Inspiring Conversations with Amanda Belle of Belle Body Piercings

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Belle.

Hi Amanda, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve always enjoyed body art and modification. I came into body piercing when I doubted my career. I had been working as a surgical assistant, struggling to make ends meet and ultimately being miserable every day because I had to work side jobs and never spent time with my family. I started piercing my ears in elementary school. My mother was so good at allowing us to be free but with restrictions and awareness of safety. She even let me do her second lobes because I loved it so much and harassed her. Lol, I had the most decorated earlobes in middle school! I used to visit Caribbean Connection regularly to get new jewelry, the occasional piercing, and Friday the 13th tattoos ( I try to get a new one every time ). So when I saw the post about hiring a new piercer, I jumped at the chance and messaged them! It was like I always belonged there. The crew is supportive and has helped me become the piercer I am today. I keep pushing to be better and learn from my awesome peers, who have been amazingly kind and helpful on this journey. I love every day that I get to make someone happy with their bodies. It’s empowering for so many people. When that beautiful piece of jewelry gets placed and my client’s eyes light up, there’s nothing better.

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but nothing good is easy. My apprenticeship was not the best, and I’ve been pushing to learn what was missed. I recently attended the Association of Professional Piercers (APP) conference for the first time, which was life-changing. Being among the industry’s most amazing, talented, and stunning body artists, seeing the people you look up to in person. I was in awe! I learned so much that week, and it affirmed that the scary decision to leave what I knew and start over again at 36 years old was right for me.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am Amanda Belle of Belle Body Piercings, operating out of Caribbean Connection in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. I am a black female body piercer, making me a bit of a unicorn. I’ve had people walk in and tell me how happy they are to get a service done by someone that looks like them. I know that feeling. I am proud to bring that comfort and peace to such a personal experience.

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
We spend a third of our lives working. Why would I spend all of that time unhappy? The pandemic has pushed me to come out of my comfort zone and do the things I’ve always been too afraid to do.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @bellebodypiercings