The culture of the barbershop drew him in, his passion helped him succeed.
Tim Rennie was unsure about a career in hair after a couple of days at a hairdressing salon, but this all changed when he stepped into a barbershop. The culture, the people and the opportunities sparked his interest – the rest is history. Tim now owns Paragon Studio in Victoria and leads a team of passionate barbers.
How and when did your barbering career start?
It started in 2014 – the year after I finished high school. I was just working a few retail jobs and sending it any moment I could, cause why not? My Mum is a hairdresser and suggested that I go suss out this barbershop in South Yarra, I was a little hesitant at first because I had done a day or two at my mum’s shop and it was definitely not my vibe. But to keep my mum happy I went for an interview and trial; I really enjoyed the people and culture it provided. At that point in time, it was one of the first major barbershops in Melbourne and after a little while I realised that not only was this something I really enjoyed but I was learning from some of the best hairdressers/ barbers around.
What drew you to barbering?
Similar to what I mentioned before, the culture that surrounds the barbershop, friends and clients you make. It is super cool. You meet people that have crazy jobs/careers and I have also made some of my closest friends from working with them. I have had some really cool opportunities come up from just working in a shop like cutting band members/DJ’s/Pop stars to working with some awesome brands like The Barbiere Company, all in which I can learn from in so many different ways. Even once I have finished working with different people or brands the connection lives on and when we do catch ups, especially at events, it is like you have never left.
Where are you at now?
Currently I am at Paragon Studio – my first shop that I opened nearly 4 years ago now. It has been a crazy path to get to where I am now, but thinking back I wouldn’t change a thing. Over the last few years I have built up this team of some extraordinary people and every day we go into the shop there is good energy that consists of a little bit of friendly competition, learning and a fair amount of shit talking. Even though we had a pretty dull year last year, I feel like all of the guys have come together and we are going full steam ahead for some pretty big things, which I can’t wait to share!
Proudest moment of your career so far?
I have had several in the last few years. Firstly, opening up Paragon Studio, creating a space that wasn’t common amongst barbershops at the time and making it as far as we have! Secondly, Tori getting back-to-back Men’s Hairdresser of the year nominations. The amount of hard work and commitment she put in not only for herself but for the shop was pretty emotional and I am so thankful and proud of her for doing that! Thirdly, being able to go to work every day and work alongside my amazing and hardworking team! I probably have forgotten some stuff but these are definitely up there for my proudest moments.
