Celebrating 25 Years of Ink and Family in Charlotte
Charlotte, a city known for its rapidly evolving culture and vibrant communities, has a special place in its heart for Tattoo Bill’s, a local tattoo shop that has stood the test of time. This year marks an exciting milestone as Tattoo Bill’s celebrates its 25th anniversary. Its legacy is a story of dreams, family ties, and changing perceptions about tattoos.
A Dream Realized
Back in 1999, William “Bill” Thigpen dared to dream big when he opened the doors of Tattoo Bill’s in a modest 900 square foot space located in a Steele Creek strip mall. But things weren’t a walk in the park. At that time, tattoo parlors in Charlotte were few and far between, grappling with an unshakable stigma. Bill faced skepticism from landlords who saw tattoos as taboo, but his passion drove him to make it happen.
“There were probably three or four shops in the very beginning in Charlotte,” said Kenny Thigpen, Bill’s son. “My dad was a former Marine, and he grew up in a different tattoo culture.” Indeed, tattoos were a popular form of expression for many, especially military personnel. Bill learned the craft from his father and grandfather, who had been tattoo artists themselves. This lineage made opening his own shop not just a career move but a stepping stone into his family’s traditions.
The Family Affair Behind Tattoo Bill’s
Fast forward to today; Tattoo Bill’s isn’t just a shop; it’s a family endeavor. Kenny, alongside his nephew Stewart Thigpen, manages the shop’s daily operations. Other family members have also contributed over the years: Bill’s brother Frank oversees the tattoo removal services, while their mother, Sandra, keeps the books in order. Sadly, Bill and his son Chris passed away in 2019, but their legacy remains alive in the shop’s heart and soul.
Growth and Evolution
Since its inception, Tattoo Bill’s has seen remarkable growth. What began as a simple tattoo parlor has expanded to a spacious 3,500-square-foot facility and now boasts a diverse team of nine tattoo artists, specializing in various styles from American traditional to black and gray realism. The family’s journey reflects a significant shift in tattoo culture, especially concerning women. “In the early ’90s, it was 60-70 percent men,” Frank noted. “Now it’s changed to about 60-70 percent women getting tattoos.”
This transformation indicates that tattoos have transitioned from being seen as a rebellious act to a celebrated form of self-expression embraced by everyone, regardless of gender. The changing times brought a flood of new styles and attitudes towards body art, with an array of tattoos reflecting personal stories and tastes.
Community Impact
Today, Tattoo Bill’s holds a cherished status in the Charlotte community, often celebrated by the very people it serves. In 2023, readers of a local publication voted Tattoo Bill’s as their favorite tattoo shop, an indication of the family’s hard work and dedication. “We’ve stayed in business because of our good name and loyal following,” Kenny shared. “We try to treat people fairly every day.”
Join the Celebration!
To mark this significant anniversary, Tattoo Bill’s is throwing a celebration that’ll make you want to join the fun! On October 5, the shop will host a special 25th-anniversary party from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Expect catered food, giveaways, Tattoo Bill’s merchandise, and raffles throughout the day. It’s a perfect opportunity to meet the family behind the shop and maybe even walk away with some fresh ink or a piercing!
As Charlotte continues to grow and change, so too does the legacy of Tattoo Bill’s. With its roots firmly planted in family and community, it’s poised to remain a beloved institution for many more years to come. So, whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the tattoo scene, mark your calendar for this special event!
