
HOMOPHOBIC EXPERIENCE AT PRESTIGE. A FAR CRY FROM PRESTIGIOUS
I recently had an incredibly disappointing encounter at Prestige Barbershop on Stuyvesant Avenue in Lyndhurst, NJ. When I arrived, almost every barber had an empty chair, which is unusual for this typically bustling establishment. There was an immediate and noticeable tension, likely triggered by my openly and confidently gay presence.
Just to set the tone in a realistic fashion, I’m a CIS gender male and not overly flamboyant, not that it should matter at all how myself or anyone else carried themselves, as long as i was respectful to everyone, someones lack of or overly apparent flamboyance should never be a factor when expecting a service that they are paying for. Sadly, I was treated as though I didn’t belong there and absolutely felt unwelcome.
Each barber acted as if they didn’t want to cut my hair, following a childish "follow-the-leader" mentality. The owner must have sensed the issue—perhaps familiar with the undertones—and noticed my growing annoyance and zero-tolerance attitude. He proceeded to call a barber from the back of the shop, who came out with a cellphone to his ear, an immediate sign of unprofessionalism. This barber had me sit in his chair, then cowardly rolled his eyes at his coworkers, including the owner, which I witnessed firsthand. After that, he returned to the back of the shop as if I didn’t exist.
I was then shuffled to 3 different chairs, each employee conjuring up an excuse as to why they couldn’t cut my hair, at this point, my discomfort was palpable. The worst part of the experience was the underlying and outright homophobia I felt. Despite there being a gay employee working there who is in my opinion overtly flamboyant (there is likely more gay men working there who aren't out), I felt completely unwelcome, as though my presence wasn’t valued at all.
It's sad and disheartening that in this day and age, a place like this would allow such hateful behavior to occur. I made it clear to the owner as I left that the homophobic behavior was unacceptable. Sadly, I haven’t experienced this level of exclusion since I was an adolescent in grammar school. My friends, family, and colleagues won’t be returning—of that, I’m certain.
As someone who values excellent customer service and loyalty, I’m always the first to give a glowing review when it’s deserved. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend Prestige Barbershop to anyone looking for a respectful and inclusive...
Read moreI had another great experience at Prestige Barbershop in Lyndhurst this afternoon. As soon as I walked in, I was warmly greeted by the owner, Fernando, and other barbers. I’ve been going there for several years, and by now most of the barbers know me by name.
This place is very welcoming to repeat customers as well as new customers. I have personally witnessed the barbers immediately greet all customers as they walked through the front door. Fernando runs a very professional and welcoming business. He always thanks the customers for coming to the business as they enter and when they leave.
I look and feel ten years younger after the fade haircut, beard trim and shave Fernando gave me this afternoon. For reasonable prices, a welcoming and professional environment, and a great haircut call or go see Fernando and his barbers at Prestige Barbershop...
Read moreI have had the pleasure of visiting Prestige Barbershop in Lyndhurst, NJ for the last 3 years, and I must say it was an exceptional experience from start to finish. This establishment truly lives up to its name and has established itself as the go-to destination for top-notch barbershops in the area.
From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that instantly made me feel like part of the family. The friendly staff and the camaraderie among the barbers created an atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere.
The barbers at Prestige are undeniably talented. Each one possesses a remarkable skill set, making it clear that they are experts in their craft. Their attention to detail and dedication to delivering the perfect cut, trim, or style is...
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