City, Chamber Leaders Welcome Marv's Barber Shop To Bristol

By Brian Johnson, The Bristol Press

August 5, 2021

City and Chamber leaders welcomed Marv’s Barber Shop to Bristol Wednesday, with owner Marvin Rodriguez bringing with him 25 years of experience and talent.

Marv’s Barber Shop, located at 2 E. Main St. in the Forestville, immediately catches the eye. Inside is decorated Rodriguez’ artwork of famous Marvins real and fictional, from Marvin the Martian to singer Marvin Gaye. Once inside, customers will find themselves in a fun atmosphere with an arcade machine, soda and snack machines which Rodriguez says are intended to make each visit an “experience”.

“My first language is energy,” said Rodriguez. “I feel joy in my business and interacting with people and customers. I was born for this.”

Rodriguez says he can offer customers a nice, clean environment and a “one stop shop” for any kind of haircut they are looking for as well as teeth whitening, manicures, micropigmentation and more. On the walls, people will see several photographs and trophies from “Barber Battle” competitions which Rodriguez participated in around the country.

“I’m going for a vision and if you chase that vision and put your heart and passion into it then something good has to happen,” he said. “I’m not going to stop; I’m going to go harder and harder.”

Rodriguez had formerly owned a barber shop in Waterbury and said he chose to come to Bristol because “the people treat me good.”

City Council member Scott Rosado provided guidance to Rodriguez as he was looking for a new place to open his business. His current location is renovated from a former karate studio.

“To be able to open a business at this time in the pandemic is very inspirational,” said Rosado. “Marv put a lot of heart and soul into this business.”

Mayor Ellen Zoppo-Sassu welcomed Rodriguez on behalf of the city.

“This emerging business will add a lot of customer traffic and ambiance to what we are developing here in the village of Forestville,” she said. “I think that when people see the investment you’ve made here, it will go well for you.”

Cindy Bombard, president and CEO of the Central CT Chambers of Commerce, said that the transformation of the space into Marv’s Barbershop was “absolutely amazing” to see.

“The artwork and setup is great,” she said. “It’s a wonderful atmosphere.”

Justin Malley, the city’s economic development director, remarked that “Marv is a ball of positive energy.” He said that his dedication to his business was “incredibly inspiring.”

Brian M. Johnson can be reached at 860-973-1806 or bjohnson@bristolpress.com.