Meet The Barber: Alex Glover
It goes without saying that when you visit an ADAM atelier, you're guaranteed to get a great haircut. In part, this is because our spaces draw on the deep history, culture and artistry of the Turkish Hamams, which have been the gold standard in grooming for centuries. But it's also because we are dedicated to finding and recruiting the best barbers from around the world. Whether you're looking for a classic hot towel shave or a modern skin fade, there's a man behind one of our chairs who can create an experience tailored to you. To help you pick, here's a Q&A with Alex, Master Barber at our Harrods Atelier on everything from styling tricky hair to becoming a barber yourself.
Please introduce yourself
I'm Alex Glover. I like to think of myself as a Londoner as I have lived here over half my life. Originally from Cambridgeshire. I studied Product Design before becoming a hairstylist. This combination supports my interest in grooming products and their integration into Barbering.
Tell us a little bit more about your role in Harrods
I've joined ADAM at an exciting time - the company having opened in the most prestigious department store in the world. I have previously helped establish and run a barbershop at Liberty department store so I am familiar with that sort of operaion. At Harrods we have to ensure we provide the very best services to the Harrods customer and ensure we educate our clients about our amazing grooming range. Harrods is an amazing store and it is a privilege to be part of the ADAM offering there.
What do you love most about the job?
Apart from the instant satisfaction you get when you transform someone's haircut or beard (especially after lockdowns!) I love the social aspect of the job - meeting new people and hearing their story and connecting with their interests is what it is all about for me. London is full of amazing people from all over the world - this hopefully will never change.
What made you become a barber?
I had always been interested in style and fashion - having grown up with a family that were bohemian and musical. After moving to London and completing my design course I changed direction slightly and decided to give the industry a go and loved it!
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself
I can paint portraits.
What's one grooming tip you always tell men?
I think there has to be one for hair, one for face and one for beards:
1: Apply hair product with a light hand to avoid clumping and heavy looking finishes.
2: Use a moisturiser to preserve your looks
3: If trimming your beard at home, judge the shape and finish by stepping back from the mirror to see the bigger picture - don't keep cutting every little but of fuzz away as you will be there all day and end up over grooming it.
How have you spent lockdown?
Lockdown 1: gardening, decorating my flat, baking sourdough. Lockdown 2 - enjoying the summer between working from home. Lockdown 3 working from home on various ADAM projects.
What are three products you can't live without?
Texture paste - it is perfect for styling my curls. Moisturiser - ADAM skincare has fixed my adult acne! Beard oil - for keeping it soft and preventing irritation.
What's your advice for becoming a barber?
Stay focused on your career path to barbering - there are different ways to train - I'd recommend apprenticeships if you can get on one. Don't give up. Practice makes perfect!
What product should every man have?
A shaving brush - a great tool for a closer shave and a simultaneously sensory experience during your shaving ritual.
How do you get the most out of your trip to the barber, are there any hints and tips on how you should communicate what you want?
Try to avoid using jargon you have heard in other hairdressers or barbers chair as this can lead to confusion. Talk in plain language about what you want removed or how you want it to look. Pictures are a good resource!
What are you most looking forward to post lockdown?
I'm looking forward to travelling again - I can't wait to visit Anatolia now I have a connection with a Turkish owned and inspired brand!
