All posts by Princess Nichols

Thinning Hair : Addressing the elephant in the barbershop

Saved by Style

Look, compared to women, men have it easy when it comes to beauty standards. But we all know the top 3 for guys are hair, height and having a big … heart. All of which often just come down to the cards we’re dealt. But it’s 2024. Artificial Intelligence has stolen our jobs and Elon Musk is dead set on colonizing Mars. Anything is possible.

But before you fly off to Turkey for that hair transplant – here’s some alternative advice for thinning hair from your friendly, neighborhood barbers.

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Arthur from Hyde Park says, “With fine and thin hair we need to create volume and in order to do so, it’s better to have a dry look rather than a wet one. Matte and dry products blend for effortlessly natural styles while wet and high shine products undoubtedly emphasize thin hair.”

He recommends you avoid using gels and oils that weigh down your hair. Instead, use a lightweight heat protectant and blow dry your hair from root to end to create noticeable lift and flattering volume.

Book with Arthur Reyes

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Julian at our Bouldin shop suggests texture powders for a clean look and a light hold that supports volume. The texture powder our crew recommends most is from Uppercut. Another great thing about texture powers is that they’re extremely easy to use, natural looking and you can opt for a colored powder for a thicker, fuller appearance.

Book with Julian Nichols

The mysteries of male pattern baldness

This GQ article stresses the importance of using clean products that put your hair health above cheap price points and machismo marketing.

What Men Should Know Before Coloring Their Hair

The New York Times spotlight an option that many men don’t realize they have – Coloring their hair. Ask your barber if they think our Gray Blending services would be a good fit for you.

The Best Hair Dryers for Men in 2024

We weren’t about to put you on to Arthur’s hair hack without sliding you some credible recommendations from Men’s Health.

Style, Color … Cut

But wait! There’s more!

The right haircut can make all the difference when it comes to feeling confident and stylish, especially if you’re experiencing hair loss. Choosing a cut that complements your natural hair pattern can create the illusion of fullness and shape. We’re sharing 3 styles that are not only easy on the eyes but healthy for your hair. Let’s get into it.

The Buzz Cut:

This classic, low-maintenance cut is a favorite for a reason. It works well with thinning hair, making your hair loss less noticeable and giving you a sleek, timeless look.

The Textured Crop:

For those who prefer a bit more hair, the textured crop adds volume and dimension. Ask your barber to cut your hair in layers to create movement and a thicker appearance.

The Shaved Head:

If you’re ready to embrace a completely clean look, shaving your head can be liberating. It’s bold, modern, and eliminates the worry of thinning hair.

A Community That Supports You

Our barbers are here to help you find the best style that suits you and makes you feel your best. We’re more than just a barbershop; we’re a community that supports and uplifts each other.

So, next time you’re in the shop, talk to us about your hair concerns. Let’s find the perfect cut and products that will make you feel like yourself again. No matter your hair situation, owning your look is what truly makes you stand out.

3 Reasons You’re Still Single

(According to Your Barber)

Missed Connections

Look, we love hearing your dating stories while you’re in the chair, but let’s get real for a sec. Ever wonder why you’re still single? We’ve got some constructive feedback. It’s not just about looking good, it’s about bringing something interesting to the table. So, while we shape up your hair, let’s shape up your game. Here are three reasons why you might still be flying solo—and trust us, we’ve heard it all.

1. You’re Boring

Listen, nobody wants to hear the same old small talk about the weather and work.

If your go-to topics are as dry as Austin in August, it’s time to diversify. Not all news is soul-crushing dystopian propaganda. There’s plenty of local happenings, seasonal celebrations, and feel-good stories that make for great conversation. Keep up with what’s going on in Austin – from local music gigs to foodie festivals – and you’ll always have something interesting to say. Trust us, staying in the loop can not only make you smarter but it makes you sound cooler too.

2. You’re Stuck in a Rut

Routine can be comforting, but it can also make you predictable. They’re either working for you or against you. If you find yourself going to the same bars, eating the same food, and spending hours on a video game, it’s no wonder you’re not meeting new people. ‘Cause let’s be honest – We know you’re sick of the apps. Imagine being single in a city like Austin and not having fun. Get out there – take a cooking class, join a book club, or try pickle ball. (For some reason that’s popular now.) You’re guaranteed to meet new people with similar interests. For all you DND nerds out there, just think of it as character building.

“Variety is the very spice of life, that gives it all its flavor.” – William Cowper

3. You’re Overthinking It

Sometimes, the problem isn’t your actions but your perspective. If you’re constantly strategizing your next move or worrying about the perfect line, you’re probably coming off as stiff or insincere. Relax and learn to ride the waves as they come.

Dating is a game for gamblers not card counters.

Don’t fall into the trap of comparing yourself to internet troll content. There’s more to dating than being over 6′ and having a good job. You actually just have to like each other. Which starts by getting to know each other as you are – not as you present yourself to be. Scary, we know. Time to lock in. (or whatever the kids are saying these days.)

There you have it – straight from the barbershop chair. Now, we could have told you the reason you’re still single is because you haven’t booked yet. But we don’t let our favorite clients walk around looking dusty in the first place.

So, whether it’s spicing up your conversation, breaking out of your routine, or unlearning internet dating advice, these tips can help you find the connection you’re looking for. After all, we’ve seen a lot of love and loss from this seat, and we’re rooting for you.

The People’s Choice : SHED Reviews

Good googamooga this a nice haircut! – John S.

Now, normally we let our work speak for itself, but occasionally we let clients speak too.

It’s about time we told you that we don’t just love seeing you at the shop, we also love hearing from you. You may think just because our Bouldin location has 4.8 stars on Google and Hyde Park as an absolutely perfect 5 stars, that we don’t need any more compliments going to our head. No offense, but you’d be wrong. SHED is a super humble barbershop that doesn’t just throw reviews in your face like “Y’all were so nice. Love the vibe of the place. Love the doggies too. – Sam M.”

Thanks, Sam. The dogs said they loved you too btw.

We also don’t need you to tell you how talented our barbers are but John Su. wants you to know that “I come regularly for beard trims. And they have extraordinary wonderful service.

Appreciate that, Johnny. Can we call you Johnny?

It’s your right as an American 🦅 to spread the good word and who are we to stop good Samaritans?

See what people are saying about your favorite barber.

Rave Reviews

One of the best and most fun haircuts I got in a long time. Definitely coming back to Miranda next time I’m getting a haircut. 

Gil K

SHED – HYDE PARK

Adrian was awesome as always!! Also, the shop is a vibe! 

Dustin G

SHED – BOULDIN

Krissy kills it every time. So glad I found Shed! 

Todd F

SHED – HYDE PARK

Carra did a phenomenal job. I love this place and the people.

Garrett H

SHED – BOULDIN

The best and friendliest barber shop I’ve ever been at! I get my haircut with Arthur and he’ll give me the cleanest, crispiest fades and chatting with him is always a good time. Definitely recommend!

Dustin F

SHED – HYDE PARK

I always appreciate Courtney’s work and disposition.

Curt S

SHED – BOULDIN

Andy did an excellent job! 

Grant B

SHED – BOULDIN

Men with lengthened beards are very particular about who styles their facial hair. Julian is an expert in beard care and someone I trust with my beard. 

Kenneth E

SHED – BOULDIN

Thanks For The Love

We hope you enjoyed this little peek into what makes SHED such a special place. Your reviews don’t just help us grow; they remind us why we love doing what we do. Keep sharing your thoughts and spreading the love. And if you haven’t already, drop us a line online or in person. We can’t wait to hear from you and, more importantly, see you back in the shop. Cheers to great haircuts, good times, and the best clients a barbershop could ask for!

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

The Good

Time for a little chat about what’s going down at the shop.

Good news first, let’s give a Texas-sized welcome to our newest Bouldin barber, Robin! Most recently, from Virginia, Robin has been a great addition to the family. You know we don’t just let anyone in here, so don’t be afraid to say hey and get to know ‘em. We’re looking forward to Robin meeting all of our favorite regulars too. (you know who you are 😘)

The Bad

Now, onto the sappy stuff. We’re saying a bittersweet goodbye to one of our own. Yep, Shea’s packing up his clippers and heading west to Cali with the fam. We’ll miss his killer cuts and the way he effortlessly towered over everyone in the shop. But hey, our loss is California’s gain. Shea’s last day with us? May 29th. Don’t miss your chance to snag one last trim and wish him well on his next chapter.

The Ugly

Alright, let’s talk logistics. At our Bouldin spot, we’ve got a friendly (and super cute) front desk crew ready to handle all your booking needs.Including but not limited to: Barber recommendations, service suggestions, scheduling assistance, wait lists and product knowledge. 

But over at Hyde Park? It’s every barber for themselves, baby. So, while our Bouldin front desk can’t make or adjust appointments for Hyde Park, they can see when your next appointment is and pass along your barber’s contact info. You can lock in with your fave barber directly or keep it simple and book online. We’ve got options.

Now you’re up-to-date on the SHED latest. That wasn’t so bad was it?

Thanks for looking – we’ll see you soon!

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A Cause Without A Rebel

Krissy Green | SHED Barber – Hyde Park | Photo by Franceska Rae

A Cause Without A Rebel

2024. Another super fun (and not at all polarizing) Presidential election year. Over the last few decades, American culture has shifted away from a community-focused society towards a more individualistic way of life. Most of us claim we now get our information on civics and politics from the news, books and social media compared to conversations with friends, neighbors or community groups. This lack of meaningful discourse around politics has contributed to a growing sense of disconnection from our communities and a diminishing sense of civic responsibility. In Austin, we have the chance to lead the way in fostering real connections and setting an example for the next generation of Texans.

We’re The Role Models Now

A civic role model is someone who openly speaks and listens about politics, civics and social change. More so, they lead by example. Role models demonstrate integrity, empathy, and a commitment to making their community a better place for all. Researchers with More In Common estimate that about 43% of Americans do not have a civic role model. Meanwhile around 30% look to a family member. Typically, a parent or grandparent.

Right now, we are being looked to as the next generation’s civic role models. Don’t freak out. A civic role model doesn’t have to look like a “prepper” or a “social justice warrior”. Most of the time it looks like that neighbor who’s always out there organizing the block parties and clean-up events. They’re the ones who don’t just talk about change; they roll up their sleeves and get stuff done.

Whether it’s voting in local elections, lending a hand at Austin Pets Alive!, or just having those real conversations with folks at the barbershop, we’re setting the example. And that’s crucial because our conversations and actions today are actively shaping the world that Austin’s children are set to inherit.

No Time Like The Present

As members of this community, it’s our responsibility to re-instill an integrity mindset in our families and neighborhoods. We must teach each other to seek out role models who embody our values, and inspire children to take meaningful actions that contribute to the greater good. By actively participating in our civic life and fostering an environment of open dialogue and engagement, we can equip children with the tools they need to build a brighter and more inclusive future for all. Together, let’s lead by example. It can start with a simple conversation with a friend or your barber.

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3 Simple Tips for a Stress-Free Wedding Season

Wedding Season

Who doesn’t love a good party? We sure do. But between all the planning and prep, there’s one thing you shouldn’t skip: looking your absolute best on the big day. After all, those wedding photos are forever, and trust us, you don’t want to be cringing years down the line.

SXSW was just the beginning of Austin’s busiest spring. Now, It’s time to ensure you and your crew are primed and polished for the season’s big events. With years of experience hosting groomsmen parties, we’ve perfected the art of pre-wedding pampering, taking the stress out of looking sharp for your special occasions.

Forget the hassle of coordinating multiple appointments at different locations. We’ve got you covered. Simply shoot us an email, and let us handle the rest. Whether you prefer to gather the gang at our shop for a laid-back grooming session complete with quality cuts, shaves, and cold drinks, or you’d like us to bring the barbershop experience to you. On-site, we’ve got the expertise and flexibility to accommodate your needs. You’ve got options.

For now, here’s 3 incredibly simple things to help your wedding season go smoothly.

Fool Proof

1. Book Early!

We’re not just talking about your haircut. Though you can call our shop and book up to 6 weeks in advance, even if you’re only booking for yourself. Or you could book online up to 2 weeks in advance. We’re talking about the other time-sensitive details. Book your hotel. Make those reservations. Order that gift. Some people call this the Crock-pot method – “set it and forget it”. We like to call this the “Don’t play yourself technique”. Just make sure you’ve added it to the calendar and you’ve peeped the cancellation policies and you’re good.

2. Secure Your Suit.

Gentlemen, listen up. We’ve seen it all, and trust us when we say you don’t want to leave suit prep to the last minute. Plan ahead and have your suit pressed or ready the week of the wedding—not the day of. Again, this is wedding and graduation season. You’re not the only one getting their event wear tailored and dry cleaned. Avoid the unnecessary stress of last-minute alterations or forgotten details. Thank us later.

3. Walk It Out.

Let’s not drop the ball on footwear. No, we’re not going to tell you that you can’t wear Vans (though you probably shouldn’t). This is a warning. Break those bad boys in before you try to two-step to Texas Hold ‘Em in front of everybody. Whether you’re bring out the dress shoes or the “fancy boots”, a special occasion is not the day to break them in for the first time. Your feet deserve better. You deserve better. Here’s a great guide on how to safely break in some new shoes.

Happily Ever After

Folks, we know you’ve got a lot on your plate. Don’t let the chaos of party planning and pre-wedding nerves get the best of you. Follow these three simple tips, and we guarantee you’ll breeze through wedding season like a pro. After all, love is in the air, and there’s no room for stress when you’re celebrating the happiest day of your life. So, take a deep breath and relax – We’ve got your back, brother.

Finding the Silver Lining in SXSW

SXSW

Ah, SXSW – the annual event that brings a tons of energy, entertainment and it’s fair share of headaches to our beloved city. As “locals”, we’re no strangers to the influx of tourists and traffic that SXSW and ACL brings each year.

Sure, navigating downtown can feel like an Olympic sport, but let’s take a moment to shift our perspective. There are positive contributions it brings to our city and our community.

Local businesses get a huge boost of traffic and love every March. The payoff for service workers alone is not only notable but much deserved. There’s no way Austin could support events like this without them.

Another gain worth capitalizing on is sheer exposure. Trump and Biden aren’t the only ones who need to be out there shaking hands and kissing babies. Any local artist, musician or influencer in Austin can easily find new opportunities this month. Know your goals and know where to look – they’re here right now thanks to SXSW.

Yea, not all of us are service workers, creatives or influencers. But we all have a couple friends who are. I don’t know about you, but we love seeing our homies succeed. Creating community involves lifting each other up. Not just in hard times, but in good times too. Table the SXSW trash talk and take advantage of our beautiful spring and all the amazing events going on this month.

It’s also crucial to recognize that complaining just to uphold some notion of “local authenticity” is, well, a bit corny.

Local & Laid Back

There’s no shortage of exciting, high-energy events and shows around the city during SXSW. (And we’ll get to those) Right now, we’re featuring a few handpicked events that dodge the overwhelming crowds and steep ticket prices. Check out these low key alternatives that aim to fill your cup this week.

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Saturday March 9, 2024

Located in South Austin, Good Dad Studios is the newest spot for local artists to showcase their work. Swing by this Saturday to meet the artists, browse their latest creations, and maybe even take home a new piece for your collection.

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Sunday March 10, 2024

Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown and immerse yourself in the beauty of spring at the Umlauf Sculpture Garden. With free admission during the Art In Bloom event, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy some art and nature.

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Wednesday March 13, 2024

Our absolute treasure of a neighbor, Golden Mean, is hosting a set of 6 local musicians and tattoos by Micheline Halloul. Doors at 5pm, FREE with RSVP. Book your next cut for Wednesday afternoon before you slide over to Golden Mean.

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Saturday March 16, 2024

Grab a friend, a date or your family next Saturday for Flores Market’s Mazel Tov Kocktail Hour. This is a Jewish-Latin market with over 40 vendors including art, food and tattoos. Held at Cork & Screw, this market is family-friendly, pet-friendly and free!

Headliners

Our night owls and live music junkies are thriving right now. In the next two weeks, there’s gonna be more shows, stand-up and “unofficial parties” than we could possibly count. Luckily, we don’t have to. Our homies over at The Austin Chronicle are keeping all the latest SXSW event info absolutely stacked. Check them out to scope the more high-energy happenings.

Remember, while SXSW may come with its fair share of challenges, let’s not lose sight of the opportunities it brings to our city. Let’s embrace the silver lining and make the most of this exciting time in Austin. After all, it’s what makes our city truly unique.

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New Barbers, New Services, New Hours

The Gist

Hey, fam! We’ve got some exciting news to share. There are big things happening around our shops, and we can’t wait for you to be a part of it. As we dive into 2024, we’re thrilled to introduce some new services, welcome talented barbers to our team, and unveil some fresh merch.

New Services

At our Bouldin location, we’re stepping up our grooming game with two new services. Waxing – for those pesky ear and nose hairs, and Grey Blending for both hair and beard. Now is the perfect time to try something new or personalize your grooming routine.

Meet Our New Barbers

Join us in welcoming Julian to our Bouldin shop and Miranda to Hyde Park! We couldn’t be more thrilled to have them both on board!

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Julian, a charismatic and exceptionally skilled barber, will be gracing Bouldin with their talent Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays.

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Meanwhile, Miranda, a longtime friend of the shop, will be holding it down at our Hyde Park location every Saturday and Sunday.

New Hours & More Weekend Openings

To better accommodate your busy schedules, our hard-working crews at both locations have created more availability for weekend appointments. Plus, we’re shaking things up at our Bouldin spot by adjusting our Monday hours to 11am – 8pm, starting February 26. Bouldin and Hyde Park are proudly open 7 days a week – But not 24 hours. So, book now!

2024 Merch

It’s rumored that for every local business you support, an angel gets their wings. Idk, that’s just what they’re saying.

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Attention!

Don’t sleep on our limited edition corduroy hat with copper embroidery – it’s sure to turn heads.

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The iconic SHED neighborhood tee is now made with the people’s choice – Comfort Colors. We might have brought this baddie back from the vault. But this is the first time ever that it’s been offered in Ivory with our exclusive SHED Crew stamp of approval on the front.

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Our Construction 2.0 hoodie pays homage to a classic favorite from 2020, with the 2024 reprint being thicker, softer and juicer than ever before.

10 Years of Quality Services

Starting April 17th, we’ll be implementing slight price adjustments for Level 2 and 3 barbers at our Bouldin location. We believe in fair compensation for our barbers’ time and expertise and we know you do too. Our community is just as much a part of the SHED fam as the crew. So, we’re keeping our Level 1 service prices the same without any compromise on service. For the last 10 years, SHED’s been a cornerstone of the community serving quality cuts, loud tunes and long laughs. We’re thankful for all of the love and support Austin continues to show us.

Swing into the shop soon for a cut, a beer or a sick new tee!

Hustle Culture is Dead

The Grind

Worn-out faces staring blankly at screens, their energy drained and their spirits crushed. Sound familiar? Yea, that’s burnout, brother. Bummer.

It’s the all-too-common scene in offices across Austin and beyond. “Hustle culture” has run rampant, leaving a trail of burned-out workers in its wake. But in reality, burnout can develop from a combination of work and life stress. According to “The Effect of Hustle Culture on Psychological Distress,” hustle culture is characterized by the relentless pursuit of productivity.

Work hard, play hard. 

Right?

In fact, this study states that when individuals push themselves for exceedingly long hours it leads to psychological distress such as depression and anxiety. It’s almost like that’s the complete opposite results hustle culture’s been hyping. 

In a city like Austin, the drive is palpable and the pursuit of success is a common thread. Social media and influencers can really amplify misinformation. Turning our existing, productive work flow into something dangerously exaggerated and depleting. Platforms showcase curated highlight reels of seemingly perfect lives and achievements. It’s easy for the average person to compare themselves unfavorably and feel like they’re falling short. At times, we may not realize that the people, stories and successes that we are comparing ourselves to are strategically edited and embellished. This constant comparison game can take a toll on mental well-being. In 2024, it’s on us to prioritize disconnecting from social media, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care in the midst of our successes.

Sustainable Life Balance

In the modern world, there’s a fine line between hustle culture and healthy productivity. Of course, most of these huge tech companies and CEOs aren’t going to clear this up for you. So, we will. Defining what healthy productivity is for you will require some introspection. For some, it might mean setting realistic expectations and boundaries, learning to say no when necessary, and prioritizing tasks based on importance and impact. For others, it could involve incorporating regular breaks, practicing mindfulness techniques, and nurturing hobbies and relationships outside of work. Ultimately, healthy productivity is about finding what works best for you and aligning your actions with your values and long-term aspirations. It’s about striving for progress, not perfection, and honoring your mental and physical health along the way.

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Saturday 2/3 – The Floating World Art Exhibit @ The Blanton

Saturday 2/17 – Comedy Festival @ Horseshoe Bay Resort

Sunday 2/18 – Lunar New Year Celebration @ Chinatown Center

Main Character Era

Being a local barbershop, we’re thankful for friends and neighbors who not only support us but enrich our shop daily. Enriching your life doesn’t have to look like new cars or your next vacation. It’s having a conversation with your barber, a coffee with a friend or calling your mom. The next time you’re at our Bouldin location, stop in and meet our neighbor, Grace, at Golden Mean. Find unique gifts and cards for unique friends. If you’re a Hyde Park homie, try taking some time after your cut to have a coffee at Figure 8 or a date night at Lazarus Brewing. Hustle culture is dead because it’s unsustainable. This is just a little reality check. You only get this one life.

If you’re not living, what’s the point?

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altogether although this may be trueThis is a short sentance. We like these. It’s easy to read. Blogs need to be easy to read. This is small. We like small writing. Small Writing helps us improve. We are doing great. I love this article. Many people love our articles. It’s a great read for everyone. I love it.
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Service Industry Discount

🌟 Calling all Service Industry Homies! 🌟

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At SHED, we know that life in the service industry can be long shifts, late nights, and non-stop hustle. That’s why we’re looking out for the crew that keep’s Austin alive.

Our Industry Discount is exclusively available at our South 1st Street location in Bouldin.

Swing by on Mondays and Tuesdays and let us know where you’re working these days. We’ll hook you up with 20% off your services. 20% off to treat yourself to a fresh cut or shave.

So whether you’re slinging drinks, serving up bites, or keeping the vibes alive behind the scenes, come kick back with us at SHED Barber and let us take care of you for a change. Because after all those long shifts and hectic weekends, you deserve a little pampering, don’t you think?

Book your Service Industry cut at SHED South 1st!

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