April 10, 2017

Meet Chris Cho of Side Show Venice Tattoos in Venice Beach

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Cho.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
This shop was passed down from my father. He opened this shop in the mid 80’s. So, it holds a lot of sentimental value. He raised us here. On the boardwalk of Venice Beach. A lot of us were raised here. And a lot of tattoo artists graduated from here.

We grew up as family. We didn’t have much, but we had each other, and that was plenty. Drawing, skating, surfing, drinking, fighting, falling in love… we did it all… that was life.

Growing up at the shop we saw a lot craziness and beauty all at the same time. I think that’s what makes our shop so unique. We hold it down with deep roots. We love giving back to our community. Whatever it takes, because we understand what it took to survive here.

We have a lot of neighborhood pride. We know everyone here. We’ve seen a lot of goods and bads and also lots of successes. The bond that we share with the community is what holds us together and separates us from the rest. We are not just a shop, we are family.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Of course there are lots of struggles in running a business but as long as we stick together. Side Show Venice will always be here.

I’m so proud of all our artists, they are my brothers and sisters. We struggle together and we eat together.

Side Show Venice Tattoos – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We understand every tattoo is sacred and we treat every customer with respect.

It’s not just about getting paid. It’s about creating that masterpiece you will be proud to carry for the rest of your life. Doesn’t matter how small or how big the piece. Getting tatted is a very sacred act. So, it’s important to us to make sure your vision is understood and expressed in the best manner. And of course comfort is a big part as well. If you’re not comfortable we don’t even get started.

What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
We’re proud and grateful every day. Every day is another day to make a beautiful impact into the world.

And we do our part one tattoo at a time : )

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