Eight(8) questions with shop barber chanin cotter…
Name / age / hometown:
Chanin Cotter / 50’s / Onarga, IL
What got you into barbering:
Funny story: it was getting my haircut at Joe’s starting around 2011. Joe Jr. and I had a connection over all things with wheels; and our mutual dislike of the corporate work life. Those conversations turned into “why don’t you become a barber?” And so, I did!!
How often should a man realistically get a haircut:
I feel for most haircut styles, 4-5 weeks keeps the look consistent and orderly.
What’s your favorite haircut to do and why:
I enjoy giving haircuts that have some flow to the top and gradually work to tapering out at the neckline. It’s classic. And it satisfies about any lifestyle or career.
Beard or clean shaven — which looks better:
I think this really depends on the person. I also think that every man needs to grow a beard and maintaining it for a year. A beard can act as a great stying accessory.
What’s the craziest haircut request you’ve ever gotten:
As a Halloween gag…a guy had me trim away the bulk of the hair on the back of his head. Leaving effectively eyebrows, a mustache, sideburns, and soul patch beard. His wife was going to paint on eyes, a nose, and a mouth. Leaving a “two-face” look.
What’s your advice for a guy trying to look more put together:
Cleaning up the edges, so to speak. Even “messy” hair or a full beard. But making the look “intentional” speaks volumes. Giving a defined shape, using hair or a beard to frame your face and highlight your best features is what I enjoy doing for someone.
Why do you think people still value an old-school neighborhood barbershop in 2026:
I think the value of the local old school shop is the same feeling that I got the first time I walked into Joe’s 15 years ago. The feeling of “I’m in the right spot.” Knowing that the barbers are skilled in what they do. That they enjoy the artistry of sculpting hair and reinvigorating each person as step out. I enjoy being a part of the neighborhood fabric. I love when people stop in for a cut or just to chat, sharing stories of the impact Joe’s has had on their life in Logan Square.