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.
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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.
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