Celebrating 25 Years of Good Vibes!
Good Vibes is celebrating a milestone anniversary, 25 years in Downtown Mount Vernon! Read on for an interview with owner Darius Sessions to learn a little more about her story and this incredible achievement!
Can you share the story behind starting your business 25 years ago?
When I first got into tattooing, I knew I wanted to open my own shop. After just three years in the industry, I decided to make that dream a reality. I thought Downtown Mount Vernon was charming and a great fit for us, so we set up shop here! We opened in 1999, and I’ve been the sole owner since 2011. At first, I didn’t expect to stay long; I figured we’d be here for a year or so before heading back to Bellingham. But as I became part of the community, I realized this was my true home. The people here treat you like family, and I’ve received support on so many levels. Downtown Mount Vernon feels like family to me, and I truly love it.
What makes your business unique?
I believe it’s the care we take with our community. We’ve started a charity event where we curate a set of flash designs and offer them at a discounted price once a year. We choose a charity and donate 100% of the proceeds to that organization.
We're not your typical high-pressure environment, we prioritize a personal experience with each client through consultations and design reviews to ensure we meet their needs, in private rooms which is unique in the industry. We have a very boutique-style atmosphere. Additionally, we're an all-cis-female shop, which we really paved the way especially in the beginning. I believe we bring a softer, more inclusive vibe to the field.
What do you consider to be your proudest achievement as a business owner?
I’m proud of a lot. I’m incredibly proud of the artists and clientele we attract, the fact that we are a vital part of the community, (even more so as a somewhat fringe business in the community), and that we get to provide a way for people to explore their creative sides through body art, all in a safe and fun environment. I also think being a pioneer for a different approach to tattooing over the past 25 years has made a difference in the industry and I’m proud of that as well.
How do you stay motivated and inspired after so many years in business?
The industry is ever-changing and evolving. Right now is an exciting time for us; we’re in a great spot, collaborating, supporting each other, and growing together as a community.
How do you plan to celebrate this 25th anniversary with your team and customers?
We’re having a party at Riverside Lanes on November 16 at 8 PM, with a silver-themed dress code! We’ll have door prizes, live bands, and a raffle for a tattoo!
