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86 Exchange Street, Bangor, ME 04401Monday: Closed · Tuesday – Friday: 9am – 6pm · Saturday: 8am – 4pm · Sunday: ClosedTuesday – Friday: 9am – 6pm(207) 555-0112

New clients

Your first shave, from the towel to the balm

A first shave is for anyone who has never had a straight razor at their face, and for anyone who wants an hour that is slow on purpose. Your barber checks your skin first, explains each step and stops whenever you ask.

Most men come back every four weeks. That is the rhythm the shave club holds for you.

  • 60 minutes in the chair

  • Every step explained first

  • Back every four weeks, if you like

A barber in a green flannel shirt works lather onto a reclined client's chin, a striped cape over his chest

In the chair

What happens, with the minutes

  1. 01

    Step 1: Talk and towel

    Your barber looks at your skin and your growth and asks what you want. A hot towel goes over the face to soften the beard.

    • 10 min

  2. 02

    Step 2: Lather and first pass

    Lather is brushed on, and the first pass goes with the grain.

    • 20 min

  3. 03

    Step 3: Second pass

    A second, lighter pass across the grain for a close finish.

    • 15 min

  4. 04

    Step 4: Cool towel and balm

    A cool towel, then balm, and a few words on looking after your skin until next time.

    • 15 min

Your barber

The barber who does it

Bernie takes first shaves on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

  • Bernie Talbot, owner-barber, standing in the shop in a dark green waistcoat and white shirt, hands in his pockets

    Bernie Talbot

    Owner-barber

    • Barber license · ME Lic. 000000

    Bernie opened Whisk to give the straight-razor shave a room of its own. He takes the first shaves and the long visits. Works Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

About a first shave

Will a straight-razor shave suit my skin?

Tell your barber about sensitive skin or a recent nick when you book, and again in the chair. They change the pressure and the passes, or suggest another service. A new blade is used for every shave.

What should I bring to a first shave?

Just yourself. If you have a beard line or a shape you like, a photo helps. A few days of growth gives your barber more to work with.

What if I want to stop?

Say so and your barber stops. You pay only for the visit you booked and nothing is added without your yes.

Book your first shave

Choose First shave on the booking page. A deposit holds the time and goes toward your visit.