We recently connected with Sydney Cheyenne and have shared our conversation below.

Sydney , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Naming anything – including a business – is so hard. Right? What’s the story behind how you came up with the name of your brand?

My partner, Alec, and I really wanted a name that would emulate a certain feeling when you hear it: something that represented progress, peace, and good vibes. We started to think about the music we listen to, and most of it is ’70s rock and disco. So we came up with Groovy Tattoo. Looking through the kaleidoscope glass and peeking through the history of the ’70s, there were so many advancements in women’s rights and peace treaties amongst different cultures. The first Earth Day was created in the ’70s, an impactful moment in history that really shaped this energy at the time. Not to mention the beautiful art and music of the time. We want to bring that vibe into the tattoo world and create a peaceful place for people to come and get body alterations while expressing themselves freely.

Sydney , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

It took a lot of discipline to get started, but now I can say I am a professional tattoo artist specializing in fine line and black and grey work. Along with that, I now provide services such as piercing, tooth gems, and permanent makeup.

What problems do you solve for your clients?

As far as problem-solving for clients goes, cover-ups would count. I have a lot of people come to me asking if I can cover up something that they no longer resonate with. It’s always a nerve-wracking process for the client since they’ve had a tattoo they hated for so long on their body. But the trust I get really goes a long way. Once they see it finished, everything changes. It’s like a whole new them. Another thing that I think helps people is memorial tattoos. I’ve done so many since starting out and have gained a deep perspective on people who are grieving and how tattoos can actually help them close a chapter in their lives and heal. One of my best friends has dedicated both of his arms to his late wife. Each tattoo represents a memory they had together. In instances like this, I always try to make sure I hear my client and sit with them, really trying to put myself in their shoes so that I can create something they can look at dearly every day. It’s a very intimate process. I feel these moments help heal, and if I’m being honest, it helps me as well. It really humbles me and puts my life into perspective that what I’m going through is not the end of the world, and connecting with people is what really keeps the peace in my brain.

I’m really proud to say that, no matter who you are, what race you are, or what gender you identify with, whether you are part of the LGBTQ+ community or have a disability, I will not judge you; everyone should feel welcome in a tattoo shop. And you are most definitely welcome at Groovy Tattoo. This is a judgment-free zone. At the root of tattooing, it’s an expression of yourself on your skin and can be a vulnerable state at times. I’ll be here to give you the groovy and safe experience you are looking for. Whether you’re looking for a memorial tattoo, a quick piercing, or a spontaneous night with friends, Groovy Tattoo is here for you. The world needs art because without it, it’s boring. But what better way to view art than as an extension of yourself?

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I feel that my entire career is a story of resilience. I had to learn the hard way that not everyone has your back in the industry, and unfortunately, it can get very nasty in some workplaces. I’ve dealt with racism, fat-shaming, disingenuous help, and there have been times when the shop owner made clients feel uncomfortable while tattooing. I felt a very misogynistic presence in some of these shops. These are just some of the things I’ve dealt with while working for different tattoo shops. At times, the workplace abuse became too much for my mental health, and I really contemplated giving up several times. I felt insignificant many times, like I couldn’t create my own space – when really, I had the ability the whole time. Though I did go through some very traumatic times, I am thankful for the perspective because I know exactly how I want people to feel at Groovy Tattoo, and I have full control of the situation. My partner and I love making people happy, and we pride ourselves on our customer service.

Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?

I met my partner, Alec, back in 2019; he was a client at first. He got tattooed with me, and we really hit it off. We became great friends and then eventually started dating a year or so later. Alec is a naturally talented musician/songwriter; he plays guitar and piano. Since we’ve been dating, he has picked up an interest in tattooing. I’ve slowly been teaching him everything I know. After seeing the struggles I have dealt with and his love for tattooing as well, we decided to partner up and open our private studio, Groovy Tattoo, this year. It works out great because naturally we’re best friends and love to be around each other in a creative space. We flow really well together as business/life partners, like two koi fish in a pond.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.groovytattoostudio.com/?fbclid=PAAaaDMG_XBdBI8ZdW5z49t1rEVAx4emNhTa2-qPxPW0_Vs5He56bA9y6v07A_aem_ARHXA8NtrN9GIChO1VsEPZu4EM9twy1IoPX7ACryAOpEw2UP5s3WD4pSk2msF8H-Zeg
• Instagram: @groovytattooco @inkbysyd

Image Credits
Claudio Molina, Media Haus Miami