Scott Finley and Darren Peterson own Finley’s Barber Shop in the Austin area, an old-school barber shop, providing top-notch grooming services in a hangout setting with a laser focus on customer care. The formula is working: Finley’s has won reader’s choice award for Best Barber Shop in Austin magazine 2 years in a row.
Finley and Peterson met while waiting tables in a Austin restaurant. Scott was going to barber college and Darren was a student studying computer science and business. The duo struck up an immediate friendship that has endured for well over a decade, even though their paths diverged. Scott and his wife opened Salon U in Lakeway, Texas. Darren managed offshore developers for Dell Computers. However, they still dreamed about building a business together. Scott approached Darren with the idea of reinventing the old-fashioned American barbershop, combining the best traditions of barbering with fine products such as Imperial Barber Products and serious service. Scott knew hair and Darren knew business — and both of them know customer service. This was the opportunity the two men were looking for combining their passion for personal grooming and strong business acumen with a focus on customer service. Darren, Scott and wives Lisa and Erica along with business partner Denis opened and built Finley’s with an emphasis on services and products that men truly want. “Guys have come to appreciate the personal service: hot towels, scalp massage, aromatherapy and camaraderie. It’s a true escape,” says Darren. What started as a casual neighborhood destination in a small lakeside suburb of Austin has turned into seven locations around Austin and Dallas, with more to come. Darren and Scott’s continued involvement in day-to-day operations of each Finley’s ensure that their personal touch and creative approach is carried in each location. Finley’s is built around a concept where the special relationship between a father and son can be fostered, where you can get a shave and a haircut while relaxing with a beverage while watching the game. Every Sunday, Finley’s hosts “Father and Sonday” offering a discount for family members who come in for services together.Finley’s Barber Shop popular services include the Clean Head & Face Shave, Beard Conditioning Shave, Scalp Renewal Treatment and “Gentleman’s Facial” in addition to the classic “Clean Shave” straight razor shave featuring essential oils and a head and neck massage.