Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiyana Clark.
Hi Tiyana, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
A couple of years ago, I was hired as an Assistant Store Manager at Claire’s. Claire’s is a kid and teen costume jewelry store that also specializes in ear piercings. A few weeks into my position, the store manager quit and I was offered the position of full-time store manager in both Oglethorpe Mall here in Savannah as well as the store in the Tanger Outlet Mall in Pooler, Ga. I spent about three and a half years with the company, driving from my residence in Beaufort, South Carolina at the time, meeting tons of people, and piercing countless ears.
I’ve grown to become a friendly face in the mall as well as the city as people would line up just for me to pierce them or their children. As time went on and with the help of my brother doing some research, I was informed that I was underpaid according to Glassdoor. I brought it to the attention of my district manager and kindly asked for a raise. I was instantly told no, she said I was the highest-paid manager in this area and she couldn’t offer me anymore. That’s when my lightbulb went off and I told myself I deserved better. I quit the job and went to another company that appreciated me all the while grinding my gears and keeping my vision a secret.
I eventually decided that I no longer wanted to work for anyone and if strangers could line up to wait for me on someone else’s clock, I’m sure they’d do the same while on my own. I brainstormed, came up with a business name, branded it, and obtained my LLC. Now, it was takeoff time. I found a building in a great location with suites for rent and I applied. I got approved the same day and started ordering supplies, figuring out color schemes, and focusing on an opening date. I did a soft opening on September 06, 2019, with a grand opening on September 15, 2019. I initially started with piercing ears only because I knew what my vision was.
The business was going great, so great that everyone started asking for nose piercings. I declined for months on end and finally gave in. The nose piercings took off like a rocket and I’m glad I made the decision. I’m very passionate about my craft, my new and returning clients are absolutely amazing and I wouldn’t trade what I do for anything. I just reached my two-year mark and I’m very confident in many more years to come.
I have a booking site for everyone to utilize as well. Right now, I’m offering ear piercing, nose piercing, and watch link adjustments. Will I offer other piercings in the future? I’m not sure, I just talk to God and let Him lead the way.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
So far the road has been very smooth. My vendor is amazing and I almost never have an issue getting the products I need.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in ear and nose piercings. Kids are my motivation. I’m most proud of believing in myself enough to step out of faith and trust in me. I think what sets me apart from others is the private environment I created to make anyone who sits in my chair as comfortable as possible.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up in Trenton, New Jersey was very fun. City life is definitely different from southern life. I come from a large family. I’m the 3rd born out of nine children and the firstborn out of a set of triplets. Yes, you read that correctly, I’m a triplet. I’m super bubbly, caring, loving, and supportive. I’ve always had a passion for working and helping people.
Pricing:
- Ear Piercing: starts at $60.00
- Nose Piercing: starts at $50.00
- Cartilage Piercing: starts at $45.00
- Jewelry Change: $15.00
- Watch Adjustment: $15.00
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.tiyanastouchsav.as.me
- Instagram: Tiyanastouch_sav
- Facebook: Tiyana’s Touch Piercings N’ Such
