We had the good fortune of connecting with Vanessa Stephens and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vanessa, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My wife and I have been in the tattoo and piercing industry collectively for over 20 years, we have worked for so many different studios and we wanted to create a place for our queer community. It’s one thing to be able to create art in a place where you’re just accepted, it’s another to create art in a place where you’re celebrated, loved and respected. We believe Tattoos and Piercings are sacred rituals that we create with our clients, and we wanted to open a space where people can feel that.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have been a body piercer for over 15 years, Haley has been a tattoo artist for over 5, starting out with cosmetic tattooing in Texas and evolving into the tattoo artist she is today. We also are involved in the queer entertainment industry, Haley is a drag king and I am a singer. We draw a lot of inspiration from our community, from wanting to create representation of marginalized groups. Our art is an act of bringing our community together and creating a safe space for us to express ourselves.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Definitely like to go into downtown Denver. Take them to the LGBTQIA+ establishments, to local art walks or farmers markets. Supporting local small businesses is very important.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My wife, Haley Stephens, who is the co-founder of the studio, as well as our friends and family who’ve supported us throughout the years.

Website: https://Www.covenbodymods.com

Instagram: CovenBodyMods

Facebook: Coven Body Modifications

Yelp: Coven Body Mods

Image Credits
Jay Cupcake for the first picture of Haley and Vanessa. The others were taken by Vanessa and/or Haley Stephens

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.