Haircuts can be stressful because I’ve had my share of bad ones. For a long time, I bounced between several franchise spots, with wildly inconsistent results. Just when I’d find someone good, they’d vanish, and the search would start all over again.

A couple of years ago, my son recommended a private shop owned by a stylist. I had nothing to lose, and it turned out to be a smart decision. The haircuts are always fantastic. But there's one thing this place does that keeps me coming back, something none of those chains ever thought to do.

At the end, she applies hot shaving cream to my neck, followed by a straight razor shave. Then she wraps a warm towel around my head for a scalp and shoulder massage. Ahhh, any tension melts away. I tell people about it all the time. Plus, it’s included with each cut.

Sometimes what sets you apart doesn’t have to be a grand gesture; it can be the little, thoughtful extras that no one else offers. Shaving cream, a razor, hot towel.

Small things matter.