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From Self-Practice to Professional Success
When Mateo was 14 years old, his family couldn't afford haircuts. So he took matters into his own hands. With a clipper he bought from Walmart, he began practicing on himself and soon was cutting hair for neighbors and family in his beautiful hometown of Isabela, Puerto Rico. As he grew older, he pursued a nursing degree. But by the age of 19, his cousin—also his barber—saw potential in him and offered him the chance to work and learn more about the craft in Denton, TX. Mateo seized the opportunity and decided to balance his nursing studies with his passion for barbering.
A Passion for Paying it Forward
Mateo's dedication and talent didn't go unnoticed. In 2023, he joined KAP. Now he uses this visibility to help other barbers with the knowledge and innovative tools to make their growth, experiences and working methods easier. This aligns with his desire to make a real impact—one of Mateo's greatest joys is that he’s personally mentored a friend who started his journey in barbering, and witnessing his friend's growth into an exceptional barber.
A Leader in Every Aspect
Mateo believes that the hallmark of an exceptional barber is being well-rounded. From maintaining cleanliness and organization to delivering exceptional customer service, Mateo strives to lead in every aspect of his work. He treats every customer like family, ensuring they feel respected and valued throughout their entire experience at the barbershop.
Barbering as an Art Form
From a family rooted in music and fashion, Mateo sees barbering as more than just a profession—it's an art form. Drawing inspiration from fashion shows, he incorporates colors, fades, shapes, and scissor cuts into his work, influenced by his heritage and love of European style.
Inspired by Culture and Heritage
Driven by his love for the arts and cultural background, Mateo aims to establish his own barber school in the future. Working at PMC Barbershop in Denton, TX, his work reflects diverse influences, blending his artistic flair with meticulous attention to detail.