Local barber supplying fresh cuts for hair of all ages
By David Yarger
Tribune Editor
Finding a good and reliable barber could sometimes be difficult for the average person. Some people may be searching for a certain style of cut or shave, some may search for a unique environment and some may search for who fits their schedule best. Get to know Andy Ranaletti: a barber since 2011, who has had experience with almost every hairstyle you can think of.
Ranaletti opened up his first shop - Andy's Barbershop, 8888 Porter Road - on Feb. 21, 2017. In over a year, he has seen a plethora of new and old customers and said business has been booming, even though he had some worries at the start.
"I can't even keep up," Ranaletti said. "It all happened so fast where I wasn't expecting to be this busy this fast. ... I was nervous for the first 20 days to get all my people over and after the 20 days, it was like a bomb went off."
As a veteran around the region cutting hair, Ranaletti has taken his experiences at other shops around the area and brought them into his own shop. Ranaletti said he began cutting hair for his neighbors, then as a bartender at the Seneca Niagara Casino, he began cutting the hair of those who requested for $5. From that small and favorable start, Ranaletti knew a career as a barber was just right for him.
"I figured it was a nice atmosphere where you're not outside; you have air conditioning and heat and it's easy, good money. And I like making people look fresh," he said.
Ranaletti also has a deep passion for his customers hair, as on his website he writes, "He's built (a) reputation for staying committed to his clients, their needs, and respects their wishes while encouraging them to make their best choice when it comes to all the hair on their head.
"Your haircut isn't just about getting rid of lengthy overgrowth, it's about presenting who you are, the way you want the world to see you. It's about gaining confidence, feeling liberated, and giving you the right attitude to feel empowered. It's more than a haircut or a beard trim. It's about how it makes you feel, and that matters."
Before Andy's Barbershop came to fruition, Ranaletti started at Beau Cheveux Salon in Niagara Falls and then did three years with Ross' Hairstyling. After his time at Ross', Ranaletti decided it was time to embark on his own journey and capture his vision.
At most local shops, those needing a hair cut might have to wait long periods of time. Unique to Ranaletti's shop, customers can schedule appointments that fit their schedule best.
"The appointments are the savior of everything," he said. "Nobody wants to wait in a barbershop for hours. ... You can just book on andythebarber.net and you can schedule a time that suits you, come on in and you will not wait any longer than five minutes."
Ranaletti welcomes boys and men of all ages, as well as females who have interest in receiving a fade-style hair cut.
Upon walking into Andy's Barbershop, one can see Ranaletti's fandom of sports. The shop has looks of a man cave, with two flat-screen televisions, three leather couches, a fridge with stocked beverages and Ranaletti's favorite sports memorabilia, including signed photos from Buffalo Sabres, Buffalo Bills and much, much more.
Those looking to stop into the shop and unable to book an appointment have no need to worry. Ranaletti is supplemented by fellow barbers Thomas Dullen and Mitch Ross, who also accept walk-ins, as well as appointments.
Ranaletti added, at his shop you can expect "A good haircut when you leave."
Ranaletti charges $13 for a fresh cut and accepts either credit card or cash. Andy's Barbershop is open Tuesday-Saturday (9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday).
To contact or book an appointment, visit www.andythebarber.net or call 716-371-2813.
Andy Ranaletti cuts Charles Gordner's hair early Tuesday morning.