go for food really are. Along with an aspiration to interview some of the influential people shaping Bristol and some who are simply passing through, Matt really is trying to make Bristol his new home! For any other info check out his Facebook or Twitter.
