Al McDonald, PUREMAN
Just believe ...
Al McDonald thinks like a man … a man with impeccable grooming and a penchant for downtown New York-esque spaces. This steady-handed gent created Pureman salon in 2006 with no client list and an unusual concept of traditional barbershop meets contemporary grooming. With not a single candy-striped pole in sight, it’s the mural of history’s iconic men of cool on the back wall that exhibits what Pureman is all about – quality, head-turning and attentive grooming. With local lads’ sprucing awareness growing each year, a constant stream of CEOs and hipsters alike leave Pureman looking sharp and refreshed. With straight edge razor shaves, slick, stylised snips and an extensive range of man-only products, this slice of Big Apple-style grooming is the ultimate men’s pad. The Weekend Edition took five with Al to discover the wonders of his weekend.
How do you like to start your weekend?
I like to start it with a big breakfast and a large coffee after my son’s swimming class.
What’s your favourite thing to do on a Saturday morning?
It’s one of the few mornings where I get to kick start my old Vespa and generally take a detour-tour into the CBD.
How do you like to unwind?
Just spending time with friends, sharing good food and wine.
What are your essentials for a well-spent weekend?
I’m still a big follower of British football, so on Saturday nights I can catch up on games I’ve missed during the week.
What’s something you’ve been meaning to do on the weekend but haven’t got around to yet?
Clean my car and get a quiet lie in.
What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday evening?
I am a strong advocate of traditional shaving and I have a routine every Sunday evening where I shave in a traditional manner with a badger brush and straight edge razor – the house is quiet and it’s a blissful few moments to myself.
What are you looking forward to next weekend?
Finalising the relaunch of our website.
What are you reading at the moment?
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Who inspires you?
My wife, kids and my clients, in that order.
What was your childhood dream?
To live where the sun shone everyday!
What has been your greatest achievement?
Living where the sun shines most days!
What is success to you?
To be blessed with a genuine passion for what I do.
What are your words of wisdom?
Just believe.
Only a local would know that … Citron in Wilston is amazing restaurant, serving up modern asian food.
FAVOURITE WEEKEND SPOT TO:
Perk up … Jeremy’s on Albert Street serves a great espresso.
Relax … a walk down Kedron Brook.
Dine … Citron, Wilston.
Indulge … Mr Porter.
Shop … Mr Porter.
Catch-up … with friends.
Be inspired … listening to my children’s laughter.
