Barbering during quarantine

by Aloysius Jackson

For someone whose survival depends on their skill, master barber Justin Williams was thoroughly worried when he was forced to unplug his clippers.

(Photo: Justin Williams)

On March 31, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster ordered the closing of all non-essential businesses. Justin has a fiance, one girl, three little boys, and is expecting another baby boy to be delivered anytime now. He also just moved into a bigger house.

“JusKutz Barbering Studio is not only essential to me and my community but my family as well,” said Justin. “I need to put food on our table.”

With a disappointed look on his face, Justin knew he had to began calling clients who had already booked appointments and explain to them the news he had received. He assured them services as soon as possible. For Justin and his clients, this was sooner than expected.

At JusKutz Barbering studio a standard haircut is $30. Within a few days of closing, that price doubled for all of his clients. Justin began a new service called “House-Calls.”

“Supply and demand,” said Justin, as he explained to a client why the price had gone up. “I’m risking my safety for you to look good while you’re sitting in your house.”

Justin is only comfortable doing “House-Calls” for loyal clients who have been with JusKutz Barbering Studio for quite some time. He makes exceptions for very few.

“Since I’ve doubled my price and I’m still getting a steady flow of clients, me and my family are doing okay for right now,” said Justin. But he still worries because he doesn’t know how long this will last.

In case you don’t know me, I’m Aloysius. You can refer to me as Lo. Thank you for the readership! Don’t forget to wash your hands as frequently as possible and practice social distancing. I hope you are well and safe.