By Michael Canipe on December 1, 2023
Winter Haven, FL – In the bustling heart of Winter Haven, Florida, a unique establishment stands out not just as a barber shop but as a symbol of tradition and community spirit. The Vintage Barber Lounge, opened recently by John Cruz, a skilled barber with over two decades of experience, and his wife and partner Cindy, is redefining the grooming experience in Central Florida. John with a remarkable 25 years of experience in barbering has taken a bold step from working in construction to pursuing his passion full-time. The Vintage Barber Lounge is his dream realized—a place where men and young boys are not just groomed but are also encouraged to embrace their best selves.
An Oasis of Grooming and Relaxation
The services at The Vintage Barber Lounge go far beyond the traditional haircut. Clients can enjoy a range of treatments including beard grooming, hot towel shaves, mini facials and face massages. What truly sets the lounge apart is its commitment to an all-encompassing experience – one that includes complimentary whisky, color treatments and a host of other amenities. The lounge is designed to be a vintage man-cave, replete with antiques and a theme that harkens back to the golden era of barbering.
More Than Just Haircuts
However, The Vintage Barber Lounge is not just about haircuts and shaves. It serves as a hub for various community services like notary, tax assistance, credit repair and even legal documents. This unique blend of services underlines John’s vision of a barber shop that plays an integral role in the daily lives of its patrons.
Reviving the Art of Barbering
John’s ambitions extend well beyond the daily running of the barber shop. He envisions opening a barber school in the next five years, aiming to bring back the prestige and artistry of the barbering profession. His extensive experience in construction played a crucial role in physically bringing this vision to life, as he personally designed and built the interior of the lounge.
Rooted in Community Spirit
John and Cindy’s connection to Winter Haven, where they have lived for five years, runs deep. This bond is evident in their active participation in local initiatives, including child welfare support through the Guardian ad litem program since 2015.
A Hub for Community and Connection
The Vintage Barber Lounge is a community center at its core. It honors veterans with special discounts and engages in local activities such as school drives and holiday events. The lounge even boasts a friendly golden retriever “Cody” as its mascot, adding to its welcoming atmosphere.
A Vision for the Future
As The Vintage Barber Lounge continues to grow, John and Cindy are looking to expand their team, aiming to fill all eight barber stations. Their vision includes not only training new barbers but also empowering them to open their own shops, thereby extending the legacy of The Vintage Barber Lounge.
A Journey of Faith and Possibility
John’s journey with The Vintage Barber Lounge is a testament to his belief in the alignment of opportunities and the power of faith. He views the opening of the lounge and the positive developments in his life as pieces of a puzzle falling into place, guided by a higher power. This philosophy of faith and possibility is deeply ingrained in the ethos of The Vintage Barber Lounge.
An Invitation to Transformation
John’s philosophy is simple yet profound: “Take it a day at a time, work hard, and get a good haircut.” The Vintage Barber Lounge stands as an invitation to all to experience not just a haircut, but a transformation that boosts confidence and rejuvenates the spirit. It’s more than a barber shop; it’s a destination where every gentleman’s potential is recognized and groomed.
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