Behind The Chair - Naomi Richardson

Proud Northerner Naomi is Assistant Manager and Barber Extraordinaire based at our Marylebone Barbershop, busily keeping the great and good of prime central London looking sharp.

Here we attempt to delve into why she chose to cross the Watford Gap, why she does what she does and what makes her tick.

What made you get into barbering, and how did you end up at Ruffians?

I’ve been cutting hair since I was 14 years old and a few years back I was looking for a new challenge. My uncle, who lives in nearby, went for a cut at Ruffians Edinburgh barbershop and called me right after to tell me: “I could see you working here”. After that, I looked into barbering in more detail and saw that there was a real movement towards cooler looking shops and a more tailored service, it looked fresher and more interesting than hairdressing. Fast forward three years and here I am, loving every minute!

What’s your favourite thing about Marylebone?

Truthfully, I never pictured myself working in an area like Marylebone, but I actually really like it. There’s such a diverse mix of people (and subsequently clients) here from all walks of life and all from all over the World. My clients consist of professionals working nearby, tourists visiting the shops on Oxford Street and, to my surprise, a good smattering of residents who live nearby. It means I never know what I’ll be chatting about next, and I do love a good chat!

And what’s your best bit of London?

You may have already guessed by the accent but I’ve not been here all that long, so I’m not totally sure I’ve found it yet. I’ve moved four times in four years in the search for somewhere that feels like home. I’m in Brixton currently and the area has a great buzz, I highly recommend it for a night out, there’s some great food and drink spots. Not convinced I’ll be here forever though.

What do you get up to outside of work?

Aside from the obligatory long walks during lockdown, you’re highly likely to find me in the pub or at home attempting to learn new instruments.

What’s your biggest achievement in hair?

Most recently it’s becoming Assistant Manager here at Ruffians. Management was never really in my plans, I was always more into the creative side of what we do, but something clicked and I realised that the two didn’t have to be entirely separate. Also, I’m the busiest I’ve ever been, and that’s one of the most rewarding feelings in this industry - when regular clients become friends over years of work then it doesn’t really feel like work at all.

Quickfire round, one answer as quick as possible…

Nike or New Balance?

Nike

Salt and vinegar or cheese and onion?

Salt and vinegar

Indian or Chinese takeaway?

Indian

Tea or coffee?

Coffee

Pub or club?

Pub

Dogs or cats?

Dogs

Summer or Winter?

Winter

A party with Boris or a fight with Chuck Norris?

Fight with Chuck

North or South?

NORTH OF COURSE!

If you like what you hear and fancy a mint trim in Marylebone, book in with Naomi.