We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Bree Solomon. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Bree below.

Bree, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What sort of legacy are you hoping to build. What do you think people will say about you after you are gone, what do you hope to be remembered for?

When we opened this business with the hope that we’d be able to cater to clients in a way that felt like they were part of something more than just a one time tattoo or a guest in someone else’s culture or industry. We wanted people to feel like they were friends and not just another number we took in for that day. That their designs were memories and experiences left impressions on both them and us while at the same time cementing us in the community as a safe place for anyone who wanted to partake in this amazing industry full of art and living canvases.

Bree, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

About 14 years ago Charly Reynoso brought me an idea to open a new tattoo shop in Venice. Already being a seasoned veteran in the industry and resident to the area, it felt like a really great endeavor to join in together. We created this place where we’ve grown artists and fostered creativity to the most unlikely of people, it’s been quite a journey and so much fun along the way. I’ve learned so many useful skills catering to clients of all walks and shapes of life, you learn a lot about people and the society we live in having so many people come through your doors. I’m so proud of the team that works with us, they’re amazing individuals, truly gifted and talented, but also caring and kind people.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

I’m not sure about unlearning, but certainly learning lessons along the way. Like one bad apple can spoil the bunch. It’s absolutely a true statement and there is so much sentiment in that. One person can completely throw off the good vibes or energy of your group or team and it can be so damaging it’s hard to recover from. We’ve experienced that a couple of times and I’m thankful we were able to get past it, but it leaves a lingering bad taste for everyone who’s had to deal with someone who comes in with a negative approach. Be super selective with who you choose to bring into your business or work space, it absolutely makes a difference, you can be good at what you do and still not a good fit for every group. It has to flow both directions to be a good fit that will work long term.

Can you talk to us about your experience with buying businesses?

We took over a couple of other locations in the past, former tattoo shops, but converted them into our locations. One ended so badly it’s almost comical. We trusted a friend at the time to manage the location, and he did everything except that. In the end we learned the hard lesson that most things will never be done as well as you’ll do them yourself, so trust only in those who can and will carry the same weight as what you are. Otherwise, don’t waste the time as you’ll never get it back.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.blackdiamondtattoo.com
• Instagram: blackdiamondtattoola
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackdiamondtattoo
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/black-diamond-tattoo-venice-3