After an unpleasant experience at another barbershop, I was looking for a new place to go. I know, how could someone without any hair have a bad experience? Trust me, I did and the details aren’t worth explaining. Like everything in my life, things don’t happen by coincidence. I “happened” to be on a client visit in Kent and drove past Heritage Barbershop the day they opened their doors. They had a huge handwritten sign that said “NOW OPEN”. Taking a mental note of the name of the shop, I scheduled my first appointment a week later. Well let me tell you, it was the best thing that has happened in a long time. Not only did a meet a great group of barbers, but I also met my photographer/videographer (see the video and photos below).
Among the vintage signs that hang around the shop, one in particular says, “Death Before Bad Hair”, and let’s be honest, no truer statement has ever been said. I believe there’s an unspoken rule here: Good music creates good vibes.
Somedays the playlist is 90’s alternative mixing in a list of today’s indie favorites. Other days, it’s the greatest hits from the coolest boy bands. I mean, come on, who doesn’t love a little old school N’SYNC to jam out to?
Precise beard trimming, warm towels, smooth neck shaves, and expertise haircutting are what make this place a hot spot for guys.
Plus the mini fridge stocked with alcohol and the free bourbon doesn’t hurt either. They’ll even schedule wedding parties a few days before the nuptials, so everyone looks tight on the big day.
Heritage opened almost a year ago in February, and what I considered a hidden gem is quickly becoming not-so hidden anymore. Im okay with that…these guys, and lady, deserve a lot of success. Im happy to share them. Take a look at the video below and make sure to go follow them on instagram…oh, and go get your hair cut…you can thank me later!
The crew
Corey @corey_ruthsatz
Corey is a transplant born and raised in Sandusky, and as co-owner of Heritage Barbershop, he saw the Kent area as an opportunity to bring a more elevated experience in barbering. His goal, to gather the best barbers under one roof. With over 5 years of experience under his belt, he understands the ups and downs, needs and wants, of the barbershop world. You’ll see that as new barbers, products, and services are added in the future. Meanwhile, on his time away from the shop you can expect to see Corey riding his bike or shooting something—preferably a target and not a bear in the woods.
Zayd Abed @zayd_abed.7
As the other half of this duo, you will most likely hear Zayd before you see him. He has the most recognizable laugh, it’s very contagious and you will absolutely be laughing with him around. He knew right out of high school he wanted to go to barber college, but didn’t fully commit until he was visiting family in Palestine—where his cousin owns a barbershop. This was where he grasped his fundamentals and the dream of owning his own shop. His goals are pretty lofty, and they will be reached by his continuing education and ability to keep up on trends in the field. Part of that comes with traveling. When he’s not in the shop he’s somewhere in this world soaking in other cultures and maybe playing a soccer game too.
Emma Purdy @emmma.louise
Currently the only woman of this crew, Emma has been making her way in the barbering world just fine. It’s not often that you find a female barber, let alone one as creative and cool as she is; it’s definitely something that makes her stand out. She’s always had a knack for creating things, and a family friend suggested she become a barber. Emma quickly realized it was a great outlet for her. When she’s not in the shop or posting cool shit on her instagram (she has over 13k followers), you can catch up with her Etsy shop where you’ll find some of the sickest vintage clothing.
Matt Gregory @mattgregory_hair
Usually dressed in a t-shirt, rolled up jeans and bright colored vans, we have this guy who usually cuts my hair. Matt grew up in southern California, Encinitas to be exact, but moved to Ohio with his family when he and his brother were starting high school. His second love is music (he’s been a musician for about 11 years, playing in bands and writing and composing) and it serves as his inspiration when he cuts hair. While sitting in his chair, you can always count on him busting out a lyric without realizing he’s doing it. He believes his attention to detail and continued training is what make him a successful barber…he’s already scheduled a trip to the UK this year to hone his skills from a few well known barbers.
Nick Fink @tumnus.cuts
This guy right here comes to us from right around the corner in Silver Lake. After moving away for a brief period, he realized this was where he needed to be—around family and friends. His own experience of getting a haircut is ultimately the reason he became a barber. There’s nothing better than a fresh hair cut to make you feel like a million bucks, and that’s his goal when every client walks out the door. There might be a few things about Nick that aren’t apparent, and you certainly must know. One, he does stand-up comedy—this is something I think we all need to see at least once in our life. And two, his dog is named Grandpaw and is just as goofy as him.