Seven Q&A with Ray
I recently sat down with the owner of Salon 17 South, and AXIS Salon, Raymond Trader, to find out why hair styling is his occupation of choice, and Middleburg and Winchester are his shop's homes.
— Sue Smith, freelance writer & editor
My Uncle George. He was an exceptional Master Stylist for over 50 years. I enjoyed spending time in his shop; he put me to work, and I became his apprentice. Soon, I was cutting hair and learning the business. How many young men can honestly say "Women want to see me and they come back?" I was hooked. My Uncle was an encyclopedia of hairdressing know-how, and I paid attention.
2. Does it ever get routine?
There is a lot of satisfaction, creativity and it's a career where you use your skills every day in a multitude of ways. So no, it is continually new, you need to be very focused on each customer. I have a job that makes my clients happy, so it makes me happy. I spend all day meeting new people, greeting friends and making them feel amazing.
3. Good gossip?
Oh yes. Hairdressing is one of the most sociable jobs in the world. But that comes with a level of responsibility. Sorry, I can't say any more.
4. Would you call what you do glamorous?
We generate the glam. An expert hairdresser is also well-versed in the glamorous yet vital business of sanitation, sterilization, scalp disorders, hair analysis, company management, and customer care to name a few. Sometimes, I break out the tuxedo.
5. Do you also have male clientele?
Of course, cutting men's hair versus women's is usually a matter a length, but the same principals apply. Regardless of the gender, length, texture, and style will still determine the best cut and what product we recommend to maintain the look.
6. Why did you choose Middleburg?
After working a combined 30 years in Washington DC, and co-owning a shop in Alexandria; it was time to bring exceptional "urban" talent to this historic village. I love what I do. You no longer need to schedule a haircut based on the beltway. It is known as a retreat from DC with Olympic equestrians, quiet celebrity, and a community that cares. It's beautiful with a brick and stone downtown set off by the surrounding green hills, without a national franchise in sight.
7. You have recently expanded to Winchester, how is that working, and how did come by by the name?
It has been great. I have always had clients in both Middleburg and the surrounding areas and in Winchester. My clients are thrilled with the easy drive. As far as the name, my father's business was AXIS, so he's here with me. Learn more at our sister website https://axis-salon.com/
