Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Johnson
Hi Heather, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
From a young age, I’ve had a passion for self expression. I was always the family/friend nail tech, hair stylist, makeup artist, you name it- I wanted to be the one to do it. I wanted to make others feel confident and beautiful. As I got older, my focus shifted to a different type of beauty and individuality, and the love for body modifications started. At 14, I begged for just one tiny nose ring. Spoiler alert, it wasn’t just one tiny nose ring. After that, my entire world opened. Each piercing I got, I loved that part of me more and the memories attached will always be my brightest ones. I couldn’t wait to be just like my piercers one day. I have struggled with mental health and as an attempt to heal I began getting tattooed. The shop was my safe space and the time that I felt 100% at peace. My mom, who has been one of my biggest supporters, joked that I was in the shop so much I should just go work at one. Well, I took that literally. At 18, I got incredibly lucky to find a piercing apprenticeship that would take me. After graduating my apprenticeship I ended up working in a different shop that I feel really taught me about this industry. Even though I loved the shop environment, it ended up clashing with my desired practices/business morals. I felt like I couldn’t give my full attention, precision, and love for the art to each and every client. Thinking of my experiences and client feedback, I made the decision to go solo. I wanted something accessible for everyone, somewhere safe and private. This allowed me to connect and create on a deeper level. When people think of piercing, the depth to the art is severely overlooked. Body piercing has such a fascinating history attached. Yes, sometimes we are just giving a piercing because it’s cute. But we are also playing a role in defending bodily autonomy, self love and expression, cultural and spiritual practices, helping survivors reclaim their bodies, and the list goes on. I am incredibly grateful to be able to provide such meaningful service(s) and be a part of this growing industry. Thank you to each and every client/future client I have had since without you I wouldn’t be where I am.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’ve been sitting here trying to think of how to answer this. Sure, you have your typical learning to grow, adapt to change, over working, etc. But I want to bring up the age of social media and piercing. I truthfully think this is one of the most difficult obstacles I, and many others in the industry, struggle with navigating. We’re in this interesting funk of society where everything and anything is right at our fingertips with one search away. In a lot of ways this is an amazing advancement but there are a lot of struggles I’ve faced with it. The internet creates a lot of unrealistic expectations and talking down those expectations with yourself and clients can be challenging. I had to really force myself to learn boundaries and trust in myself and my knowledge. I struggled with imposter syndrome heavily when I started and I still do on occasion. When all you’re seeing is perfection online, making a little mistake feels like the end of the world. We’re all human and the reality is we make mistakes and that’s okay because I wouldn’t know what I know without them!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Professional body piercing all day, everyday! At my studio, I focus on the experience from the second you walk in the door all the way through the healing process and as long as you need me. I’ve been told I have “the magic touch”. Am I actually magic? I wish, but the reality is I keep up with industry standards and strive to help my clients accomplish happy and healthy healed piercings, even if I was not the one to perform them. I want my clients to feel confident in their healing journey. I carry a wide selection of high quality jewelry, and I’m positive you’ll find something you love from the start! I love the bright smile on people’s faces when they realize they don’t have to start out with “a silver ball”.
I do multiple piercing services/locations but my favorite is ears. I love doing ear curations, especially with a theme. I’ve done album covers, movies, anime, nature, and I am always looking for clients to let me get creative with.
What makes you happy?
Body piercing makes me happy of course! I ended up with a career that I love, and I wouldn’t change that for the world. Aside from my work, I am a full time pet parent. I have 9 (and counting) pets at home from geckos to dogs, that are my main motivation. I’ve always had a passion for every critter, big or small, and enjoy learning and caring for them in my spare time. Aside from animals, I am a huge music lover and horror nerd!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://heatherraepiercings.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherraepiercings/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085415502054
