New tattoo studio opens in Dagenham

Hearts and Daggers tattoo studio in Dagenham which has recently opened (Image: Archant)

Hearts and Daggers, in Rainham Road South, opened to the public earlier this month, offering individual body artwork from a team of four artists.

Business owner Bradley Harris, who turned 22 on Sunday, moved into the shop in June, and has spent the past six months transforming the site into the borough’s newest ink-provider.

Although the area isn’t lacking in tattoo outlets, he insists his company’s customer care will separate it from their competitors.

“There are studios popping up left right and centre, but most close down within two years,” he said.

Hearts and Daggers tattoo studio in Dagenham which has recently opened (Image: Archant)

“Some people come to us having had a bad tattoo experience in the past.

“Or some customers could be about to have their first tattoo and they’re really, really nervous.

“We’re passionate about developing a reputable tattoo studio for people in the east of London.

“It’s good that we’re able to show people that not every tattoo studio is dodgy.

“I see customer care as the most important factor in running a business and that’s what will separates us out from others.”

Although still relatively new to the game, Bradley has seen his fair shares of wild and wacky creations, with everything from camels on people toes – get it? – to a pair of ‘w’s drawn onto someone’s buttocks.

“So it read ‘wow’ when they bent over,” he added.

Other tattoos have had slightly more serious back stories, with one customer recently marking her victory over cancer with a personal piece of body artwork.

And while ultimately Bradley hopes to launch other studios, his focus remains firmly on Dagenham for the time being.

“There could be room for expansion,” he explained.

“At the moment getting this one up and running is the most important thing.”

For more information visit facebook.com/heartsanddaggerstattoo.