I ventured into barbering in 2021, during the pandemic. Until then, I was just a customer, but something was always missing – better service, better atmosphere… So I thought: Why not do it my way?

Hey there! Today, we’re chatting with someone who wasn’t afraid to take on a challenge and launched the Saint Tropez barbershop. How did he get into barbering, and why is he confident about Bratislava? Let’s find out!

Hi! I ventured into barbering in 2021, during the pandemic. Until then, I was just a customer, but something was always missing – better service, better atmosphere… So I thought: Why not do it my way? Since 2014, I’ve been visiting various barbershops, but I was never completely satisfied. I wanted to create a place where customers feel like they’re among friends. That’s how Saint Tropez was born!

Saint Tropez? That’s not a typical name for a barbershop…

Exactly! I wanted something that grabs attention and has a vibe. Saint Tropez evokes relaxation, style, and exclusivity. That’s exactly what I want to offer customers – not just a good haircut, but an experience.

Where can people find you?

Our main location is in Vranov nad Topľou. It might be a small town, but we have a large catchment area – people come to us from Michalovce and Humenné. And now we’re heading to Bratislava!

That’s a big move! Weren’t you afraid of the competition?

Of course not! I love challenges. Many people from the east live in Bratislava and often asked me why there isn’t a quality barbershop there at reasonable prices. So I thought: Let’s do it!

How did you get into barbering? Did you have any formal training?

I completed a 4-month course with Tomáš Fogoš, one of the first barbers in Slovakia. I wasn’t a trained hairdresser, but after the course, I knew this was it. And when you go all in, the results come!!

How were your beginnings? Did it go smoothly?

Not at all! The first few months were brutal, but I quickly found my footing. My advantage? I treat customers like friends. For us, it’s not just about the haircut but the overall feeling. I talk to them a lot, show interest, and people appreciate that. Influencers like René Rendy, who mentioned us, also helped..

How do you handle marketing? Do you have any special strategies?

Mainly social media. The advertisement is what the customer wears on their head! When they leave with a great haircut, they recommend us further. That’s the best strategy..

How many are currently on your team?

In Vranov, I have two colleagues. In Bratislava, we’re also starting with two, but I plan to expand the team with more people over time..

What are your plans in Bratislava? Will it be different from Vranov?

First and foremost, quality at a reasonable price, but mainly I want customers to feel special. In Vranov, we have 600 customers monthly, so I believe we’ll find our place in Bratislava as well. I have my idea that I’ll follow. So far, it’s working out..

Do you plan further expansions?

Right now, I’m focusing on Bratislava, but it definitely doesn’t end there. I want to proceed gradually, step by step.

You’ve also changed your opening hours. Why?

I wanted to offer something different. Most barbershops close on Friday, but we’re open on weekends too. Flexibility is key!

How do you handle reservations?

We use Booqme. Initially, we took reservations only through phone calls, but now? I can’t imagine it without the system! It’s liberating when you don’t have to deal with appointments and calls after working hours. It took up an extreme amount of time.

Which package do you use?

Ultimate. It’s practical, saves us a lot of time, and customers receive automatic reminders.

Do you plan any training for yourself and the team?

Absolutely! I want to keep progressing. We plan to go for training in England with a renowned barber. Trends are constantly changing; you need to stay in the game.

When are you opening the branch in Bratislava??

February 1st in Ružinov, opposite the polyclinic. A huge advantage is plenty of parking spaces, which I believe customers will appreciate..

Great! I wish you the best and look forward to the opening.

Thanks, see you there!

Klaudia Horvathova 17.02.2025