I unfortunately feel the need to write this review because I can't stop thinking about this…read moreinteraction.
I originally chose this shop because I trusted they would do a great job. Samantha pierced my nose on December 1, and she also pierced my husband's nose previously. We've both had nothing but positive experiences with her, which makes this even more disappointing.
I arrived about 15 minutes early for my appointment because we finished lunch sooner than expected. When I checked in, I specifically said, "We're early, but I have an appointment at 2:45," fully expecting to wait. The response I received was, "Well, we work by appointment, and we're assisting other appointments ahead of you." While that was true, the delivery felt unnecessarily condescending. My husband and I both commented afterward that the interaction immediately felt off.
My appointment was simply to check whether my piercing had healed enough for a hoop and if not, to get new jewelry that would be easier to clean than the sparkle I had in. I had already come in a few months earlier to have the post downsized, and at that time I was told it wasn't ready yet and to come back later. During this visit, I explained that I got the piercing on December 1. To which he laughed and I don't understand why. I'm type A and I just know these details and thought I was being helpful by including a little more context. I explained that my goal was eventually to switch to a hoop if it had healed enough.
After examining it, he said he would not recommend a hoop yet, which was completely fine--I came in specifically to get professional guidance. He then told me that if he were me, he would stop putting makeup on. I understand that makeup can slow healing, but the way it was communicated came across as judgmental rather than educational. I replied that I wasn't going to stop wearing makeup, and he explained that it would continue to heal more slowly. Fine. I was simply there to check and understand where I was in the process. I know that I'm not the expert, telling me to not wear makeup for months on end is completely unrealistic and I'm sure many women feel the same.
I ended up choosing different jewelry instead of a hoop, and he changed it for me. He also took the time to thoroughly explain how to safely change my jewelry myself, which I genuinely appreciated. I'm happy with the new jewelry, the fit, and the information he shared.
Unfortunately, the overall attitude throughout the appointment overshadowed those positives. I left feeling uncomfortable rather than cared for. I even chose not to leave a tip, which is very unusual for me because I always tip for services.
When I checked out, both staff members were kind and let me know they would be happy to help me change my jewelry in the future if I needed it. I appreciated that, but by then I had already decided I won't return. Feeling uncertain about what kind of interaction I'll have each time I come in--especially when I eventually want a hoop--creates more anxiety than it's worth.
It's disappointing because I truly believe the shop provides quality work, and Samantha has been wonderful. I just wish the customer experience had matched the quality of the service I received. I understand that tone and what I experienced was subjective, however, after seeing reviews others have experienced the same.
