Carrano’s Barber Shoppe: Bringing Back the Retro Atmosphere

by Vicki Gemmell ◊ Aug 03, 2012

The idea of working corporate never sat well with Hamden’s Ron Carrano.

“When I finished up college, my degree was in management with a minor in economics,”  says Carrano, “but I kept going back to the fact that I always loved the atmosphere of a men’s barbershop.”

Much research and many conversations with his own barber led Ron Carrano to make his decision: this was what he wanted to do. He promptly enrolled in hair school, where he met his wife and learned the skills for his career.

After graduating hair school, Carrano worked in a family-owned barbershop for 15 years. He dreamed of someday opening a barbershop of his own, and he knew exactly what he had in mind. “I wanted something that went back to the old days, that old school barbershop feel.”

And he did just that. Walking into Carrano’s after the ribbon cutting on July 16, you couldn’t help but wonder whether you’d stepped into a time machine. Tastefully decorated with vintage furniture and accessories, the vibe is unmistakably welcoming and nostalgic. The barber chairs are one of the main highlights of the shop. “They are 72 year old, original antique barber chairs that I had completely refurbished,” Carrano says proudly.

Carrano’s Barber Shoppe is impressive in appearance, and beyond. “We’ve been open eight weeks, and we’ve been busy,” he explains. “We’re already averaging between twenty and twenty-five customers per day. It’s far exceeded our expectations.”

Among the dozens of repeat customers are old friends. “People that I haven’t seen in literally twenty years – they hear I’ve opened up a shop and they want to come help,” Mr. Carrano says. “The woman who used to babysit me when I was five years old – she brings her sons. It’s been humbling.”

Keep in touch: ‘Like’ Carrano’s Barber Shoppe on facebook by going to www.facebook.com/CarranosBarberShoppe. Bring this article in for a 50 percent discount on your first haircut (first-time customers only)!

Photo: Interior of Carrano’s Barber Shoppe
Photo Courtesy of Light Thief Photography, LLC, North Haven, Conn.