What do you do, and what makes it unique?
We’re the inventors of the gentle art of Hairclubbing – i.e. getting one’s hair done over drinks with guests. We provide Hudsoners with luxury private haircuts over handcrafted soda made with authentic plant extract flavors from 19th century. Or are we the only soda maker in the world providing luxury haircuts? The lines get blurred, lol!
What brought you to Hudson, and how long have you been here?
We transplanted from Soho, London, UK right after the pandemic. At first, we were planning to open a branch of our Hairclubbing concept in Williamsburg, Brooklyn – but as hard as we tried, it just did not feel right. Then, someone mentioned the trendy, wonderful and hip Hudson and – once we visited – we just knew that would be our next chapter. Of course, we had absolutely no idea we’d be getting ourselves into flavor archaeology and launching a Hairclubbing soda startup based around a locally handcrafted healthful Coke alternative.
What’s it like being a part of Hudson’s business community?
The innately eclectic nature of Hudson businesses is such a welcome change. It just feels like nothing is impossible, no matter how silly the combo (present company included). The support and encouragement we get from fellow founders and owners is essential to keeping on the path, regardless the challenges!
What makes Hudson unique from other places you’ve lived or worked?
Very different from Soho, London – it feels much more intimate and relaxed while somehow still quite metropolitan and cosmopolitan. Hudson really does seem like a perfect balance of quintessential American small town with a hefty dose of that unmistakable NYC signature.
What is one thing visitors to Hudson shouldn’t miss while they’re here?
This is going to sound weird – but we love taking long walks in the back alleys discovering hidden corners of the city. In the late summer evenings during the golden hour everything just seems to transform into a continuous movie-like image, unearthing endless hints of the colorful Hudson history. Especially after reading Diamond Street by Bruce Edward Hall!
What’s your idea of a perfect weekend in and around Hudson?
Staying at Amelia. Definitely driving, a fun car – if possible. Coffee at Moto, the triple ristretto is excellent. A nice walkabout, possibly checking the clothes at Boutique Manifest and sneaking in a naughty strudel treat at Strudel House. Driving out to Athens and catching some yummy focaccia at Catskill Bread Co. followed by another espresso at The Athens Rooster, sitting outside and watching the river rolling just down the street. Apple picking in Germantown, followed by a drive to Rhinecliff and river watching from the train station overpass. Check out the craft beer selection at the Epicurean (good chance you will find some Heady Topper). Drive back toward Hudson and stop over at Greig Farm to investigate the local produce and treats. Head out to Old Klaverack Farm Brewery and enjoy best craft beer in town with some wood fired pizza as the sunset rolls in. That kind of thing.
What is your favorite memory of being in Hudson (so far)?
Difficult to choose – but probably driving down Warren St in our newly acquired soda delivery vehicle that just happens to be a fully branded old beat up NYC cab – aka Buster the REPOPmobile. The surprised looks on people’s faces soon turned to smiles and we knew Buster would prove to be a hit in Hudson!
