By Nicole Sandler
Northside News
Okie Dokie Tattoos recently opened at 607 N. Sherman Ave., and owner Claire Warhus couldn’t be more excited about her new location. She said, “it was like coming home” when the storefront in Lakewood Plaza Shopping Center became available.
Not only does she count numerous business owners around her as friends, but many are also her clients. Warhus shares friendships and a love of tattoos with the owners of Black Saddle Bike Shop, Lola’s, and Tess Beauty and Barbering Suites, to name a few.
Location was key when Warhus first looked into opening Okie Dokie Tattoos, but just as important was finding a space that is fully accessible. “I’ve worked in a lot of beautiful spaces that did not meet ADA requirements or could not be brought up to code,” she said.
Her new location meets all her business needs (such as offering clients a parking lot) and is fully accessible. “I want my shop to embody that all bodies are welcome to get tattooed,” she explained. “It makes me happy when everyone is comfortable being in our space.”
What can one expect at Okie Dokie Tattoos? For one thing, it is an appointment-only shop, although anyone is free to walk in. If an artist has time, they’ll happily help whoever walks through the door.
Warhus currently employs three other artists, and while she is the sole owner, she runs her business collectively. “Since we’re all artists, it’s important that everyone gets to be part of the decision making.” They all contribute to Okie Dokie’s online presence, as well as the design of merchandise such as t-shirts; and all four artists collectively decide and plan flash events — a popular concept at Okie Dokie Tattoos.
For flash events, Warhus and team create a large collection of smaller tattoo designs, and these tattoos are available for a set price on that day. “Flash events are fun,” said Warhus. “People can try a small tattoo while also checking out our vibe and getting a feel for our shop.” Most impressive, at least 50% of the money raised at flash events is donated to a local charity. “Now that we’ve opened in our new location, we’re excited to learn more about the charity organizations that are our direct neighbors,” said Warhus.
The next flash event at Okie Dokie is scheduled for Valentine’s Day (Saturday, Feb. 14), so stay tuned for more information.
With 10 years of experience, Warhus calls tattooing her “forever career.” Prior to that, she was a freelance illustrator and hosted art shows in Chicago, Milwaukee and Madison. The loneliness and isolation she experienced working in a studio drew her to seek opportunities to work more directly with people. Already drawn to tattooing, it was a natural fit, and Warhus hasn’t looked back.
Now that Okie Dokie Tattoos has a home at a location that feels like kismet, the Northside community is invited to stop by and check it out.
