How to pick your barber shop name

Finding choosing from your list of barber shop names tricky? Selecting the right name for your business is a really important decision that can have a big impact on how your business fares. It plays a role in your identity, marketing strategy, success and even the types of customers you’re working with.

It’s estimated that there are over 48,000 hair and beauty businesses in the UK, so getting the right name’s important so that you stand out—for all the right reasons.

Why’s it important to get the right barber shop name?

You might be tempted to just go with the first name you think of, go for something simple or run with someone else’s suggestions. It’s worth a bit more thought that that—barber shop names are important. 

Here are some key reasons why choosing the right name for your business is so important:

• Making the right first impression—our business name is often the first point of contact between your company and potential customers. It creates a lasting first impression and sets the tone for your brand.
• Brand Identity—a well-chosen name can help establish your brand's identity. It should reflect your business, its values and what it stands for. This identity influences how your target audience perceives your products or services.
• Memorability—a memorable name is easier for customers to recall, making it more likely that they will remember your business when they need your products or services. A catchy name can also make it easier for people to share word-of-mouth referrals about your business.
• Differentiation—your business name can help you stand out in a crowded marketplace. It should distinguish you from your competitors and communicate what makes your business unique.
• Marketing and promotion—your business name will be featured on your logo, website, business cards, advertising materials and social media profiles. An effective name can make your marketing efforts more successful.
• Online presence—a strong online presence is vital for most businesses. Your business name will likely be part of your domain name and email address. A relevant and easy-to-remember name can enhance your online visibility.

What else to think about when it comes to choosing barber shop names?

Choosing a name that doesn't infringe on existing trademarks is important. While you might want to name it after something that’s popular at the moment, or a type of product you use regularly, it isn’t always worth it. Legal issues related to your business name can be costly and time-consuming to resolve.

Think about how well your business name will adapt to potential future changes too. A name that's too specific, trendy or limiting might stop you from expanding into new products, services or markets. A professional and well-thought-out business name can build trust with potential customers. It suggests that your business is established and takes itself seriously.

Be aware of potential cultural and linguistic things to think about that could affect the perception of your name. What might have a positive connotation in one language or culture could have a negative one in another. Consider where you’re based and who your customers are. The right name can create an emotional connection with your audience, evoke positive feelings and build loyalty.

How to choose your barber shop name

As we’ve already said, getting the right name for your barber shop’s important. A catchy and memorable name can help your business stand out in a competitive market and leave a lasting impression on potential customers. Here’s some tips on how to choose your barber shop name.

Are you going for a classic, old-school vibe, or is your shop more modern and trendy? Make sure the name aligns with the atmosphere you want to create for your clients. Think about the type of experience you want to offer, and let that guide your naming choices.

Avoid generic names that could be easily confused with other barber shops. You want your name to be unique and memorable so that customers can easily find and recommend your business. Creative, one-of-a-kind names tend to leave a lasting impression.

Incorporate your location into your barber shop's name, especially if it's in a prominent or easily recognisable area. This can help potential customers identify your shop's proximity and remember it more easily, plus it can help when people are doing social media or Google searches for your business.

While it's important to communicate what you offer, try not to limit your shop's potential by including words like "men's" or "gentlemen's" in the name. These terms may exclude potential female or gender-neutral customers. Consider using a name that's more inclusive, and even think about that when you’re doing your price lists.

Wordplay can make your barber shop's name more fun and memorable. Incorporate puns, alliteration, or clever combinations of words. For example, "Clip It Good", "The Cutting Edge", or "Shear Elegance" are all examples of playful barber shop names.

Before you become too attached to a name, make sure it's not already trademarked or in use by another business, especially in the same industry. A quick online search and a visit to Companies House can help you discover whether or not your business name’s ok.

Long and complicated names can be challenging to remember. Aim for brevity and simplicity. A concise name is easier for customers to recall, type into search engines or tell their friends about. Once you've brainstormed a list of potential names, bounce them off friends, family or colleagues. Gather feedback to gauge their reactions and identify the names that resonate most positively.

Common mistakes when choosing a barber shop name

There are some common mistakes when choosing a barber shop name, and being aware of them can help you avoid issues. Here are some of the most common mistakes:

• Choosing a name that is overly generic, such as "Barber Shop" or "Hair Salon," can make it difficult for your business to stand out in a crowded marketplace. It may also lead to confusion with other similar businesses.
• A name that’s difficult to spell or pronounce can make it challenging for potential customers to find you online or through word of mouth. Keep it simple and easy to remember.
• Lengthy names can be more difficult to remember. Short and concise names are generally more effective.
• Failing to research and ensure that the name you choose is not already used by another business can lead to legal complications and confusion. Always check for trademarks to avoid potential legal issues.
• Choosing names that aren’t culturally sensitive.
• Failing to gather feedback from friends, family, or potential customers can lead to the selection of a name that doesn't resonate with your target audience.
• While trendy names might be appealing initially, they can quickly become outdated. Consider whether your chosen name will stand the test of time.

Ideas for barbershop names

Barber shops often have names that show tradition, style or masculinity but that isn’t always the best route to go down. While there is a wide variety of barbershop names, there are some common themes and examples that you can take some inspiration from.

Choosing the right name for your barber shop is important, as it can set the tone for your business and attract customers. Here are some creative and inspiring barber shop name ideas to consider:

• The Grooming Gallery
• The Dapper Den
• Classic Cuts & Co.
• The Sharp Scissors
• The Barber's Chair
• Urban Shear Society
• Mane Street Barbers
• The Whisker Whisperers
• The Rustic Razor
• Gentlemen's Edge
• Clip & Trim Club
• The Modern Mane
• The Mane Attraction
• Style & Shear Studio
• The Mane Event

Choosing a barber shop name’s an exciting and important part of starting your business. It's an opportunity to convey your shop's personality and style to the world. You can come up with a name that reflects your shop, is memorable, and sets you on the path to success. You want to resonate with your target audience to keep customers coming through the door.

Specialist barber shop insurance through Ripe

Now that you know how to name your barber shop, you may want to get specialist insurance to protect your business. 

Specialist barber shop insurance arranged by Ripe includes up to £10m Public and Products Liability cover and up to £5m Treatment Risk cover as standard. You can also add cover for your equipment up to the value of £250k, so you don’t have to replace it out of your own pocket if it’s damaged or stolen. 

You can also choose additional cover options, such as Employers' Liability and Buildings cover, so you're only ever paying for the cover you need. 

Click here to learn more about how we can help, or get an instant online quote today.