Meet the Barber: An Interview With Antoine McLaughlin
Founding Barber, Savant Barber Lounge — 100 Bank Street, Ottawa
Finding Home Behind the Chair
When you sit with Antoine, it doesn’t take long to feel the weight of his story. He didn’t enter barbering through convenience or luck — he arrived through struggle.
“I grew up in a group home,” he tells us, “and most of my early life was chaos. I was rowdy, stubborn, didn’t take direction well… I had to learn everything the hard way.”
Barbering became the first space in his life that felt grounded. A place where he could build real connections, talk to people from every walk of life, and finally feel at home.
“Behind the chair, I found confidence and purpose. It gave me the ability to provide for my son in a way that I’m proud of. That’s why I show up every day.”
A Human Approach to Client Care
When asked what he values most in how he treats people, Antoine doesn’t hesitate.
“I’m not afraid to be vulnerable. I’ve been through real things. I don’t try to play Superman. I think when clients see I’m open and honest, it helps them relax and open up too.”
That openness sets the tone for every interaction. Instead of a transaction, it becomes a conversation — one that’s grounded in honesty, relatability, and mutual respect.
Motivation Beyond the Shop
Outside of Savant, Antoine’s world is centered around one name: Jaden.
“My son slows my mind down. He brings me peace. Everything I do — the shop, the growth, the long days — it’s all for him.”
But fatherhood isn’t the only driving force. Mentorship plays a huge role in his life.
“I love mentoring the young men in this shop. I see where they’re headed, I recognize their struggles, and I want to help them grow into stronger individuals. Watching them develop… that motivates me more than people realize.”
Creating the Atmosphere at Savant
Antoine is intentional about the energy he brings into the space.
“I want people to feel comfortable and relaxed the second they sit down. Life’s heavy enough — when you’re here, I want you to feel like you’re getting more than a haircut. I want you to feel like you’re getting your time back.”
It’s this balance of upbeat energy and grounded presence that shapes the Savant experience.
What You’d Never Guess at First Glance
People often assume Antoine has always been the composed, disciplined person they see today. The truth is different.
“I used to be a troublemaker,” he laughs. “I didn’t take direction well at all. As I grew up, I realized how much wisdom the people around me were trying to give. I finally started listening.”
Then comes the surprise.
“And I love Christmas movies. All year round. Don’t ask me why — they just make me happy.”
A Barber With Depth, Not a Persona
Antoine’s story is one of growth, responsibility, and choosing to evolve.
It’s what makes him more than a barber — it makes him a presence.
At Savant, he brings a mix of lived experience, calm leadership, and genuine connection that sets the tone for the entire shop.
If you’re looking for a barber who treats the craft as a way to connect, uplift, and create space for real conversations, Antoine is someone worth meeting.