Manly Village Barber

One of Manly’s long-standing businesses, the Manly Village Barber, recently moved downstairs to a cosy, ground floor location, next to The Local Café.

The barbering business was started around 22 years ago by Mel Lewin’s mother, Wendy. While Mel had not intended a career as a barber, she was happy to take over about 16 years ago, when her mother called it quits.

By her side was experienced barber Nikki Bunyan, who had also worked with Mel’s mother.

Mel and Nikki work well together (Mel is part-time) and have built a solid following among local men who want a quick, no fuss, quality haircut.

“They also like to chat, and so do I,” Mel says. “But if a client just wants to chill, that’s fine too. We make them comfortable and then conversation flows or we just listen.”

Nikki says every head of hair is different, and that keeps her interested and challenged.

“It’s nice to tidy people up and make them feel good,” she says. “You are always learning – we listen to what people want, whether it’s quite traditional or the latest thing, and accommodate that.”

The new space has been tastefully decorated with a masculine vibe that includes antique tools on the wall collected by Mel, some gifted by customers.

As well as being more physically accessible, the online booking system means no waiting for a haircut.

“We do walk-ins if we have a gap, but booking online creates a good flow,” Mel says.

Business Directory: Barber Manly Village