Tell Us Your Story. What motivated you to start your business? Why are you passionate about what you do?

The journey of Liquid Amber Tattoo & Art Collective began in 2001, born out of a shared dream between Luvia Petersen and Justina Kervel. They envisioned a space where art and tattooing could merge seamlessly, creating a community that celebrated diversity, creativity, and personal expression. Justina’s passion for art and Luvia’s desire to break barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry fueled their motivation. Growing up, both Luvia and Justina often felt like outliers in society, not finding many places where they could exist without judgment. Recognizing the need for a space where creativity could flourish without constraints, they decided to create such a space for themselves and others. Starting Liquid Amber was that space! As a queer-women-owned studio, they wanted to provide a nurturing environment where people from all walks of life could feel comfortable expressing themselves through ink. They are dedicated to fostering an affirming community for both their clients and artists, emphasizing respect, support, and empowerment. Their passion extends beyond tattooing to the broader art community. By hosting regular ART SOCIAL events and showcasing local artists, they aim to inspire and connect people through the universal language of art. Seeing the impact their studio has on individuals and the community continuously fuels their dedication. Ultimately, Luvia and Justina's passion for what they do stems from the incredible stories they get to be a part of and the lasting connections they create. Tattooing is not just a profession for them; it’s a calling that allows them to blend artistry with personal narratives, leaving a lasting mark on the lives of those they touch.

Describe and demonstrate, including metrics, your community support. How do you support and uplift your community, and how do they show that support in return? Minimum 25 words, maximum 2500 characters.

Liquid Amber Tattoo & Art Collective is deeply committed to supporting and uplifting our community. We actively create opportunities for local artists and foster an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity. One of our key initiatives is hosting regular ART SOCIAL events. These gatherings showcase the work of local and international artists, providing them with a platform to connect with the community, share their creative processes, and inspire others. Our events consistently draw large crowds, with attendance averaging 100-200 people per event. These events not only promote artists but also foster a sense of community and connection among attendees. Additionally, we offer apprenticeship programs to aspiring tattoo artists, particularly focusing on women and LGBTQ+ individuals. Over the years, we have successfully trained and mentored over 30 artists, many of whom have gone on to establish their own successful careers. This program helps break down barriers in the tattoo industry and provides valuable opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Why do you deserve to win the Business Impact award?

We deserve to win the Business Impact award because Liquid Amber Tattoo & Art Collective has demonstrated a profound commitment to making a positive difference in the community. From providing a welcoming and inclusive space for artists and clients to promoting sustainability and supporting local charities, our studio has consistently gone above and beyond to create meaningful impact. Our pioneering approach to hiring artists as employees, offering benefits, and prioritizing their well-being sets a new standard in the industry, showcasing leadership and dedication to fostering a healthy workplace culture. Additionally, our efforts to showcase local artists and host community events further contribute to the cultural and artistic vibrancy of Vancouver. Overall, Liquid Amber Tattoo & Art Collective's unwavering dedication to making a difference in people's lives through art and inclusivity makes it truly deserving of the Business Impact award.

Tell Us About Your Culture. How are you creating a sustainable and healthy workplace where everyone feels welcome? Provide examples of leadership you show in interactions with clients, vendors, contractors, staff and others.

At Liquid Amber Tattoo & Art Collective, we are dedicated to creating a sustainable and healthy workplace where everyone feels valued and welcome. Our commitment to inclusivity and respect is evident in every aspect of our operations. One of the ways we prioritize our artists' well-being is by hiring them as employees rather than contract workers, which is unheard of in our industry. This decision was made to provide our artists with the security and benefits of being employees, including access to health insurance, paid time off, and a stable income. By investing in our artists' well-being, we are able to foster a strong sense of loyalty and commitment among our team members. Leadership at Liquid Amber is exemplified through our interactions with clients, vendors, contractors, and staff. Our team members lead by example, demonstrating clear and respectful communication in all interactions. We prioritize creating a welcoming environment for everyone who walks through our doors, ensuring that they feel valued and respected. For example, our leadership team regularly checks in with staff to ensure their well-being and address any concerns they may have. We also provide ongoing training and development opportunities to support the growth of our team members. Additionally, we prioritize sustainability in our practices, using environmentally friendly products and minimizing waste in our operations. In interactions with clients, we strive to create a positive and memorable experience. Our artists take the time to listen to their ideas and concerns, ensuring that they feel comfortable throughout the tattooing process. By building rapport with our clients, we are able to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. Overall, our culture at Liquid Amber Tattoo & Art Collective is centered around creating a sustainable and healthy workplace where everyone feels welcome. Through our commitment to inclusivity, respect, and leadership, we continue to build a positive and inclusive environment for our team and clients alike.

Why do you think you should win the Premier’s People’s Choice Award?

I believe Liquid Amber Tattoo & Art Collective should win the Premier’s People’s Choice Award due to our unwavering dedication to our community and our commitment to fostering a welcoming space for all clients. While tattoo studios often carry a reputation for being intimidating or unwelcoming, Liquid Amber strives to defy this stereotype. Our studio not only serves as a space for tattoo artists but also as a platform for local artists and vendors to showcase their work through events like our ART SOCIAL gatherings. These events provide a casual and stress-free environment for the community to engage with art, connect with artists, and interact with other art enthusiasts. Our efforts have garnered significant recognition. We proudly maintain a 4.7-star rating with over 463 reviews on Google, reflecting our highly engaged audience and consistently positive feedback. Additionally, Vancouver's Georgia Straight has repeatedly recognized us in their "Best of Vancouver" awards as one of the top-tier tattoo studios. Winning the Premier’s People’s Choice Award would not only be a tremendous honor for us but also a validation of the profound impact we have had on our community.