Searcey opens new barber shop in Hixson

Barber Debbie Searcey recently opened Shave and a Haircut at 5407 Hixson Pike. Photo by Emily Crisman

Barber Debbie Searcey brings 20 years of shear experience to Shave and a Haircut, her new Hixson shop opened in March.

Searcey owned her own shop in Nashville before moving to Sale Creek and working in a shop in Hixson for two years.

She chose her Hixson location to be close to her already established customer base, as well as to take advantage of the exposure Hixson Pike provides.

"I'm not looking to compete with anybody," she said. "I just want to make a living, do a good job and make my customers want to come back, and hopefully be here until I retire."

Her services extend beyond that of a typical barber shop to include perks such as deluxe steam towel facial shaves, which are done using a straight razor and followed by a facial massage. Searcey is also proficient in a broad range of men's hairstyles as well as offering eyebrow waxing, hair color and highlights.

"There's more pampering involved than just a barber shop," she said.

Through the end of April, Searcey is offering all haircuts for the discounted price of $10. She also regularly gives a discount for children under 17 and clients over the age of 65.

"I think the quality of my haircuts are worth more than I charge," said Searcey. "With the economy the way it is, I think it's important there's a haircut they can afford."

Searcey said the superior look of her cuts is due in part to her extensive training in razor-cutting technique.

"[Razor cutting] helps hair that's unmanageable and unruly," she said. "Depending on the hair, it lays better and looks better."

Searcey gives each client individualized service, evaluating their head shape and hair type in order to determine the best cut for that particular person.

Every cut includes a complimentary hot lather neck shave, she said.

Searcey said the most rewarding aspects of her profession are the relationships she develops with her clients and their reaction to the quality of her haircuts.

"I want to be their personal barber," she said. "They're not just a number to me, but a potential friend, and someone I want to continue coming for a long time."

"All they need to do is have one haircut and they'll be hooked," said client Larry Cate.

Searcey said her complete hot lather head shaves have been very popular, and she also does a lot of high-and-tights for men and Justin Bieber styles for the younger set.

She also does cuts for women at prices much lower than the average salon.

"I think a barber gives a better short woman's haircut," she said.

While Searcey welcomes walk-ins, she requests those who want a deluxe steam towel shave make an appointment for the 30- to 45-minute procedure to avoid a wait.