Q&A with Jason King: Oklahoma City piercing shop marks 23 years in business
by Paula Burkes
Published: Thu, May 17, 2018 5:00 AM
Jason King is owner of 23rd Street Body Piercing, 411 NW 23.
Local piercing shop marks 23 years in business
Q: When you opened 23rd Street Body Piercing in 1995, did you think the street would ever see a rebirth?
A: A rebirth was really hard to imagine back in 1995. We are in the Ed Reynolds Flower building, on a strip of historic Route 66. This was THE street back in the day. If it was happening in Oklahoma City, it was happening here. I can say that I am amazed at how far the street has come. I can't wait to see how far it goes.
Q: How has your clientele changed over the past 23 years?
A: We've always had an extremely diverse clientele: moms, children, professionals, white collar, blue collar, you name it. The fun part has been seeing our original clients' children turn 18 and come in on their own to get a piercing. I hope we are around to see the third generation come in.
Q: How have the regulations changed?
A: We have them now; in 1995, we didn't. It wasn't easy getting them to where they are today. They will be better in the future. Whatever needs to happen to keep the people of Oklahoma safe.
Q: What have you observed about your community over your years in business?
A: It's been an honor to be a foothold for future businesses here in uptown. This neighborhood is progressive, compassionate and well-rooted. There are only great things on the horizon for this area.
Q: How does your firm's longevity compare with your industry as a whole?
A: We're among the top three or four studios in the country. There aren't that many of us that operate at this level of quality for this long. It's a testament to the demand for clean, safe piercings here in Oklahoma.
PAULA BURKES, BUSINESS WRITER
Paula Burkes
A 1981 journalism graduate of Oklahoma State University, Paula Burkes has more than 30 years experience writing and editing award-winning material for newspapers and healthcare, educational and telecommunications institutions in Tulsa, Oklahoma... Read more ›
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