From a makeshift salon in his parent’s garage at the age of 14, Anthony Staltari has catapulted to the forefront of the Australian Barbering scene. Staltari still cuts out of Barber Boys Barbershop in Adelaide and specialises in traditional barbering with a modern twist. Anthony has been a part of the Barber Boys family since the beginning of his career and his skills and dedication to the craft continues to grow year after year. So it is no surprise that he has achieved so many accolades in his career thus far including; Finalist for Australian Men’s Hairdresser of The Year 2020, Finalist AHIA Hot Shots Rising Male, AHIA Best Barber of the Year, Hair Expo Men’s Hairdresser and the list goes on.
Here’s what Anthony had to say about his exciting journey…
How did your passion for Barbering start?
My barbering career first started at the age of 14 when I picked up a pair of scissors and started chopping my friends hair after school. After a year of that I started to realise I had a slight talent and passion for the industry.
Where did you start your Apprenticeship?
I was lucky enough that by the age of 16, through posting my work on my social platform, that I was approached by a multiple salon owner, Don De Sanctis, founder of Barber Boys, to be offered an Apprenticeship.
Did you ever think you would be where you are today?
I did not imagine that hair could take me around the world, but the more hard work I was putting in the more results I was getting, so I just keep pushing to see what I can really achieve within the industry.
Congratulations on being chosen as an AHFA20 Finalist: Men’s Hairdresser of the Year, can you tell us about your experience and what was the driving force and inspiration behind your collection?
For me this was one of the biggest things I’ve done in my career. I hopped on a plane and went all the way to London where I got to experience working with some really good men’s hairstylist. At the end of the trip I planned a photoshoot. With this collection I wanted it to be clear that it was not shot in Australia, but I also wanted it to come from the heart! So I handpicked every model to achieve every hair style I wanted.
Is there any advice you would share with other Barber’s wanting to enter hair competitions?
For me coming from such a competitive background I always recommend entering competitions just to see where you are at with your career, especially if you have dreams of travelling the world!
What can you tell someone who wants to follow in your footsteps; what are the key elements in building your own style?
I think the most important thing to do is to push yourself. If you feel like your work is getting boring try new things and also keep learning by going to classes or watching educational videos and eventually you will be able to work out what you can do to be your own brand.
Who would you say has influenced you most during your career?
I have to say a big influence would be my boss Don De Sanctis because he is so passionate about the industry and always pushes me outside of my comfort zone. Also my mother has had a massive influence as she has always believed in me since I was a first year Apprentice at the age of 16.
What would you say is the most important lesson you’ve learnt in the course of your career?
The biggest lesson for me was realising that the industry is growing more and more every year and that I have to grow with it. The minute I stop trying new things and pushing boundaries is the minute everyone else will overtake me.
What is your favourite thing about working in this industry?
My favourite thing is probably Hair Expo weekend. To me it’s my favourite weekend of the year and there’s no better feeling than cutting on stage and being able to catch up with all my hairdressing mates.
You are already kicking industry goals; do you have any exciting plans for the future?
My biggest goal for this year was trying to win Men’s Hairdresser of the Year. However, if that doesn’t happen there’s always next year. I would also love to be able to spend more time cutting hair in Europe and learning some skills off the amazing stylist there. And maybe one day get the opportunity to do some men’s session styling for some big brands.
We are honoured to share Anthony’s story and look forward to watching this rising star continue to take the industry by storm, watch this space…
Insta: @anthonystaltari