Covid 19 Update for Summer Hamrick Tattoos

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

As of the time of this post, the state of Tennessee nor the federal government have indicated that normal operations of tattoo shops should cease. However, I would like to communicate with you guys should things take a strange turn (as they have been for most of 2020). 

Normal Operations During Covid 19 Coronavirus
If tattoo shops are allowed to continue to operate as normal in the following weeks, I do want to ask clients and visitors to the shop to use your very best judgement. It appears that this virus can be passed through the air by people that are showing no symptoms. It's unsettling, as some of the artists at the shop do have family members with compromised immune systems. Tattooing isn't an occupation that offers any sick days or paid time off, so most tattoo artists will still be working until we're told not to. It's our livelihood. If we're not tattooing, we're not making money. That said, if you are feeling under the weather, please, do reschedule your appointment. During this time, no one that has left a deposit with me will lose it. I will move your deposit out as far as we need to. You may be strong and healthy but the person walking in behind you may not be. We do our best to keep the shop clean and orderly, but there really is nothing we can do about airborne illness. Now or Never management has also asked that our clients limit the number of guests that you bring to your appointment. If it is possible to only have yourself present for the appointment, that is preferred at this time. 

If Normal Operations Are Not Possible
If federal or local government mandate that business as usual must temporarily halt, please note the following.

• Deposits aren't refundable (as per usual, unless otherwise stated by Now or Never Gallery). This has been a long-standing policy for a few reasons. First, that deposit doesn't go directly into my pocket. This is paid to the shop and is later factored into my pay.  Secondly, once a small business receives a payment, it goes straight to work supplying and maintaining a healthy and properly functioning operation. All deposits left with me will be honored if appointments must be postponed (we hope it won't get to that point).
• Under the circumstance that business must temporarily be suspended, all appointments from the date at which this is implemented will simply be moved forward by whatever increment is mandated (example: 2 week quarantine/lockdown would move appointments back 14 days. If we factor in days off, Sunday closings and adjustments in client schedules, this could be a few days less or more). Should this scenario occur (we hope it doesn't!), I will make an immediate announcement via Facebook and Instagram, then I'll begin reaching out to clients individually via email or phone. Please be sure to check emails and voicemails regularly. 

Final Thoughts
For the 18th time, I hope that we don't have any interrupts and that life will begin to normalize quickly for all of us. If you're like me, though, you enjoy knowing the "but what if?" and that's what this post is about. As we move through this crisis, there are a few things that I want to point out. 

1. There's always an opportunity to love your neighbors (even when they seem unlovable). If someone is feeling uncertain and afraid, be patient with them. Don't be angry and frustrated. Ask what might help them feel more at peace. If you have an elderly or immune-compromised friend or neighbor, ask them what you can do to help them out. We're in it together and if we help each other and treat each other with respect, this situation will be a lot more tolerable for all of us.
2. If you're feeling stressed or afraid, take a deep breath, recognize and identify your emotions and look for ways take power over the situation. Prayer and mediation, reading a good book, cleaning and preparing your home or learning a new skill/hobby are just a few ways to focus your time and energy in a more positive direction. Talk to your friends and family about your concerns. If you're not worried, be a good listener for those who are. If you are feeling severely overwhelmed, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has a Disaster Distress helpline: 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746. For more information on coping with crisis visit the CDC website.
3. Be considerate. A huge way to care for your community is to not be a potential carrier. Chronically ill people are plentiful and they may not look the way you expect. If you don't need to be out, stay home, put your feet up and put on a good movie. Who knew helping was so easy?

Be safe and take care of each other!