About Me

While a barber’s occupation focuses primarily on the image of the client, Michael Leakes is determined to ensure that his clients’ character matches their aesthetic. Mike is not a traditional barber as he finds himself engaging in civic endeavors, mentoring the youth, or volunteering his services at local homeless shelters. Mike Leakes’ core competence is deeply invested service. Continually learning and expanding his skills to increase his product offering, Mike has developed an atmosphere where clients come for the experience. He treats each individual who sits in his chair as if they were a canvas to be presented to the world while also inspiring them to manifest the best version of themselves. While Mike does cut hair, he is not solely a barber as he has grown into an image consultant. Mike has developed a keen eye for fashion and often suggests modifications clients can make to their attire based on their lifestyle. These characteristics piqued the interest of several politicians, Memphis Grizzlies players, and other celebrities.  Mike’s level of attentiveness to detail is evident in his appearance, his work, and his relationships with customers. By investing in customers, community, and children, Mike continues to further cultivate an environment founded on the principle of growth.

Beyond the shop, Mike is a husband and father. His wife, Amanda, and daughter, Addison are the driving force behind Mike’s life. He is motivated largely by his desire to provide them the quality of life he feels they deserve. Mike is also driven by the need to show his younger siblings that investing in themselves and developing their craft can lead to a life of success beyond what is often presented to them. When he was preparing for graduation from high school, Mike was faced with a decision to pursue barbering or attend college. Mike chose to attend college. However, it soon became evident that being a barber was his true passion as he found himself cutting hair before, in between, and after classes. 

Having grown up in the heart of Orange Mound, Mike understood the importance of both family and community. A large portion of Mike’s family still resides in Orange Mound. As a result, Mike sees “The Mound” as a neighborhood that is very strongly rooted in community values. As an observant individual, Mike noticed the disconnect that existed between the generations in the community and has managed to bridge the gap through service. The environment Mike has created allows customers from all demographics to develop respect for one another through discussion of current events, stories of the past, or shared laughter.

In May 2018, Mike took the first step towards expanding his brand and opened Bleu Suede Barber Lounge. Additionally, Mike is current seeks to obtain his instructor’s license with the eventual objective being to open a non-profit barber school that focuses on more than crafting good haircuts. Within his barber school Mike desires to provide additional courses that make the school resemble a University. He plans to offer life skills courses such as economics, personal finance, business ethics and etiquette courses that can be useful towards building a business. Ultimately, Mike Leakes seeks to create an institution that produces strong barbers who deliver attentive haircuts and provide superior customer service.