Few things can brighten someone’s day as much as a fresh cut. Barber Kyra Hornung is literally a master at her craft. She takes exceptional care in giving her clients the best look possible. To her, it is not enough to just give you a great cut. She is committed to creating a work of art.
You have built a great brand as a master barber. Share with us the key to your success.
It’s as small as showing up every day and acting as if my goals are already achieved. I’m cutting everyone as if they had a red carpet interview later, so when that day comes, it’s nothing new to me. Every time I reach a goal, it doesn’t feel different and the bar automatically raises.
With so many people cutting hair these days, how do you set yourself apart?
I put art above everything else. I’m not in this field of work to do as many cuts as I possibly can. I’m also honestly not the most talkative of barbers either. I like to focus in on my craft and make sure your next two weeks are flawless.
Do you prefer to cut hair by appointment or walk in? Do you work on location?
Honestly, my ADHD prefers walk-ins and being a traveling barber. I like the steady stream and change of scenery cutting on location. I like being surprised by my favorites on a busy day,. Even if it’s been stressful, I see certain people walk in and I know we’re gonna be laughing the whole haircut.
If you had to pick one, what product would you say is a must-have for any serious barber?
I would have to say the Oster octane. It’s been around forever, and it’s still around for a reason. Wouldn’t recommend for a beginner, (I definitely would’ve accidentally messed someone up) but is a must need in your arsenal once you’re used to handling clippers and different hair textures.
What do you think are the most common misconceptions about being a barber?
It would have to be that women can’t cut hair, or that it’s a medial job. I know many female barbers that cut better than men with 20 years in the game. It’s an art form at the end of the day. There are no gender-based physical requirements. I can’t tell you how many of my clients recommend me to their coworkers and friends. At the same time, I’ve had people walk away or right past me because they don’t believe I can do my job.
Through being a barber, I could build a village with the people I know. Barbers get to be an integral part of the community. I know tradesmen, craftsmen, artists, mental health workers, teachers, coaches, etc etc. and give everyone refreshed confidence. I get to hop on a plane and do what I love with a change of scenery. There’s nothing medial about it.
There are a vast number of different styles of cuts. Do you have a favorite?
It depends on the person and what would look best on them. But I’d have to say a taper fade with a full beard. I do love seeing my client Shonn… He’s down for any type of design or haircut, and I can really let my creative side shine with him. We’ve done designs with simple line work to entire optical illusions in his hair.
Were than any obstacles you experienced specifically due to your gender?
Jealousy doesn’t have a gender. In fact, I feel it myself. But when you’re a minority in an industry, and you’re good at what you do, you get a lot more of it. Being able to tell myself that the things I was dealing with meant I was doing something right takes a lot and I’m still not great at it.
I had a tough time when I first started out. I was 19, easily walked over, and not confident in myself. It wasn’t until I met another female barber who became somewhat of a mentor for me that my outlook changed a lot. People still make lewd remarks and doubt my abilities, but it’s easier to brush off now. My work speaks for itself.
Tell our readers some of the things they should consider when choosing a barber.
Find a barber that fits your personality and has the skills to give you the haircut you’re looking for. I like to focus on the process of the haircut.
If you’re looking for a quiet barber with a good sense of humor and the desire to give you the best haircut possible, then we’re an excellent fit.
What would you say to a client who wanted a style that would look horrible?
I’ve had a few people that wanted a weird haircut, and every time I ask them to tell me their goal with their hair, and why they want it. I’m honest to a fault sometimes and I’ll joke around and tell them my opinion if they ask for it. I tell them how it could take away from their appearance or features. Usually they’re dead set on it, so I’ll do it. They’ve left overjoyed and come back for the same cut two weeks later.
For celebrities and reps looking to join your client list, what’s the best way to contact you?
The best way to reach me to book an appointment is through my business Instagram, @cutsbykyra. I also post some of my art on there as well. I do portraits in charcoal and pencil.