Today we’d like to introduce you to Sariah Stout.
Hi Sariah, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
One of my favorite things to do in life is to create. My mother raised me to be an artist and a dreamer, and I have always been extremely ambitious! Growing up, I knew that I would need to build something beautiful to feel fulfilled in life.
When I was a teenager, my health started to take a bit of a turn. What began as stomach pain slowly progressed into other symptoms as I got older. For someone who thrived on social connection and new experiences, this felt devastating. I found ways to manage the symptoms by eating differently and making sure I got enough sleep, but I still felt limited in my ability to pursue the goals I had set for myself.
I got married in 2023, and my husband took on the responsibility of working so that I could step back and really search for what I felt called to do. I tried so many different things, from sales to photography to herbalism, but everything I attempted left me feeling more burnt out and discouraged. Eventually, I stopped everything for a while and focused on healing and trying to get my strength back.
During that time, I took an energy work course after seeing the effects it had on my own life. For a while, I felt hopeful about starting a career on that path. But over time, I realized that what I was really missing was in-person human connection.
One day, I impulsively decided to get a piercing with one of my friends. I had no idea how much that day would change my life! Sitting in the studio, I remember thinking about how fun it would be to become a piercer and help other people feel safe and beautiful. That was the moment I realized this was something I wanted to make my own.
I have always been very detail oriented and drawn to beautiful things, and piercings are no different. I love the artistry of curating ears and helping people find jewelry that fits them perfectly. But more than anything, I love people. Everyone who sits in my chair has a story, and I feel so lucky to hear them!
I started my business by booth renting a space, which allowed me to meet so many incredible piercers! I will always be grateful that this career has led me to such wonderful friendships. I wasn’t sure how long it would take before I could have my own studio, but somehow everything aligned at the right time and I was able to open my own little space in Orem.
I designed the studio to feel boutique-style and calm, a place where anyone can walk in and feel safe. Piercings make many people nervous, and it has become my goal to make every client feel as comfortable and cared for as possible.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been easy! I struggle a lot with perfectionism (don’t we all?), and piercing is one of those things where you really only get one shot to do it right. The first time I lined a needle up to a client’s ear, my hands were so shaky. I was terrified of getting it wrong. I’m incredibly grateful for my trainer, who was always so encouraging and believed in me even when I struggled to believe in myself.
Trust is not something I take lightly, and I know that as a professional, my clients expect me to take good care of them in such a vulnerable moment. Because of that, I poured myself into learning as much as I possibly could. If there was something I didn’t know, I would spend hours digging through every resource I could find so I could better understand it. Of course I still learn something new every day, but looking back I’ve come a long way since the beginning.
On the business side, I’ve always loved solving complicated problems. They feel like puzzles to me. From the very beginning, I knew I wanted to create a brand that felt warm, soft, and welcoming. Social media definitely gave me a run for my money, though! It’s hard to be so passionate about what you do and have the algorithm barely show your content to anyone in the beginning. I had to learn pretty quickly what worked and what didn’t in order to start reaching more people.
And then there’s my health, which is something I’m still actively working to improve. I’ve had to be very intentional about limiting the days and hours that I work so I don’t burn myself out. I wish very much that I could spend more time in the studio, but learning to listen to my body and pace myself has been an important part of the journey.
There are many amazing piercers out there, and while I strongly believe there is room for all of us to be successful and thriving, it can still be challenging to figure out how to stand out and let your own unique style shine through. Over time, I’ve realized that the best thing I can do is simply build something that feels authentic to me.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Studio Poppy Piercings?
I am a hollow needle piercer specializing in dainty ear and nostril piercings! My studio, Studio Poppy, was intentionally designed to inspire calm. I wanted to create a space where clients feel comfortable, welcomed, and taken care of from the moment they walk in (plus, I’ve got great snacks!).
I take my time during every appointment to make sure the placement is perfect. I never want my clients to feel bad for asking me to adjust the placement before we pierce. It’ll be on their ear forever! I want them to feel completely confident and excited about the final result. My goal is for every person who sits in my chair to leave feeling 100% happy and in love with their new piercing.
I specialize in curated ear piercings and dainty jewelry. Every ear is so unique, and I really love paying attention to the little details that make each person’s anatomy and style different. I take a lot of care in finding placements that flow naturally with someone’s ear and match their overall vibe. One of my favorite things is helping clients slowly build their ear stacks over time, adding new pieces and placements as their piercings heal.
I carry high quality flat back studs and hoops that are designed to be both beautiful and comfortable for everyday wear. Many of my clients come to me specifically because they love my jewelry selection! Even after the piercing heals, I love seeing familiar faces when clients come back to upgrade their jewelry or add something new.
For clients who don’t live nearby, my jewelry is also available to browse online, and I ship across the country.
I’m incredibly proud of the brand I’ve built. Studio Poppy is truly my baby. I’ve poured so much time, creativity, and care into creating a space and experience that feels warm, personal, and intentional, and it’s been amazing to watch it continue to grow.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
When I was maybe 6 or 7, I taped together a bunch of bendy straws to make a really long straw for my dad. He used to drink a giant glass of water in the middle of the night, and I wanted him to be able to drink it without needing to sit up. I remember being so proud of my invention! Looking back, I think that little moment captures something about me; I’ve always loved finding creative solutions to small problems and doing thoughtful things for the people I care about.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://studiopoppypiercings.com
- Instagram: studiopoppypiercings
