Why the GC can’t stop combing back to Krownd.
Why the GC can’t stop combing back to Krownd.
For as long as we can remember, us ladies have had all the glory of the pampering and #selfcare rituals – the mani dates, spa days and hair salon D&M’s with our hairdresser that knows far too much info about all our personal lives. And while our beloved men-folk have always been welcome to tag along – there’s been a distinct lack of inviting spaces tailored specifically for them.
Ever since the term metrosexual was being thrown about as liberally as hair crimpers in the 90’s, the male grooming industry has gone from strength to strength and is no longer the exception, but more like the rule. And we’ve been trying to keep the fashion savvy, man-scaping, skin-routine welding men in our lives out of our face masques and volumising shampoos ever since.
Well, never shear guys (and gals, bc hands off our skincare pls), because a genius new concept is here to shave the day, and we moustache why nobody thought of this idea sooner. Say hello to Krownd, the GC’s one stop shop (or clinic, if we’re really getting to know each other) for all things men’s aesthetics.
From the outside, you might be forgiven at first glance for assuming that this is like any other bougie barber churning out fresh cuts on repeat. And coincidentally, owners Tema Wiguna & Karson Bagot admit that at first, the business started with a focus on men’s haircuts and shaves. However, they quickly identified the opportunity to meet the growing demand of the burgeoning men’s grooming industry by creating a unique concept for the fellas that’s been more overdue than a mullet for a trim.
The founder, who had personally struggled with societal stigmas surrounding men’s grooming, soon set their sights of expanding to offer a whole host of tailored services, including everything from teeth whitening and hydrafacials through to #brotox – they’ve legit got #theworks when it comes to helping guys get their glow on. Ultimately, the owner duo is passionate about helping men feel confident in their appearance without shame #judgementfreezone.
While they might have set out to create a new spot to help men not only look but also feel their best, it’s clear that Krownd has also been designed to make it an indulgent experience that’s a cut above. When it came time to build the ultimate bro-beautification destination, of course, they planted it squarely in the middle of the GC’s HQ of all things uber-cool, Mermaid Beach.
Their swanky new digs have that specific type of moody modern masculine interior that oozes luxury and makes you want to kick back and unwind, knowing you can rest a-sheared you’re in good hands. Its clean lines are as sharp as the fades, all decked out in an ultra-modern black and white palette, and of course, the trademark gold accents are a royal touch #yeskings
When it comes time for the royal treatment, let’s faci-al it. Women the world over have long known the magical properties aka glow that can only be gained from a professional facial. And Krownd has pulled out all the big players for their 5 stage hydrafacial treatment – with acid peels, microdermabrasion suction, hyaluronic serum application, and LED mask therapy – you know, all the good stuff to deliver a brighter, smoother, and more youthful appearance. Which quite frankly is starting to make us a little jelly that this might be one #boysonly club we actually be a part of.
Or if it’s time to make those locks a little more lush, the crew are bound to have an option that suits, from SMP (scalp micro pigmentation) through to full-blown hair transplants, with bangin’ results all right here on the Coast (yup, no need for jetting halfway across the world on that #turkishhairlines trip after all). And before we beard you adieu, we can’t forget to mention the teeth whitening treatments if that million dollar smile is no longer as sparkly as it once was.
While it’s quite clear that there’s no such thing as a bad hair day at Krownd Men’s Aesthetics, their crowning achievement has been creating a welcoming self-care destination to get the men of the GC feelin’ a million bucks – no doubt they’ll be combing back time and time again.
Where: 1/2539 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: Tuesday-Friday 10am – 5pm, Saturdays 9am – 2pm
Words by Kellie Leader.
STORY SPONSORED BY KROWND.
Nik Mirkovic, is one of the innovative minds behind the wildly successful HiSmile brand. With his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for creating accessible, effective products, Nik has transformed HiSmile into a global phenomenon. We delve into Nik’s journey, the inspiration behind HiSmile, and why the Gold Coast is the perfect base for big business.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I was born and raised on the Gold Coast (I’m currently 28 years old).
What do you love the most about the Gold Coast?
I love the Gold Coast lifestyle, it’s unlike anywhere else in the world. Cities around the world are either so big that you’re stuck in traffic trying to get anywhere, or they’re so small that you’re unable to have huge ambitions and build an amazing and hard working team. On the Gold Coast, I feel like we’ve got the perfect balance of the ambitions and drive of a major city, and the peace and tranquility of a small getaway town.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I grew up on the Gold Coast and I always had a passion to compete and challenge myself. My lifelong dream was to play professional football and to take my career over to Europe and compete with the best full-time. After finishing school I went on to try and pursue my dream, moving over to the UK to trial with a few bigger clubs. Realising I wasn’t at the level to compete at the very top, I had to make the tough decision of moving back to Australia to find a new challenge rather than lowering my expectations and playing professionally at a lower level.
I absolutely love living on the Gold Coast, and it plays a massive part in who I am as a person. I couldn’t see myself moving away from this amazing city anytime in the future!
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind starting HiSmile?
HiSmile started off the back of a common pain point for teenagers at the time, they loved whitening their teeth but they hated the pain and sensitivity that came as a by-product. We wanted to create a product that delivered the results but without the pain and sensitivity of traditional whitening.
When you launched HiSmile absolutely took off. Your sales went from zero to $50 million in three years! How did you navigate that crazy time?
The growth and challenges over the years have been crazy, but we take things one step at a time. Alex (the other co-founder) and I have always been obsessed with understanding enough about every part of the business to be dangerous enough to make decisions across the board, rather than relying on outsourcing and not getting involved. This allows us to organise and control that chaos as opposed to that being out of our hands.
What has been the biggest opportunity and/or challenge so far?
The biggest challenge came a few years into the business when we decided to invest heavily into r & d and the backend operation of the business (finance, legal, supply chain, data, procurement, etc). These were large investments that wouldn’t result in instant growth and revenue, but it was an investment that we felt we had to make in order for us to take that next step forward as a company.
HiSmile has expanded its product range beyond teeth whitening. Can you talk about the decision to diversify and the process of developing new products?
Our goal is to become the biggest oral care company in the world and to take that category to another level, away from its traditional mundane past. In order to work towards that goal it means that we have to expand the way we look at oral care, and expand our product offering. We now offer cosmetic whitening, brightening, everyday toothpastes and toothbrushes, dental professional whitening, and dental specific products for targeted solutions. Our development process starts in our r & d facility on the Gold Coast where we bring our ideas to life.
What can we expect next from HiSmile?
We’ll continue to launch market leading and world first products. We’re looking to do things that haven’t been done before in oral care, so we aim to elevate the entire category through amazing products and partnerships.
What is the best piece of business advice that you have ever been given?
Never get comfortable and complacent, make changes before external factors force your hand to change.
What are your Gold Coast favourites…
Café/coffee spot: HiSmile cafe 😉 otherwise Tarte and Commune in Burleigh
Restaurant: Gemelli
Bar or place for a drink: Paloma Wine Bar
Beach: Rainbow Bay
How do you choose to spend your days off?
At the beach, with family and friends.
Okay, so we’re the first to admit that there are plenty of schmick looking gyms around. With bangin bods being virtually synonymous with high-end fitness centres, long gone are the days of hitting the soulless local sweat box in your hyper-colour tee. But there’s one Southport trailblazer who has gone above and beyond the stunning fit out, and levelled up with substance for days. We’re referring to Body Temple Boutique Fitness Centre, Southport’s sleek fitness operator where members aren’t just a number, but part of a welcoming and exclusive community of wellbeing warriors.
This bespoke fitness centre is the Chris Hemsworth of fitness centres and we almost mean this literally, but more on that later…. Recently celebrating its one-year anniversary, it’s an inviting space, carefully cultivated to maximise flow, motivation, and results. It’s their heartfelt belief that the secret sauce to create a truly optimal workout environment is designing a space radiating positivity, encouragement, and personal touch. Think oodles of natural light, beautiful greenery, and of course, a gym of this calibre would not offer anything less than a brand new, fully equipped gym floor. Also it’s the cleanest gym you ever did see, and this really speaks to our OCD.
Members are guided through their training with superior customer service and ‘support on tap’ if needed to help them achieve their fitness goals. From the get-go, you’ll receive tailored programming, a fitness assessment, goal setting session, and results-tracking so that you’re destined for summer bod greatness. The perfect combo of being coached by the creme de la creme and having a gym membership simultaneously, you can train when you want on your own terms.
Another huge drawcard is that the gym membership is capped, ensuring Body Temple is never crowded and maintains an air of exclusivity. It’s a bit like visiting your fave store on a VIP night, sans the glass of bubbles and charcuterie board coz this would clearly defeat the purpose #80/20rule. Group classes are also capped at 10, so there’ll be no awkies personal space invasions and yeah, we’ve all been there. Plus, Body Temple even allows members private access to an in-house top-of-the-range infrared sauna, has a private carpark, and even boasts an in-house beauty therapist for advanced beauty treatments and massages #HighAchiever.
So just who is the mastermind behind this place? His name is Victor Fain, a genuinely passionate advocate for health and wellbeing (mental and physical) hailing from France. Coaching in Europe and New Zealand for many years, he moved to Australia in 2013 working in both commercial gyms and his own PT studio, before launching Body Temple Boutique Fitness Centre. This provided the opportunity to change even more people’s lives, with amazing feedback from clients and tangible results #TheProofIsInTheBooty.
Oh and before we forget, let’s bring it back to that Chris Hemsworth reference shall we and bloody oath we shall! In addition to his health and wellbeing pursuits, Victor has been doing Chris Hemsworth picture double work on different projects and welcome, we officially have your attention. All we have to say is “Yoplait”, and anyone older than Gen Z remembers the ad well and knows exactly what we’re getting at here…. #FrenchForYum #StopBlushingVictor.
So if you want to experience a truly bespoke fitness journey in an inviting and thoughtfully designed gym, look no further. With premier facilities and a true sense of community, don your cutest fitness getup and book a tour of this hub of for all your health, fitness and beauty needs.
Where: 32 Bay Street, Southport
When: 6am – 7.30pm, Monday to Saturday. Closed Sunday.
Words by Bianca Trathen.
Images by Brittany Kreskas.
STORY SPONSORED BY BODY TEMPLE BOUTIQUE FITNESS CENTRE
As if the year hasn’t flown by already, it’s now almost Movember. And if you haven’t noticed, here on the Gold Coast, there are some truly enthusiastic mo’ growers out there. But we moust-ache you a question, where are you getting yours groomed? (#sorrynotsorry)
You deserve the very best. So, if you aren’t quite sure, here’s a list of Gold Coast barbers to choose from — so, prepare yourself for some hot towel action and a side of whiskey comin’ your way!
Zeppelin Barbers
One of the Coast’s most beloved barbers, Jase Alpen, opened Zeppelin to rave reviews due to his exceptional skills, renowned good vibes and a space in Mermaid Beach that promises a laugh and a cold beer. By appointment only, the boys are very busy these days!
Where: Shop 3/2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
GoodFellaz Barbershop
Bring back that old-school barbering feels with exposed brickwork and custom-made barber chairs and of course accompanied with the option of both modern and classic haircuts and hot towel shaves. Make the visit worth your time with the option to swig a beer, scotch, vodka or water. How good!
Where: Benowa Village, Shop T6, Cnr Ashmore Road and Ross Street, Benowa
Made Barber & Barista
Having only just celebrated their 1st birthday and being one of only a few who boast a female barber, Made has quickly become a firm local favourite. Barber Britt is a legend, and as the shop is half café, half barbershop, you can sip seriously good espresso and nibble baked goods while you get your mo trimmed. Now your talkin’ our language.
Where: 2B/417 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
Shipwreck Barbers
Say Ahoy to classic cuts and a mighty clean shave. Hot towels, cold beers (or smooth rum) and a super chilled vibe, you’ll be well looked after here. Make an appointment or walk-in for a good time and an even better do.
Where: Shop 8/1134 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Lost Boys Barber
They’re reigniting the traditional barbering industry qualities whilst adding a fresh modern-day touch in a positive, relaxed space and a cold craft beer to top things off. Since first opening their doors in 2017, you’ll now be able to visit them at one of their two locations.
Where: 14 / 107 Ferry Road, Southport or 2 / 1842 Lower Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh
Mobile Barber Shop Depot
Mobile Barber Shop Depot is not just your average Barber Shop, it’s also a wedding venue and event space, and if you’ve ever been there, you’ll understand why. It looks sweet, plus the boys are some of the best around. Get in there and find out for yourself!
Where: 49 Upton Street, Bundall
Haychdee Barber Shop
Head into Haychdee for quality banter, better service and a place to spend time with new mates. The boys are mental health advocates, which means they’re always up for a chat, and of course they do an excellent trim too.
Where: 3/108 Helensvale Road, Helensvale
Legend Cutz
This Mermaid Beach Barber & Shaving Lounge specialises in pretty much all the things you need, including hair art guys. They also offer a complimentary hair wash which sounds like one of the best things ever. Helllloooooooo reclining chair.
Where: 2468 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Barber Bros & Co
This old-school favourite once was strictly “walk-in only” but now offers online bookings gents! So once you secure an appointment, let them take you back in time and experience a unique slice of the old and the new all whilst sitting back in a traditional US barber chair dating back to 1907.
Where: 15/21 Via Roma, Isle of Capri and 1e/11 Charles Ave, Broadbeach
Black Market Barber
The Black Market Collective is not your average barber. This one-stop-shop is a tattoo parlour, street apparel retailer and traditional barbershop all in one. Behind the collective are a group of artists and a unique set of talents, providing a mix of excellence with a fresh taste of street culture.
Where: Shop 1A 76 Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina
Luigi & Sons Barbershop
Following his father’s footsteps, Lino D’Addario has carried on the family passion for offering men perfect grooming. With over 25 years of experience, a cut-throat razor shave combined with flawless scissoring techniques, you’re going to leave looking ready for a runway show.
Where: Crestwood Plaza, Ashmore; 58 Brooke Avenue, Southport and Southport Park Shopping Centre, Southport
The Barberoy
Step back in time upon entering The Barberry in Coolangatta. It’s the perfect barber for any man that craves individuality, values the craft of a true barber and longs for the best service in town. Oh and save the waiting around by booking ahead of time.
Where: 25 McLean Street, Coolangatta
Ace Of Fades Barbers
Offering all your grooming needs in one of the coolest spaces around, Ace of Fades is the place to be in Surfers Paradise. Offering various services, including facial waxing (yep you read that right fellas), why not treat yourself to a steam shave? Sounds pretty good right about now, doesn’t it? Head into Ace of Fades to try it for yourself.
Where: 35 Orchid Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Tommy Gun’s
It’s high-tech meets Chicago’s golden era at this Pacific Fair barber. With a self-managed queuing system, individual in-mirror tv displays, a male-orientated waiting area with iPads, games, and complimentary beverages: welcome to your man cave. Don’t forget your dude facial.
Where: Shop 2778A, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach
Boardriders Barbershop
Find yourself in Coolangatta and feel like freshening up? Then let no one else but the talented Tenneal from Boardriders Barbershop tame your mane and trim your ‘stache. And whilst you wait, you can check out some new surfboards and, post-appointment, treat yourself to a beer at Café 28!
Where: Shops 28, 72 Marine Parade (inside Boardriders between Boards and 4Pines Brewery), The Strand, Coolangatta
Words by Alex Mitcheson.
