American Shave Classic Barber Best of Union 2011

American Shave Classic Barber Receives 2011 Best of Union Award

U.S. Commerce Association’s Award Plaque Honors the Achievement

NEW YORK, NY, December 14, 2011 -- American Shave Classic Barber has been selected for the 2011 Best of Union Award in the Barbers category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA).

The USCA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2011 USCA Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USCA and data provided by third parties.

About U.S. Commerce Association (USCA)

U.S. Commerce Association (USCA) is a New York City based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USCA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.

The USCA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.

SOURCE: U.S. Commerce Association

CONTACT:
U.S. Commerce Association
Email: PublicRelations@uscaaward.com
URL: http://www.uscaaward.com

American Shave 2012 Team

American Shave Classic Barber


Here we are together at American Shave. We have an elite team that can rock any hair style today's man may desire. We make the old look fresh, the timid look aggresive, the nerd look interseting and gray hair look grown and sexy. This all star team has what it takes to keep dominating the platform and raising the bar of excellence for those around. Never under estimate this teams unique chemistry.

Catch up with today's New Jersey's Top 100 Salon's by making an appointment for a free consulattion or maybe treat yourself to a hot towel shave. This dynamite team doesn't only master scissors over comb and a great haircut but hair toning, shaving and more.

Call today 908-349-8081 for your turn at looking yoour best!

American Shave 3rd Year Anniversary Party!

Come celebrate with the entire American Shave Crew on Saturday, December 17th at M-Cafe in Elizabeth, NJ!

Enjoy 6 different cocktails named after the American Shave menu of services and have a bite of an amazing appetizer spread the for first hour. We will be celebrating till the doors close with all our friends and family.

You will be hypnotized by the sounds of DJ/Producer David "VIBES" Tobon and DJ Lily Tobon on the one's and two's playing today's mash-ups and top 40 hits, plus exclusive beats produced by David "VIBES".

Doors open at 10pm so come in and make your appearance early to take advantage of the limited space that will be packed quickly!

STREET SMART GEAR

If you're getting ready for this years fashion tips and you want to know what's hot, take a look at Mitchell Kass.

Mitchell Kass knows what's hot in the streets and the type of textiles to utilize in today's trendy male wear. In this collection he displays an array of plaid-ed garments bringing out street and fashion all in one.

Next time your out and about, put these styles to work for you and show off how you want to come across.

Check out www.MitchellKass.com

Here is an idea of what inspires the Designer Mitchell Kass for some of his work.

Movember

What is Movember?

Movember is the month formerly known as November, where men and women across the globe join together to raise awareness and funds for men’s health issues. Men grow a Mo (moustache) for 30 days to become a walking, talking billboards, for our men’s health causes - specifically cancers affecting men.

Men who support Movember, called Mo Bros, start by registering at Movember.com. Mo Bros start Movember 1st clean-shaven, then grow and groom their Mo, for the rest of the month, raising money along the way. Women who support Movember, called Mo Sistas, also start by registering at Movember.com. Mo Sistas champion the Mo by supporting their Mo Bros, organizing events, leading a team and spreading the important message of men’s health.

Where does the money go?

Funds raised through the Movember US campaign go to Movember (Tax ID: 77-0714052) which is a national, not for profit organization with 501(c)(3) registration.

The net funds are committed to programs supporting prostate cancer and other male cancer initiatives run by Movember and through our men’s health partners the Prostate Cancer Foundation and LIVESTRONG.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation, LIVESTRONG and Movember together ensure that funded programs are world-class and align with our strategic goals.

Join our team here and donate what you can. American Shave Stash Growwers! this will help us raise money for the awareness.

Family Arts Movement in Union, NJ

Stop by between 12-5:30pm for Arts and Crafts, creative eco-conscious workshops and a huge community mural painting, and face painting. Many of Union's local vendors will be displaying information about their business. There will be great music by many local bands playing the entire time, along with the proposed events. Meet and greet many of Union's local business and find out what great services Union has to offer.

for more info contact familymovement@gmail.com

On Saturday, October 22, 2011 the Family Arts Movement will be hosting "Festival on the Green".

CASH for Gold Toy Drive!

Stop by on October 29,th 2011 and sell your gold for top dollar! We have the best gold buyer in the Tri-State area here shelling out hard cold cash for your worn, broken, faded, old, or mismatched gold, earrings or rings.

While your here we are having a toy drive for the kids in need of a toy this holiday season. Stop in and donate a toy even if you don't have any gold to sell. Tell your friend, wife, brother, co-worker or mom and dad. We are here for only 2 hours and we are looking to have a great turn out.

Enjoy complimentary refreshments and appetizers for the night! For any questions or more information please feel free to call 908-296-2224.

Here's how it works:
1.Bring your gold, platinum and sterling silver jewelery, estate jewelery, coins, sterling silver flatware and fine watches... anything that is unwanted or unworn.
2.Appraisers from American Gold and Diamond Buyers will provide you with a private and confidential valuation.
3.If you decide to sell, you will receive CASH on the spot!

Education

Every well know barber/stylist has had some sort of education. When you are involved in a high end field or just a regular shop you should always look into educating yourself with the newest trends in hair.

Keeping up with today's trends is very important and a must in the field. You can develop many different techniques you had no idea about. When taking an education course or class you will broaden your views in many angles. Education comes in different ranges. Some classes are for scissor training or some can strictly be in regards to hair color or straight razor shaving.

If you think you know it all or your cosmotology license is sufficient than you are dead wrong. The finest stylist in today's hair cutting still seek education on a regular basis. You never learn or master a technique. New styles are always being learned and developed for clients to evolve with style and when you think you know it all, boom! something new is out.

As a licensed professional, I take coarses when ever I get a chance. These oppotunites can be very crucial and I like to be a well rounded barber/stylist. You can find many classes on line or through your local product distributor. Big companies like Paul Mitchell, L'Oreal, American Crew and more, usually have classes available or in house salon training.

Make education a part of your path to sucess and unlimited capabilites. Encourage your team of stylist to do the same and embrase the capabilites to broaden your knowledge.

BEHIND THE BLADE Episode 9

Here is Episode 9, a slight twist from the normal BTB episodes. See how Elan Wonder throws up a custom design on American Shave's basement wall. Here Elan displays his talent and Manny explains how the two worlds of art come together and meet as one. Elan is an aerosol artist that has been in the game for a long time. Elan's collaboration with Manny, who has been in the hair business for a long time, equals a great outcome by far!

Check out more Elan Wonder

Dress to Impress!

As a barber/stylist don't you think that the way you look is important? Well you better think twice if you think an old pair of ripped jeans and a stained white tee is gonna make a great impression.

The first impression is always the deal maker or breaker in a clients eye. If you walk into a Doctor's office and he looks a mess would you want him to attend you? I know that i like it when the person I am dealing with is presentable and clean looking.

As a professional always keep your attire proper and neat. Weather your style is gothic, modern or classic make sure you represent yourself well. look in the mirror and take the time to look over at what you have chosen to wear for the day. I believe that a "uniform" is real corporate, but a great outfit lets a person know you are serious about your profession and you know what your doing.

Choose an attire that fits correctly according to your body size and stature. Fitted jeans and a button down shirt is a great way to start. Dark, solid colors are always best. Prints and wording on a shirt are not good examples of a sharp look. Don't forget to accessorize your alphet with a nice belt and maybe a fedora hat, or a trendy haircut. Shoes also complete the look. Clean shoes or trendy sneaker/shoes are a great way to tone down an outfit without breaking the rules. We don't want you looking like your headed to a night club.

An example of sneaker/shoes are Chuck Taylor's classic black and white or even a nice pair of black shoes with a rubber sole for comfort. Stay away from running sneakers or white shoes that stand out and may look hairy by your second haircut.

All in all an alphet says a lot about a person. You can also attract clients according to your look and demeanor. Follow these few rules and you will see the difference. Not only in how you look and feel but how clients look and treat you as well.

Appointments preferred

Have you ever walked in to a barbershop/salon and can't even find a seat? That is the most frustrating feeling in the world. You feel like screaming at the top of your lungs but that will only make you look like an idiot.

Have you ever wondered if an appointment would be the next best thing for you? Here at American Shave we gladly except walk-ins but appointments are preferred. Here's why. Having a set schedule allows the client to have his time in the chair at the barbers 100% attention. This may seem unfair for non appointment clients but in fact it justifies quality versus quantity.

Appointments lead to a much happier experience and you won't feel rushed or "squeezed" in. The barber or stylist has the ability to prep for a future client in advance allowing him to execute the perfect strategy for the final product. Barbers/stylists work smoother and retain a much better composition knowing who will be sitting in their chair next.

As per the clients expectations, he or she is attended within a reasonable time and the waiting game is to a minimum, if any. Also you will walk into a comfortable waiting area instead of a hostile, congested waiting lounge where everyone is jumping to be taken care of next. Avoid the "I was here first" mumbo jumbo and accommodate yourself with a time slot that works in accordance to your life style.

If your shop doesn't work with appointments, suggest they do. Break down the pro's of having a schedule to work with and how clients appreciate it and In return the shop works more efficiently. In today's hustle and bustle running on time means being able to control your daily commitments, don't let someone else manage your day. Make an appointment!

Cut for Success? What Your Hairstyle Says About You | Men's Life Today

Here is the scoop on what your hairstyle says about you.


Cut for Success? What Your Hairstyle Says About You | Men's Life Today

Be! Beauty Hot Spot in NYC

In July we went over to the Be! Beauty Hot Spot in NYC! We had a blast with host, Stylist Kelly Desario and many celebrity hair gurus like Mario Raimondi and more.

It was great to show people how easy it is to maintain a great look with little time. We sat a few of our friends and styled their hair on the go as well as many random people walking by in the streets on NY.

Kelly's crew Reels Hair Artists put together an amazing presentation with their hot hair models. The crazy up-do's and amazing make up tips where a hit! We showed people that its not hard to look great with little to no time at all.

Kelly also highleted the fact that celebrity stylist should be in the forefront of the industry as well as the celebrities themselves. We stylsit make people look good! "We are the trend setters", Mario Raimondi.

Check out this video on the Be! Hot Spot and stay tuned for more....

BE! Beauty Hot Spot - NYC 7/28/2011 from Yoisen Rosales on Vimeo.

Client Retention

You may know that some clients are more challenging than others. With that said, every client is unique and adds definition to each and every haircut. The challenge is to handle these situations professionally. Sometimes you can’t resolve the problem in one sitting.

When a client arrives to your salon/shop always remember to keep them comfortable and greet them with a smile, good morning, good afternoon, etc. This sets a good portion of the tone for the rest of their experience and visit in the chair. Letting them know you are aware of their presence is a great way for them to sit back and know that you are taking the next step to accommodate them as quickly as possible. If you have a receptionist or host at your salon/shop they can also offer a beverage or any other amnesties you may provide to your clients.

Once you have your client in the chair make sure you are ready to commit to this person 150% while they are in your chair. You can start with making sure they have everything they need to get started. For example, you can ask if they need to utilize the bathroom or if they need a drink or even if you need to hang up their coat or hat. Make sure your client is comfortable and ready to discuss what they want to do.

Having the client in your chair is now an opportunity for you to ask how they have been since the last visit or how the previous hair style worked or didn’t work for them. What products have they been using and what they would like to see different. Once you have established a focal point in what they want to perceive in their hair style you can go on with the next step.

Make sure you have an exact execution plan when tackling the hair style your client has asked you to perform. As you begin to service your client let them know what you are doing and how you’re going make them look great. Let your client know that you are going to get them closer to their goal every time they sit in your chair by allowing you to work on what they envision.

After you have met your client’s goal, make sure you walk them through what you have done. Educate your client and let them know what product they need to maintain their hair style and how important it is to care for their hair. Show them the difference from when they first walked in and how you have improved the way they look. Follow up with a positive remark and how they should book their next appointment to maintain the look you have achieved for them.

Keep in mind that keeping a client happy is not an easy task and that as professional we have to give our clients positive input at all times. Remember that once you have a happy client he or she will keep returning again and again.

ASCB’s Organic Pre-Shave Oil

ASCB’s Organic Pre-Shave Oil

Stop irritating your cheeks and neck! Here we have our organic blend pre-shave oil that harmonizes with your razor. If you have sensitive skin or just hard to get hair stubs, then your going to love this oil.

Our organic blend is made of organic safflower oil, organic castor oil, grape seed oil and vitamin E. Apply a small drop into the palm of your hand and massage into your neck and face. Applying the oil firmly in a circular motion will warm up your pores and allow for a much smoother shave.

Once you apply the oil, follow with a hot lather or shave cream of your choice. If possible run hot water on your razor to heat up the blade for an even tighter shave. Achieving a baby faced chin is no longer a challenge when using pre-shave oil.

After your face has achieved a dramatic exfoliating experience you can splash some after shave on your face and neck. Finally apply a cold towel to close your pores and seal in the moisture. If you don’t have a cold towel lying around, try ice cubes in your water bowl and splash some on your face.

Click on this link AMERICAN SHAVE to check out some products that we use at our shop, enjoy!

Behind the Blade

Have you heard of "Behind the Blade"? BTB is a web series brought to you by American Shave Classic Barber(ASCB). In these short videos we show the viewer what it takes to cater to all types of clients. Our clients range from bikers, DJ's to local small business owners that take pride in their appearance.

Take for example episode one. This episode features "Lily" who is a local DJ in the New Jersey/New York area. She comes to American Shave to perfect a Faux-Hawk that Manny the barber/owner of ASCB meticulously executes. She enjoys the comfort and relaxation she gets when she's in the chair. Her style is not only unique but it defines her self-being. Lily loves playing in front of a crowd and showing off her attitude without saying a word!

If you haven't seen any of these episodes, your missing a lot of good stuff. Stay tuned for more episodes coming in the near future! Here's the link Behind The Blade

Stephen "TheSalonGuy" announces his official groomer for the red carpet!

Stephen "The Salon Guy" doesn't only know salons, he also is a professional hair stylist. Stephen is also an educator for the beauty industries heavy hitter Paul Mitchell. Find out what celebrity icons he has interviewed and learn beauty tips from many top-notch professionals. Also catch up with many red carpet discussions by Jerseylicious, Anthony Lombardi, Nick Arrojo, Colin Caruso, Takashi Kitamura and more.

Watch and find out why Stephen "The Salon Guy" looks a bit sharper these days and who his official groomer is for all of his red carpet appearances.

Also stay tuned for more info on his new web series "In The Chair", where Stephen displays how to revive your salon experience and forget about those horrible past situations.

TheSalonGuy August 2011 updates. from TheSalonGuy on Vimeo.

Behind the Blade - Episode 8 featuring Chaz & Chef

American Shave's own Chaz is this month's showcase. From an early beginning Chaz has shown and proved his love for barbering. He has a talent that is not hard to see and embraced by many. In this episode Chaz gets Chef, a NJ nightclub promoter, ready for the night life. See how Chef sits back and lets Chaz take control of an ultimate hair journey into style.

Behind the Blade - Episode 7 featuring Joel & Dave "Bam Bam" Pignator

Behind the Blade episode 7 Features Joel and Dave "Bam Bam" Pignator. In this epsidoe, Joel proves that he has what it takes as a barber. Joel has been cutting Dave's hair since their high school days. Keeping up with the hair trends is not easy, but seven years in the business proves why reapeat clients stay happy.

Dave is a former professional body builder. He trains and coach's MMA professional and up and coming fighters. Dave states, "Training is a lot harder than fighting in the octagon", while he showcases his moves and how to stay focused. The rough fighting and training takes a toll on the body, but the love for his passion keeps his focus in plain view.

It's your choice, make an appointment for a haircut with Joel or call up Dave and start training today for your future fight!

You can call Dave at 908-370-1029 or e-mail him at DPig1029@hotmail.com

Behind the Blade Episode 6 featuring: Ralph & John

When Ralph's appointment cancels last minute, he has no choice but to pick one of our own BTB producers to fill in the slot.

Ralph begins by trying different styles with John. He try's to execute the perfect style but John has something else in mind. John takes a journey into the world of hair and beard profiles until he lands on the look he invisioned.

This episode is a small twist on what we normally feature. Stay tuned for new episodes every 15th of the month!

Behind the Blade episode 5 featuring: Manny & Gabe C.

American Shave is at it again with Behind the Blade Episode 5!

In this episode we showcase Gabe C. President of iRide United Motorcycle crew out of Elizabeth, NJ. Gabe's passion for motorcycles is obvious in this segment when he stops by American Shave for a haircut that defines his style.

Manny, Owner of American Shave takes his part in cutting and shaving Gabe on his down time. You will find out what makes this multi-talented "biker" unique from others.

Make sure you stay tuned for more episodes every 15th of the month!

American Shave Classic Barber - Behind The Blade Episode 4 featuring: Checo The Barber and Ted Slack

Here is Checo The Barber, New York City Barber Battle 2nd Place Winner is "Behind The Blade" to show you his skills.

One of the youngest in today's professional barber industry, Checo proves how influential he can be to those who are still undecided how to start the barber "grind".

In this 4th Episode of Behind the Blade, Checo meticulously shapes and defines Tank Solutions own, Ted Slack's goatee making him sharp and ready to tackle his business feeling fresh and clean.

Make an appointment today and see what it feels like to be pampered by American Shave's own, Checo The Barber!


American Shave Classic Barber - Behind The Blade Episode 4 featuring: Checo The Barber and Ted Slack

NJ Cigar Festival

NJ CIGAR FESTIAL SUNDAY, APRIL 3, 2011


General Admission tickets = $100
VIP tickets = $175



For further information about what the tickets include, please visit our Ticket Info page.

Tired of waiting in line to get your “free” cigars at other events? At the NJ Cigar Festival, we give ‘em to you when you walk through the gates, which means that the rest of the day belongs to you.

You can meet the makers of your favorite sticks at the manufacturers’ booths and learn more about their cigars straight from the source. In fact, some of the manufacturers will be holding open seminars throughout the day. (Presenters and times TBD.)

The NJ Cigar Festival is proud to include some of the Heaviest Hitters in the industry. Click here to visit our Cigar All*Stars page to see who is scheduled to attend.

If you want to purchase cigars, you can do that, too – and at prices lower than those in PA! Just want to sit and have a smoke? No problem. Smoking is allowed in all areas of the festival. And “ball park fare” is included in the cost of your ticket.

A timeline of the day’s presentations will be published in the New Year, and we’ll be posting new info. regularly to this site, including any updates on the Cigar All*Stars that will be attending.

American Shave will be present to shave all guests using a hot lather shave and a straight edge. All shaves will be done on a first come first serve basis and will be included with your ticket purchase. Shave will only be done within the festivals time frame.

Purchase Tickets Here
https://www.njcigarfestival.com/buy-tickets

Behind the Blade Episode 3 Featuring Juan the barber and Steve Wright

Behind the Blade Episode 3 Featuring Juan the Barber and Steve Wright:

Sit back and enjoy this 3rd episode of Behind the Blade and see what everyone has been raving about. Witness the loyalty Steve has for Juan the Barber as Steve engages in “real Talk” in regards to Juan’s barber skills.

Juan is not only a barber but a craftsman. He has the art and skill to style, shave and design the perfect haircut that will make you feel brand new every time you look in the mirror. Don’t be another victim of a bad haircut, make your appointment today with Juan and experience quality.

American Shave Classic Barber - Behind The Blade Episode 1 Featuring DJ: Lily Tobon

American Shave Classic Barber - Behind The Blade Episode 1 Featuring DJ: Lily Tobon

American Shave Classic Barber - Behind The Blade: Episode 2 Jimi The Barber featuring Ankush "Magic Man"

American Shave Classic Barber - Behind The Blade: Episode 2 Jimi The Barber featuring Ankush "Magic Man"