Piercing Studio

         

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Interview with Mia Ortiz, owner of Metal Art Piercing Studio in Portland, Oregon.

1. Mia, how did you get started in the piercing business?

I have always been fascinated with body art and modification, so after I finished high school, I decided to become a piercer. I completed an apprenticeship with a seasoned piercer and eventually opened my own studio in Portland, Oregon.

2. How did you differentiate yourself from other piercing studios in the area?

I wanted to create a space that was modern and welcoming, where people could come and ask questions without feeling judged. We make sure to use only the highest quality materials and our after-care products are all-natural and vegan-friendly. We really care about our clients' well-being and want to make sure their experience is as comfortable as possible.

3. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when starting your business?

Obviously, financial was a concern. I didn't have a lot of money saved up, so I had to be creative with my resources. I also had to compete with more established piercing studios in the area. It was tough to build up a client base at first because people tend to stick with piercers they are familiar with.

4. Were there any risks that paid off unexpectedly?

Definitely! Starting an online store using Shopify was a big risk for me, and I wasn't sure how successful it would be. But it turned out to be a huge hit! We offer a wide selection of body jewelry and after-care products, and customers from all over the country have been ordering from us.

5. How has utilizing Shopify impacted your business?

We've been able to reach a wider audience with our online store. It's also helped us keep up with inventory and keep track of our orders more efficiently. Shopify's user-friendly platform has made it easy for customers to navigate our website, and we've received a lot of positive feedback on it.

6. What would you say sets your studio apart from others in the area?

Our focus on customer service definitely sets us apart. Like I mentioned earlier, we want our clients to feel comfortable and welcome. We also pride ourselves on being knowledgeable about piercing and aftercare. We stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and trends in the industry.

7. What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own piercing business?

First and foremost, make sure you have a good understanding of the industry and the science behind piercing. It's also important to have a clear brand identity and stick to it. Lastly, don't be afraid to take risks and try new things like branching out into e-commerce. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve your goals and make your business a success.

Thank you Mia for sharing your insights and challenges in the piercing industry with us! We wish you continued success in Portland and online.

         

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