BARBER SPOTLIGHT: Wade The Barber
Wade Menendez also known as "Wade the Barber" is a master barber that has been in the barber field for over 11 years and is continuously growing his business. What started out as a hobby for him grew to be a career. Graduating from Avara's Academy of Hair Design, Wade received his license to provide his continuously growing client base quality service.
In March of 2011, Wade opened his first barber salon, "The W Hair Loft" which is located in downtown Glen Burnie, Maryland. Through much hard work, dedication and support of his clients he was able to open a second location in the Washington,DC area in the summer of 2014. Through many years of perfecting his craft, he is able to produce unique styles simply with a pair of clippers and his skill set guarantees total satisfaction every time. Wade's commitment to be one of the best barbers he could possibly be has landed him a very impressive client list and has afforded him the opportunity to work on many tv and movie sets. Wade has also been featured in various magazines over the length of his career.
Growing up with a solid christian background, Wade believes one can succeed at anything that they put their minds to. "Follow your passion, give your best each time, remain humble and stay full of integrity and I believe one will do well in life", says Wade.
TMP: When did you begin barbering?
WTB: I've been cutting hair since I was 12 years old, but I became a licensed barber in 2004.
TMP: What made you want to begin barbering?
WTB: It all started with me cutting my hair. People were impressed by my ability to do my own hair so well that they started asking me to cut their hair too.
TMP: What is a barber in your definition?
WTB: I believe that being a good barber goes beyond just cutting hair. What I do involves attention to detail to help the client achieve the desired look, but I am also a confidant, a counselor, and a good friend to a lot of the guys who sit in my chair.
TMP: What is the biggest misconception about barbers?
WTB: People often belittle barbers because there is a big misconception that what we do isn't important or of great value. We work really long hours and our clients trust us to make them look good and feel better about themselves.
TMP: Would you consider barbering your form of art?
WTB: Absolutely! This is a million dollar industry and I take my craft very seriously. I invest in myself to learn everything I can in order to grow my business to the next level.
TMP: People believe that barbering is an easy skill to master, would you say you agree?
WTB: Well, if you go to school and learn the basic techniques, that will get you started. But mastering the skill of barbering is a gift that goes far beyond just getting your license. If you want to be successful, you have to work hard ... and it doesn't happen overnight. It takes lots of practice and patience to find your niche. Once you do, the possibilities are endless.
TMP: How long did it take for you to master your skills for barbering?
WTB: I am still learning every day. Part of mastering what I know is sharing that knowledge with others. That's why I teach a class to upcoming barbers and shop owners who want to grow their business. The goal is to pass on what I've learned to them in hopes that they will pass it on to someone else.
TMP: You are traveling the world, does it become overwhelming still zoning the craft when you're becoming such a huge brand?
WTB: My schedule is always busy, so it's about finding the right balance. I'm blessed to be able to travel around the world doing what I love, but I always give the necessary time and attention to the two barbershops I own, along with teaching classes and making sure my clients are taken care of.
TMP: How do you want your clients to feel upon leaving your chair?
WTB: I want them to feel empowered and confident. There is nothing better than seeing their self-esteem boosted when they leave.
"ONE OF THE BEST FEELINGS IN THE WORLD IS SEEING MY CLIENTS SATISFIED " - WADE THE BARBER
TMP: What is next for you?
WTB: Growing the brand is a constant work in progress. I'm working on some really exciting things for 2017 that I'll share soon.
TMP: How can people become your clients?
WTB: To schedule an appointment, visit my website at www.wadethebarber.com. They can also follow me on all social media sites to know when I'm in their city.
TMP: Are you social? FB? IG? Twitter?
WTB: I'm @wadethebarber on Facebook and Instagram.
