"Clean, Sharp, and Handsome"

The hair cutting-grooming & whimsical lifestyle newsletter

of

George Bruno

...for men only 

MAY 2012

As a commercial actor/spokesperson, I know what it takes to look good!

Just call for an appointment 267-261-3240

I love to cut hair ...and it shows!

My passion is to make you look the best that you can possibly be.

I style the hair of fellow actors, models, and business people.

Everyday I hear "This is the best haircut I have ever had" and "Finally someone has brought Manhattan-style cutting to the Philadelphia area".

Mom has brown eyes. Dad has brown eyes. I have brown eyes.

My Dad cut hair. My Mom cut hair. For me cutting hair is almost genetic!

I played in a barber chair and fooled around with beauty & styling implements as a child. It seems that the shears and comb are natural extensions of my hands.

If anyone was "born to cut hair" it is me!

OK Bruno...What do your clients say about you?

George Bruno provided me with the ultimate grooming experience. It is clear that providing this experience is his PASSION. I've always been very picky about haircuts, and never very happy with them. Until now.  I came in a shaggy mess, and left with a nice retro Boardwalk Empire style cut. He took the time to study the bone structure of my head, so the hair cut would look right. Never had that before. After the cut- hot towels and a straight razor shave, and a nice head and shoulders massage. After getting my hair cut by barbers in New Orleans, Philly, Albany and Buffalo- I've found the best. 

-Ryan-

"I walked in the door after my cut and the most important person in my life, my wife, loved my new look. She gave it a thumbs up and said it was the best style I have ever had. I definitely found my new stylist"
-Robert-

"I knew George Bruno cut the hair of many actors, models, VIP's, and broadcasters. Bottom line, people who make their living with their image trust him and seek him out. I made an appt and not only was it the best cut I ever had, but the best experience I ever had. A thorough consult about my hair, scalp, and nutrition that supports healthy hair and skin. He even mentioned what he called the "holy trinity of beauty" ...Hair, Skin, and Smile. As a woman over 40, I am interested in looking my best and he made me beautiful. A glass of wine, lots of laughing, great motivational conversation, ...and the hands of a master. What's not to like?"
-Rachel-

"When I see George, he intuitively knows what style looks best for my head, face, and career. While I was waiting once, I heard the client before me just tell him to do his magic.
Now, when I see him, that's all I have to say "George, do your magic".
-Christine-

 I recently played a doctor in a commercial

Your Spring Hairstyle!
Now that we've had a few warm days, have flung the windows open, mowed the grass a few times, and maybe got a little sunshine, many people ask for shorter styles now.
This is common for this time of year. Many sport a longer style in the fall and winter months and spring signifies newness, freshness, and coming out from "hibernation". I hear things like "make it shorter", "make it lighter", "give something easy to care for".
I love doing mini-makeovers where I reduce the hair volume, do a more extensive undercut, and provide a cut that is actually easier to wash, dry, and then style-and-go". My "Spring Style" actually is easier to care for, takes less shampoo, conditioner, and less time to dry. That doesnt neccessarily mean a drastically shorter style. Many short haircuts end up "spiking" the hair in those trouble areas and calics. I see more Little Rascals "Alfalfa Cuts" in May/June than any other time of year! I pay special attention to keep them a little longer enabling them to still lay on the head. If the hair is cut too short, you get that "Alfalfa" look. For the best cut, your stylist needs to study your scalp, bone structure, and hair growth patterns. If your stylist does not do this, please ask them to. I support my fellow stylists and profession, BUT if you are not happy with what you have been getting, then come to me. I do my consult with everyone. This helps me create a cut that is naturally you. It takes a little more time, but you will see it is worth it. I take the time ...so you don't have to.

HTB: The Holy Trinity of Beauty
If you've heard me speak at any events or shows, you've heard me mention HTB .. "The Holy Trinity of Beauty". Basically they are Hair, Skin, and Smile. When I teach actors and models, I always reference the HTB. I inventory the three on a scale of 1-10. Each is worth ten points. The perfect score is 30. Hair is objectively evaluated on shine, feel, color, and physical health. Skin is evaluated on clarity, moisture content, and glow. Smile is evaluated on the classic phrase that "Teeth must be Tight, Bright, and White".  When you look at classic beauty, what you are really seeing is healthy hair, healthy skin, healthy teeth. You don't have to look like George Clooney or Grace Kelly to be beautiful. The hairstyles, make up, and basic media-training all add to the beauty that naturally exists.
I can help you with the hair part. Even though I do skincare, I will soon be attending an aesthetician and make-up training school to officially round out what I offer. I can't wait to launch those services. As far as teeth, I know the best dentist in the area that I can refer you to. 
Keep in mind, that the person who cuts your hair and enhances your skin should also look great. I try to practice what I preach. As a commercial actor, model, and spokesperson, I know what it takes. The dentist I know and his family have the best smiles I have ever seen. It's a no-brainer.
On all the TV home shows, they always say the best home improvement projects that yield the best returns are improving the kitchen and bathroom. There is never a downside to improving those areas of your home. That money comes back when you sell your home in a healthy market.
As far as your image, anything you do with the "Holy Trinity of Beauty", will yield great results. Well-groomed, healthy people go farther in life, make more money, have better social opportunities, and are great role models for others.
Take the HTB challenge and step up those three items a little. Come spend an hour with me and I'll help you release the star that already exists in you! Just call for a private appointment. You won't be disappointed.

Gray/Silver Hair?

I am of the belief that gray, silver, white, and salt & pepper hair is hot looking, natural, and can be sexy & attractive if you have the right cut, are conditioned properly, and use the right product. Talk to me and I'll help you if you are at a "salt & pepper crossroads" Some of my best friends are silver sisters & brothers who are "gray and proud". It just takes a little encouragement from a silver advocate to help you transition.

"Dos Equis Beer Most Interesting Man in the World". The most popular advertising campaign in the past decade featured the salt and peppered Jonathan Goldsmith

I may not be the most interesting man in the world, but I am the most interested man in the world. Interested in you, your health, your image, and your success.

Stay beautiful my friends ...and keep'em coming back for more!

Do you know anyone who would benefit from Executive Presence Coaching/Media Training? Helping you look and sound your best ...is what I do best. Whether it be on stage, in the boardroom, or in front of a camera, or behind a microphone, I can help you be the star that you need to be for your career ladder, acting career, or good old fashioned confidence training. No psycho-babble here, even though I have a Masters degree in Counseling Education. My students and peers have nicknamed me "Professor Practical". You will hit the ground running the very next day after your first session. Email for details. I assure you, after ten sessions, you will be a new person.

The Wife/Girlfriend Department

                                              A Kissing Guidebook from the 1930's              

Judas did it to Jesus. Britney Spears did it to Madonna. Prince Charming did it to Sleeping Beauty. Sometimes women have to do it to frogs. And clinicians who study it are called Philematologists.
A kiss. Kissing. Yep kissing. It means many different things in various cultures and eras. It can mean betrayal, love, affection, as well as welcome home.
Guys listen up. When women talk to each other about men, one of the things they may talk about is how he kisses. A gal goes on a date, has a nice time, she talks to her friend the next day. If he was a good kisser, everything else was great, no matter what. If he isnt a good kisser, there may not be a second date, lol. Alot of people kiss alot while they are dating and unfortunately it decreases and maybe even stops after they get married. I just read a quote in the May Prevention magazine that said that couples that kiss often are 8 1/2 times less stressed out and tired than those that don't kiss often. I didnt say it, the study revealed that. Are you a kisser? If you're not, I bet she wouldn't mind if you were. It costs you nothing, takes a little forethought, consideration, and will yield quick results ...even if those results are her saying "Wow! what happened to you!"
This may be weird for you to hear a guy to talk to you about this. Yeah, I know. I wrestled with bringing you this topic a little too. But what have you or I have to lose by approaching this topic a little? You only have something to gain. But just man-to-man here, it's important. Let's get into it now.

This cracks me up: An illustration from the 1930's book, The Art of Kissing.  

As one scientist with way too much time on his hands said: "People remember their first kiss more than their first sexual experience probably because kissing is such an active process. Our brains are totally engaged during kissing. The amount of neuro real estate associated with our lips is disproportionately enormous and when we have those really important kisses, we are most likely coding them so we can remember the experience later" 

OK ...make sure no one is around you as you read this. You wouldn't want to be seen trying to learn how to be romantic, would you? LOL

Yep, I consulted with several of my female friends both married and single about this data. Women are not afraid to talk about this stuff like men are.
This is what they shared with me. I report, you decide, lol

The Man-with-No Clue guide to kissing his wife/girlfriend

1. Make sure those lips of yours aren't dry - moistening them (but not too much) makes it easier for your lips to slide over your partner's. Use colorless, stick lip balm for best results. Squeezable balm will work too but use in moderation. You don't want to smear shiny Carmex all over your partner.

2. When French or open mouth kissing, Don't dive straight for the tonsils, lol. Play with their tongue - caress, fondle, wrestle with it. Think of it as trying to massage the other's tongue. NEVER bite. There may not be a second kiss if you do that!

3. Let your wife/girlfriend take the lead sometimes and get used to her style. Give each other chances to lead and you may find a different way you like to kiss. Chances are she has a clue and will take the lead.

4. Close your eyes just before your lips touch. Some people enjoy looking into their partner's eyes when kissing, but for most, it's a huge creepy turn off. Keep them closed and you will enjoy it more. Think about how blind people sense so much more than sighted people, the same principle applies. You will get a more rushing sensation from the touch and feel of a kiss if your eyes are relaxed and closed.

5. Use your hands! Don't let your arms awkwardly hang there. Guys, your hands should be around her back, waist, or on the sides of her face. Also don't be afraid to run your finger's through her hair, just make sure your hair is clean just in case it happens to YOU!

6. Let them know what they are doing is good. Verbal feedback is good. A soft moan, sigh, or kiss back harder if what they are doing is pleasurable.

7. Use that thing in your mouth, your tongue, in the way you want your girl to use hers - both of you will naturally do the same.

8. If you're a bit intimidated by open mouth kissing don't be! It sounds scary only because it is not as easy as a regular kiss, but just do it in small steps. First, start kissing like a normal kiss, then slowly open your mouth and touch your partner's tongue softly with yours. They will get the hint and go from there!

9. Relax! As long as your are comfortable and at ease, your kiss will be pleasurable for both you and your girl. Just empty your mind of everything except the moment at hand and you will master the art of kissing.

10. Maybe there is a "kissing date" in your future? Go "parking" like you used to do when you first started driving and borrow Dad's car. Have fun. Don't be afraid to show affection in public. A fun quick kiss is a happy thing to see and makes people smile. Obviously, sexual stuff or passionate kissing in public is tasteless and inappropriate. You don't want people saying "Hey, get a room, will ya!"

11. Last but not least guys. Make sure your oral hygiene is absolutely impeccable. Lose the bad breath, period. Brush and floss regularly. Make it a nice experience. A kiss should not taste like your last meal, onions, garlic, alcohol, or anything undesirable. Keep her coming back for more!

OK guys...brush your teeth and now go find your woman and pucker up! ;-o

Got a question? Email me. gb@georgebruno.com

Cheers Brothers!

April: First glimpses of Warmth & Sunshine

"Clean, Sharp, and Handsome"

The hair cutting-grooming & lifestyle newsletter

of

George Bruno

...for men only

 As a on-camera commercial spokesperson, I know what it takes to look good!

George Bruno says, Get a haircut, will ya!

Just call for an appointment 267-261-3240

I love to cut hair ...and it shows!

My passion is to make you look the best that you can possibly be.

I style the hair of fellow actors, models, and business people.

Everyday I hear "This is the best haircut I have ever had" and "Finally someone has brought Manhattan-style cutting to the Philadelphia area".

Mom has brown eyes. Dad has brown eyes. I have brown eyes.

My Dad cut hair. My Mom cut hair. For me cutting hair is almost genetic!

I played in a barber chair and fooled around with beauty and styling implements as a child. It seems that the shears and comb are natural extensions of my hands.

If anyone was "born to cut hair" it is me!

Client, Geoff Desiato, sporting my "Midtown Taper", a style made popular on the show Mad Men. A classic handsome easy-care cut with a sharp part, easily groomed & maintained with minimal product

Your Head

The neat thing about hair is that it grows back! You can experiment with different styles, groom it differently, and switch up your look for whatever you need, work or play, business or pleasure!

Let me tell you about my signature custom scissor cut that I am known for. It is a three-phase cut. BUT before I cut your hair, I do a "consult". I ask you questions like "When was the last time your hair was cut?", "Tell me about your daily hair routine", and "Is there anything I need to know about how you style your hair?". There is no such thing as a cookie-cutter haircut. I do not give the same haircut to everybody. I take into consideration various factors such as the shape of your skull, facial structure and features, your hair color and texture, and your growth pattern. I check with you several times during the cut to see if we are on target with your desired look. It is not uncommon for a client to come in and say "Just do your magic", and I cut and style away. I always have great reviews. I cut the hair of many actors, models, and VIP's, people who make a living with their image.

My signature cut is a scissor cut. It is very precise and neat. It grows in nicely and is an easy care cut. Most of my cuts have a few different looks. You can comb them neatly and groom them with various hold and styling products. 

Phase One: Remove Bulk. This is the part where all the hair is hitting the floor. It's like building a foundation for a house.

Phase Two: An "Internal Cut". This is where I may section and pin up hair and cut the undergrowth that causes undesired "puffiness". I may just sweep and hold the hair while I am cutting underneath.

Phase Three: Razor Finish. This is where I put the finishing touches on with tools like a Paul Mitchell Carving Comb or straight razor. The cuts are clean, neat, and minimal hair is falling to the floor at this point.

I then will style your hair with a comb or show you how to do it yourself with your fingers. I'll show you what I believe are the best products. I use stiff pastes, matte no-gloss grooming pastes, spray, gel, or an oil-based product. I use a combination of classic products like Clubman, Pinaud, Lucky Tiger, Paul Mitchell, American Crew, and high end products like Material, and Brocato. You always have a choice of fragrant products like Bay Rum, Classic Clubman, Lime, Citrus, and even my own craft-brewed multi-spice bay rum.

If I see dryness, I will treat it on the spot with a classic three oil tonic or Argan Oil from Morocco.

This is how it ends:

My signature cut is finished with a little hot lather, a straight razor trim on the back of the neck and around the ears. I then put an astringent after shave on the areas where the razor touched. Then I dust you with a classic Clubman powder that your grandfather probably had put on him when he was a young man. You get out of my chair "smelling like a man".

I always do an express "shoulders-up" massage on all clients. I don't do it too long, because I'll  have to wake you up ...it feels so good!

The Wife/Girlfriend Department

Every month I try to impart my vast knowledge of the smarter and better looking sex. Of course, I say that tongue-in-cheek.

Hey guys, if you're like me, you need all the help you can get, lol!

This month we will talk about giving her a scalp massage.

There are many benefits of a scalp massage.

1. It stimulates the blood flow in the scalp. Blood brings oxygen to the hair follicles, which in turn helps her hair grow thicker and healthier.

2. It spreads all that beautiful God-given oil throughout the hair. It's nature's conditioner!

3. It relieves stress in your girl. So many people carry stress in their neck and scalp. When your scalp feels good, you feel good.

4. It's a nice time to escape the pressures of the day. You can have a nice quiet time or use it to talk about things. Stress-free people communicate easier. You make her feel good, which in turn makes you feel good.

5. Scalp massage can be the be all-end all or it can be the precursor to a wonderfully romantic night with the one you love.

How to do it   

A great way is to have her sit on the floor on a pillow while you are on the couch or an easy chair. She is sitting facing away from you and between your knees. Take a full size towel and spritz it with water and put it in the microwave for one to two minutes so it is hot. Roll it up the long way. Now put it around her neck, with the ends hanging down in front of her. A drop of lavender oil on the towel can make it even nicer!

Like I said, you can be watching TV or talking or listening to soothing music. She can have her eyes closed if she chooses.  There is a possiblity that she will fall asleep too and being cradled in-between your knees will keep her secure if she doses off.

Begin by running your fingers slowly like a giant five tooth comb through her hair front to back and back to front.

Stroke your fingertips along the scalp from the forehead to the back of the head, using a repetitive motion. Repeat this step, this time from the sides of the head to the top.
Place your thumbs near the top or back of the head. Massage using your fingertips in small circles as they move across the scalp.

Pay attention to the temple area with very light circular rubbing.

The pressure and speed is up to you and what she is comfortable with.

Finish by running your fingers through her hair from the nape of the neck up through her forehead.

Pay particular attention to her sounds and facial expressions. She will communicate unconsciously with you with little sighs and smiles.

Adding a glass of wine and candlelight just may be the way to make it a date as well. You may not end up staying in the living room for long after!
Hey...I believe old dogs can learn new tricks. It's never too late to start!

And most of all ...have fun guys!
It is a pleasure ...to provide pleasure to the one you love.

  

Cheers Brothers!

February: Turn the winter "Blah's" into the winter "Ah's"

Clean, Sharp, and Handsome

...for men only

February 2012

Get a haircut, will ya!

Call my cell for an appt: 267-261-3240

Don't worry guys; Winter is going to end soon. This just is the time of year that the cold weather gets really old and it's a waiting game.


The perfect time for a relaxing hot towel-hot lather shave, custom scissor cut, facial, and shoulders-up massage. Those of you who have had it know exactly what I am talking about. I actually have guys fall asleep in the chair it is so relaxing.

George Bruno, M.S.

Men's Grooming Expert

Who cuts your hair?
What does he look like? Is he clean cut and well-groomed himself? Does he show interest in your image, your skin and scalp, how you present yourself? If not, then you need someone who does that. Get in here just once ...and I guarantee you'll see the difference.

How do I know?
I get wives, girlfriends, and moms giving me a high-five and calling me saying "that is the best haircut he ever got" and " I'm not allowing him to go anywhere else from now on", and the latest comment "he looks like a new man because of you"
Coming to me is about so much more than the haircut.

The "Don't you know your barber is the most networked guy in the world" department
I cut everybody's hair. Who do you need to meet? I have connections. Just talk to me brother. Drop off the resume, biz cards, whatever.

Who comes to me?
Company presidents, Big Pharma and Biotech dudes, Unemployed guys (free haircuts till you get a job and especially the day before your interview), Judges, Actors, Models, The Guy Next door that works at Wawa, Guys just released from prison that need a new start and fresh look.
I don't care ... Everybody is a somebody in my chair.

Your Hair

Last month I talked about a new style for a new year. I can blend away your grey if you'd like or recommend products to enhance the grey hair.

I have seen more dry brittle hair in the past month, which is typical for December through March. The skin and scalp are a little drier than usual. One of the reasons is that we dont hydrate enough during the colder months. Right? You probably don't drink as much water now as you do in the warmer months. There is no down side to hydrating. Just have your water bottle with you all the time and sip throughout your day or make it a point to take a sip at the water fountain everytime you pass it.

New product alert

Use a little Morroccan Oil on your scalp/hair daily to keep it looking healthy and strong. It's an "ultra-emolient' which means it absorbs quickly. It is not greasy or shiny like other oils. Use the highest quality Pure Morrocan oil (which is from the Argan Tree). It is fairly expensive and can cost $20 for a tiny one ounce bottle, BUT you use only a couple drops in your hands. Rub your hands together and make sure it gets inbetween your fingers too, then comb it with your fingers through your wet hair, then groom or use your fave product. You'll see a difference on the very day you use it. If it slicks your hair too much or looks too shiny or you're leaving finger prints on your smartphone or iPad, then you are using too much. Just back off a little a drop at a time. It's great for color enhanced hair or even silver hair. Make sure you get PURE Argan Oil. If it has other oils in it, it can have a yellowing/brassy look over time.

One of the handsome son-of-a-guns I serve. A "Rockabilly" cut

Have pity on a brother

If you can wash your hair BEFORE you come in, you'll get a better cut because your hair and scalp will be clean and the hair will lay more naturally. I get guys coming in with "bed-head" flat spots and then want me to perform a miracle. I'm good, but not that good. You would need Moses to part that hair. Wash and condition it or I can do it for a little extra.

Is this is your old barbershop? Come see me please

Whats new with me?
I just finished a course on tips for dealing with thinnning hair, and a course on coloring men's hair to look natural. I cut a guys hair in Manhattan last week and would like to maybe go to NYC once a week (Mondays) as a "Visiting Celebrity Barber/Stylist" where I do one-hour full blown appointments of the what I call the RMT (Royal Masculine Treatment). If you know of a high end salon in Manhattan that would like that, let me know. (They are typically closed on Mondays and it would be a money-maker for them too) I will work with eight clients that day.


By now you also know I am a commercial actor, spokesperson, pitchman, and media trainer (I help people look and sound good on camera, behind the microphone, and in face-to-face speaking presentations)
I'm going to be in two short films in February, one commercial, and several newspaper and online ads in the Philly area. I am always looking for more opportunities in film, media, and speaking/training gigs.

INVITE ME TO SPEAK TO YOUR GROUP, COMPANY, ASSOCIATION, TRADE SHOW, CONFERENCE. I can keynote, host, emcee, or do break-away groups.

How do I do it all? I'm single, I prioritize well ...and have the best bunch of cheerleaders in the world ...my friends

I WRITE IT, YOU READ IT. The something-for-everybody department

Need to speak better? Buy my e-book on Amazon. It's less than a subway hoagie.
http://www.amazon.com/Speak-Well-Earn-More-ebook/dp/B005FG1KRQ/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1327932175&sr=1-2


Do you like Cigars, Pipes,Barbershops, Dads, Grandfathers, and Old School Manly Stuff? You'll love this book.
http://www.amazon.com/Smelled-Like-Six-OClock-ebook/dp/B005FG2LZ6/ref=sr_1_4?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1327932301&sr=1-4


Know an artist that wants to take their art from hobby to possibly making a living?
http://www.amazon.com/sell-your-artwork-craft-ebook/dp/B005FG1LGQ/ref=sr_1_5?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1327932364&sr=1-5


Want some tips on how to deal with divorce? It cost less than than a gallon of gas but will get you further.
http://www.amazon.com/Helpful-Rules-After-Divorce-ebook/dp/B005FG1LX4/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1327932461&sr=1-1


This'll scare the shadoobie out of ya
http://www.amazon.com/Sleep-Lights-Perkasie-Chapter-ebook/dp/B005FG2KFM/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1327932674&sr=1-3


I love to write and do it well. As you know, I have a readable conversational style that people enjoy. IF YOU NEED ME TO GHOSTWRITE YOUR BLOG or ARTICLES for you, just call me. I'm not free, BUT It'll cost you to NOT hire me for your regular blogging or copywriting.

The Wife/Girlfriend Department

You are now used to my infinite wisdom on women....NOT!

I just have a few ideas that may be good for you. Sometimes seeing life through another set of eyes is a good thing.

Chivalry & Romance for a new generation of men?

Chivalry is defined as the sum of the ideal qualifications of a knight, including courtesy, generosity, valor, dexterity in arms, and a readiness to help the weak. All of those things seem to be things of the past according to many. The qualities of a knight included the code of chivalry. Is it no wonder that many women have used the phrase “Knight in Shining Armor” when describing their man or a man they desire. Knowing the qualities of a knight might not be a bad thing for a man to know.

Old fashioned courtesy has gone out of style. A man can practice courtesy with his woman from the minute he wakes up whether he is dating or married. I would define that as just deferring to the other. It could be as simple as bringing her coffee in the morning and putting it on her nightstand. It may manifest itself in things like holding the woman’s chair while she sits in a public place, or letting her order first or actually ordering for her at a restaurant (of course after consulting with her). Opening and holding a door for her, and other women. She will notice when you treat other women, especially older women with respect. A knight will put out his hand while a woman is taking a step off a curb or off a platform at the train station. When a man just makes little things like this a practice in everyday life without expecting anything in return, he becomes an all-around better person. Valor is a mindset that enables a man to encounter danger with firmness. Now in our culture, we don’t encounter danger much, but here is how to practice valor. When walking on a sidewalk in the city, the man should walk closest to the road. This is a protective measure, not only from traffic, but also from splashes of water or slush in the winter. The knight would rather put himself in “peril” or get soiled. The knight will always put himself between any danger or threat. Protecting her is a priority. The knight will sleep on the side of the bed closest to the door in the bedroom as to offer protection in case of an intruder. The knight is always ready to honor, defend, and protect. Men do you see your self as a romantic? As a knight? Most likely no. What I propose is that you see yourself as that knight. The knight has no ego and the only battle he wins is the one when his woman’s safety, security, comfort, and honor is being threatened or compromised. Never win an argument with her. If you“win”, you actually lose.

The knight uses manners in public and in the home. He says “No, thank you”, not just “No”. He says “Yes, please”, not just “Yeah”. He models this for his young daughter and son. His daughter will know what to expect from a boy when she starts socializing. He models chivalry and respect for his son when he starts being interacting with girls. Believe me, nothing makes a man more proud than to see his own kids practice respect and receive respect from others. A young man shows up to take my daughter to her first dance, he had a suit on, gave her flowers, told her she looked beautiful, and held the door for her. When she texted me a picture of them during the dance and told me how good things were going, I was a proud Dad, and one that was proud of how that boys parents raised him. A knight in the making I thought.

Can an old dog learn new tricks? Can a grown man become a knight, practice chivalry and become a romantic? The answer is a resounding “yes!”

Cheers brothers! ...now get a haircut will ya!

New Year, New Look?

Clean, Sharp, and Handsome

 ...for men only

January 2012

Get a haircut, will ya!

Call my cell for an appt: 267-261-3240

George Bruno
Men's Grooming Expert

Man to Man

A new year means new beginnings for you. New goals, new dreams, new relationships, new attitudes. Can there be a new look in the new year for you? You know people judge you immediately upon seeing you. It takes about 3 seconds for someone to "size you up". Unfortunately they are doing it only based upon what they see. What are they seeing? Are they seeing a hair style that is 5 years behind? Is it a comb-over? Is it a hair color that is too dark or not natural looking? This is the year that your style can change. Being an image professional, I know the importance of looking good at work, in the marketplace, in sales meetings, in public situations. I'm not talking about the type of appearance that is fake and pretentious. I'm talking about looking good ...naturally. A nice custom haircut, not a generic one-size-fits-all cut. One that is for your head, face, and enhances your look. Is this the year that you start or stop coloring your hair? I'm the guy to consult with on issues like that. I can show you all your options, including going all-natural gray or salt-n-pepper if you have some silver hiding in there. Just talk to me. You'll be glad you did.

Media-Training

Media-training is for anyone who has to be behind a microphone or in front of a camera. I can show you how to look, what colors to wear, how to speak, how to respond to the press, what to do with your hands, and how to properly use pauses and silence as oposed to nervous "ums" and "uhs". As an experienced commercial actor and spokesperson, I can help you look and sound your public best.

Your Hair

I said it last month in my newsletter and probably will mention it for the next few months. You need to condition your hair and scalp. I'm the guy who sees head after head that needs "intervention". A good conditioner in the shower is good along with a leave-in conditioner/groomer. It'll soften your hair, make it less static, and control the coarser, greyer hair on your head. I use Lucky Tiger hair tonic on alot of men followed by a hot steamy towel. That moisturizes, repairs, and prevent dryness during the cold winter months. Jojoba oil is great for the scalp as is Tea Tree Oil. Apply to scalp and roots and not to hair. Sleep with it on. Put a towel on your pillow to prevent oil stains on your pillow cases. Shampoo and condition in the morning with the higher end shampoo and conditioner. Do ME a favor and don't use soap on your hair. It causes a filmy build-up and dries the scalp and hair.

Your Face

Ever get a traditional straight razor shave with hot lather and hot steamy towels? You must treat yourself. It is an experience that you can never do yourself. It removes the beard stubble below the skin because it is stretched before the blade passes over it. Many men get it done once a week. I take my time, you get a facial scrub, the shave, moisturizer, and a facial massage. Add it to a haircut for the ultimate royal masculine treatment. You won't be disappointed.

Kids

We welcome fathers and sons coming together for a true bonding experience.

The Girlfriend/Wife Department

This is a good time to start taking walks together. It'll get you both into better shape, may start a "talking time" that you don't currently have, and will "magically" draw you closer.

Have a day with no texting or emails and write a letter instead. Do that once a week. A letter written on paper with a pen creates something that can last a lifetime. It slows down your thinking, you communicate more deliberately, and she will love it. Don't worry about being eloquent or fancy. Just be you. Write like you speak. You'll get immediate positive feedback.

Speak Well, Earn More, Part 2
Good speakers are made, not born. Good speakers become great speakers with the proper training. Investing in professional speaker training can greatly improve your bottom line.
 

There is no downside to improving your speaking skills. The National Speakers Association is just the place to hone your stagecraft. A good place to start may even be your local Toastmasters chapter.

The key to effective speaking boils down to one thing: The ability to be able to tell a compelling story. I was taught years ago that effective advertising was reduced down to the acronym A-I-D-A, which stands for 1.) Attract their ATTENTION. 2.) Stimulate their INTEREST 3.) Create DESIRE and 4.) Move them to ACTION. Creating an effective speaking presentation is not much different than those guidelines. When we speak, we are actually selling. We are trying to communicate or get someone to adopt truths, facts, inspire action, etc. How many times has someone in your life said to you, “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it”? Most of us have heard that. We have all worked with very accomplished, well-educated people who are absolutely brilliant in their field, but when they spoke, they almost put us to sleep. How many of us have listened to an individual who was charismatic, compelling, and attractive and then when it was all done, you ask yourself, “What did they just say?” or you don’t remember a thing they said. It was all show with no substance. To get on the road to more effective speaking, you must master what you say AND how you say it. The best way is in a story-type format. In my sales training over twenty years ago I was taught that “facts tell, stories sell”. Stories or story-type speaking bring a message to the heart and mind of the audience. One such method is what I call the PSOx3 speaking template. It is a no-brainer method for creating compelling speeches. This stands for presenting a Problem, Solution, and Outcome and doing it three times during the presentation. This humanizes the presentation and it allows the listener to relate to the issue presented. It creates a mental picture which makes the topic more memorable. Here’s an example. Let’s use a motivational topic that goes like this; “John Smith had only twenty dollars in his pocket. He was laid off with no possibility of being rehired. His position was outsourced overseas. He had two kids in private school and a baby at home. His wife worked part-time three days a week. They could not make it on her income alone. They only had enough financial cushion to pay their bills for about three months. He knew he had to make something happen, and do it quickly. One day after paying his bills he actually had to make a decision whether to fill up his gas tank or buy groceries. This was the turning point in his life. It was either cave in to the desperation and depression or rise to the occasion and go into business for himself. He felt no one was going to hire an over-40 professional like him at the salary he had been accustomed to. One day while reading newspaper, he read a story about how a large percentage of attorneys were not getting the clientele they desired. He spotted a need. Problem leads to profit.  He was skilled in writing marketing materials for a large company for the past twenty years. Why couldn’t he do it for another industry?, he asked himself.

This lead him to make his first phone call to a local attorney who confessed that his business was slow and he was at odds in how to get more clientele and increasing his referrals. John made an appointment with that attorney. He became John’s first client. That was 250 clients and three years ago. John’s now has three employees that all work as independent contractors from their homes. He also works out of his home. He and his staff meet in person once a week for brainstorming sessions to give the virtual company a more human feel.”

Now when you read the story of John, in a very short period of time, you are pulled in to his plight, feel his despair, and experience the hope he has with the advent of his new business. When this story is told, as opposed to just telling facts, you feel for John. When it is presented with pauses, increases and decreases in speech volume, and the appropriate body gestures, you are well on your way to creating a memorable speech. As in a good TV screenplay, you can clearly identify the problem, solution, and the outcome.  The story of John is one you remember and isn’t that the reason why we do presentations at our work, places of worship, and service organizations?

Cheers Brothers!

All services include a style and scalp consult, a quick follicle- stimulating scalp massage, detailing of eyebrow, nose & ear hair trim, and a nice light astringent aftershave

December to Remember

Clean, Sharp, and Handsome

December 2011 Newsletter

...for men only

Get a haircut, will ya!

Call my cell for an appt: 267-261-3240

George Bruno
Men's Grooming Expert

Your Hair: Have your lovely wife or girlfriend massage your scalp while you’re watching TV. She sits on the sofa, you sit on the floor. It’ll stimulate the follicles, increase blood flow to the scalp, and help your hair grow thicker and healthier. Do the same for her. It’s only fair, lol!

Winter is TOUGH on scalps and hair. Condition your hair with a quality conditioner like Nexus. Anything with tea tree oil is great for the scalp too.

Your Skin: Moisturize that darn face of yours. You have skin flaking off, you look “ashen” and older. Your woman probably does this routine. She cleanses and exfoliates, uses a toner to tighten, she moisturizes, then seals. Just ask her, or me. I’ll show you a regimen at the shop that’ll make you look younger, healthier, and help you get a raise at work. Your woman secretly agrees with me.

What is a good haircut? Is it something cheap? Is it something fast? Is it fast and cheap, lol? Come see me for an experience. I hate to say pamper, because that sounds like girl talk. How about royal masculine treatment? If you want the “hooters of the haircut world” then go to a salon. That’s exactly what you’ll get. Come to a man’s shop where manly men specialize in styling men’s hair or if you’re under 40, it’s dudes that cut dudes hair.

Man to Man

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

The Wife/Girlfriend Department

While she’s watching TV, get up and make some popcorn for her. Do it in a pot with OLIVE OIL. Then sprinkle a little sea salt on it and toss. The olive oil will give it a little buttery taste and it’s good for her. Give her bowl for her lap! It won’t be long until she says “can you make me some popcorn?” on a regular basis.

Even though you have a remote that unlocks the car doors; open her door for her …even in the driveway, shopping, events, etc. Then wait till she gets in and only then close it and walk to your side of the car.

Get into the habit of dropping her off at the door wherever you are going together and then you go and find the parking place. At the end of the event, you say “I’ll go get the car” and pick her up …along with opening and closing her door.

Now that it is getting colder, keep a small “lap blanket” in the car. Keep it in the back seat. Reach back and put it on her lap. It’s amazing how a little thing like that can warm her up before the car gets warm inside.

Speak Well, Earn More?

Here are ten compelling reasons why you need to speak better.

1. You convey your message in more passionate enthusiastic manner. Passion equals convincing. You don't need to survey an audience to find that they will always give better reviews to the more compelling, passionate speaker. You should have the motto, "Thou shall not bore". Passionate and enthusiastic speakers always get invited back...so speaking well is good for repeat business and is a passive income generator.

2. It assures that you won't be misunderstood. Take full responsibility for your message. The reality is that if you are misunderstood, it is YOUR fault, not theirs. Even in one-to-one communications, someone should never say to you, "Sorry, I didn't get your name." The burden is on you to have everyone know your name, who you are, what you do, how you do it, and why they need you.

3. You will be chosen for more work, better work, and more often. You will be the company "smart-bomb". If a presentation has to be made, you get chosen. If a valuable sales call has to be scheduled, guess who they are going to choose? The rewards just seem to flock to the person who speaks better.

4. It makes you appear "smarter" People judge your capabilities by your speaking. Apart from the speaker's appearance (we will get to that in another article), the way you speak will have a direct effect on the impression you make to others. It may be a simple as talking to someone on a train on the way to work, the classic elevator conversation, and of course in business presentations. Intelligence and IQ are not good determiners of success. Some of the greatest leaders are known for their speaking style first and content second. I suggest getting both of those mastered. You have heard it said that "It's not what you say; it's how you say it." It is very valuable in life, business, relationships, marriage, and parenting

5. It leads to a more effective social and personal life. Networking events become easier. Impromptu speeches become effortless. You have been to events where someone off the cuff says to you, "Why don't you stand or come up here and give us a few words about......." These scenarios always lead to better work, more work, and more opportunity.

6. People will model after your speaking skills: boss, employees, clients, children, etc. when you speak well, you unconsciously raise the bar of conversation, speaking style, content, and everyone around you benefits. Slang and nonsense talk flee in the presence of a conscious speaker.

7. It makes you a more interesting and compelling person. People love to be around a good speaker. They love to hear what you have to say. They learn from your style, cadence, humor, and content.

8. It makes you an overall better communicator, written and verbal. I have found that the best writers are those that write in a conversational style. When you perfect your speaking and conversational style, you will find that your writing will be nearly effortless. Personally, since I have become conscious of this, I have been getting compliments on my writing for several years. This benefits in your copywriting as well. You will write better sales letters, ad copy, and marketing pieces. Your blogging will become compelling and much more attractive. Your readership will "magically" increase.

9. The better communicator always gets picked over the weaker communicator in all areas of life. It is your responsibility to be the best speaker in your circles, whether it is in business, sports, church, politics, or sitting around the table with friends.

10. And the bottom line...People who speak better, earn more! The research is conclusive. Your income will increase with your improved speaking skills.

What will you do today to improve your skills? Want more of this kind of stuff? It just might be the best five bucks you’ll ever spend: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FG1KRQ
All services include a style and scalp consult, a quick follicle- stimulating scalp massage, detailing of eyebrow, nose & ear hair trim, and a nice light astringent aftershave

Cheers Brothers!
George