Today we’d like to introduce you to Tommie Gonzalez Jr.
Hi Tommie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I went to school and began a broadcast tv career in San Antonio back in 1996. In 1999, I left San Antonio for the bright lights of Las Vegas to continue my career in tv broadcast. I spent the next 10 years working in tv stations before I decided to try a career in the music business. That was a critical detour for me as it took me to Berlin, Germany for a few years. In Berlin, while at a meeting with a popular digital music streaming service I became frustrated and realized that haircuts were still safe from the digital world. You still can’t download a haircut. So I became a barber. I am licensed in Texas, and Washington and qualified in The UK.
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?
Nothing ventured, nothing gained right?
The biggest struggle was certainly COVID-19. Opening a shop during a pandemic is not easy.
We’ve been impressed with Puro Handsome Barbershop, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Puro Handsome Barbershop is a classic barbershop experience but with a modern twist. I consider all the events and moments I have had to get a haircut for and recognize all the different times of my life in which they occurred. I feel a great empathy for my guests and try to provide great memories for them while they’re preparing for all their own unique moments. What I mean is that I have also prepared for a job interview, a family photo, a wedding event, a first date, etc…
We also provide pragmatic and simple grooming products that are our own brand and teach how to use them effectively and efficiently.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I think the “barber bubble” will bust, but I definitely see the grooming industry lending itself to more identity and lifestyle marketing. Niche marketers will see the benefits of personally connecting with their clients.
There’s always gonna be big bland salons/shops with 8+ chairs, but until haircuts can be downloaded we’re gonna be just fine.
Pricing:
- Haircut $40
- Haircut and Beard $45
- Haircut and Shave $45
- Shave/Beard Trim $25
Contact Info:
- Website: www.purohandsome.com
- Instagram: @puro_handsome_barbershop
