By Tamara Anne Fowler | CNA Media Team
It’s a love story as old as time with a modern day twist. Two sweethearts – Jag Seyd and Joshua Bighaus – moved to northeast Portland and in July 2020 they opened the doors of their tattoo shop.
“Sweet Heart Tattoo is a love letter to one another, to the art of tattoo and to our clients,’” Jag said. “’Sweet Heart’ is also a reference to my wonderful grandmother who was full of love and kindness. My grandmother always called me ‘sweetheart.’”
Jag was excited to get the spot. The corner of 30th Avenue and Killingsworth Street has always been a community gathering space with local restaurants, shops and services.
Almost every day Jag and Joshua traveled past the corner. One day they noticed, tucked in between several of the stylish eateries, a little space for lease.
Sweet Heart Tattoo’s space is small, but foot traffic in the shop is limited, and they sanitize between clients, plus everyone who enters goes through a COVID-19 screening questionnaire.
Although Sweet Heart Tattoo cannot accept walk-in clients at this time, sameday appointments are available if you call ahead to 503.432.8570.
In the future when there is a vaccine for COVID-19, the sweethearts plan to host guest artists, and they are open to adding another team member.
Jag also hopes to host community art and charitable events as soon as it is safe.
“COVID is actually a big reason why we decided to open Sweet Heart Tattoo,” Jag explained.
“Joshua and I wanted to be able to ensure our clients had the safest possible experience while getting tattooed. We both had been quarantined together since mid-March and had limited our outings to exercise and essential travel like groceries.
“We wear masks, frequently wash our hands and sanitize — doing everything we can to keep ourselves and our clients healthy, happy and safe.,” she added.
“I have never had neighbors like the neighbors I have here — truly caring, sharing people, willing to help in any way they can. They have fed us, lent us tools, offered help and anything else they have to give” Jag said with a smile.
“Concordia is a beautiful community to walk through with parks, tree-lined streets, amazing restaurants, coffee shops and hidden treasures,” she continued. “But nothing compares to the people.“
Tamara Anne Fowler is Edit Kitten, a writer with 20-plus years of experience offering a softer, gentler approach to editing and coaching. Her personal editors – Armani, Max Factor and Spicey’D – are also her cats. Visit her at EditKitten.com or contact her at Tamara@EditKitten. com.