Alternative Shop

While the platform category you are using is "Tattoo Shops Near Me," the business in question, the Alternative Shop, located at 803 A Hardee Rd, Kinston, NC 28504, USA, primarily functions as a gift shop with the added service of professional piercings. It is important to note this distinction as the primary offerings differ from traditional tattoo studios. However, for local users in Kinston seeking unique gifts and professional piercing services in a calm environment, the Alternative Shop presents an interesting option to explore.

Based on the limited customer reviews available, the environment at the Alternative Shop is described as "calm" and "layed back," particularly in the context of receiving piercings. This suggests a relaxed and potentially less intimidating atmosphere for those who might feel anxious about getting pierced. This type of environment can be a significant draw for individuals seeking a more comfortable experience compared to a potentially busier or more intense tattoo studio. The positive mention of the environment specifically in relation to piercings suggests that the shop prioritizes creating a soothing space for this particular service.

The services offered at the Alternative Shop include professional body piercings and the sale of a "nice variety of cool items" suitable for gifts. One customer explicitly mentions having "multiple piercings done at this facility" with "all turned out awesome," indicating a high level of satisfaction with the piercing services provided. The piercer is not named, but the positive outcome of multiple piercings suggests competence and skill. The shop also functions as a gift shop, offering a curated selection of items that are described as "cool" and capable of making "really nice gifts for some people." This dual offering makes the Alternative Shop a potential destination for those seeking both personal body modifications and unique presents.

A key feature of the Alternative Shop appears to be the combination of professional piercing services with a retail space offering alternative and unique gift items. This blend allows customers to potentially browse for gifts before or after their piercing appointment, or to visit the shop solely for either purpose. The positive review regarding the outcome of multiple piercings highlights the quality of this particular service. The description of the gift items as "cool" and suitable for "some people" suggests a niche offering that may cater to individuals with specific tastes or preferences for alternative or unconventional items. This unique combination sets the Alternative Shop apart from traditional tattoo parlors or standard gift shops.

Regarding promotional information, one review contains a cautionary note about the accuracy of online operating hours. The customer states, "Say it is opened online just to go it's closed with a little note on the door but if you're close put it online." This suggests a potential issue with the shop's online presence accurately reflecting its actual opening hours. Local users planning to visit the Alternative Shop are advised to verify their operating hours, perhaps by calling the provided phone number, before making a trip to avoid disappointment. No specific promotional offers or discounts are mentioned in the available reviews.

The other review mentions that the "staff are nice," which contributes to a positive overall impression of the shop. Friendly and helpful staff can significantly enhance the customer experience, whether one is getting a piercing or browsing for gifts. This positive feedback regarding the staff suggests that visitors can expect a pleasant interaction during their time at the Alternative Shop.

In conclusion, the Alternative Shop in Kinston, NC, offers a unique combination of professional body piercing services in a calm and laid-back environment, along with a retail selection of "cool" and unique gift items. Customers have reported positive experiences with the piercings, noting the excellent results. The staff is also described as nice, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere. However, potential visitors should be aware of a reported discrepancy regarding online operating hours and are advised to verify the shop's opening times before visiting. While no specific promotions are mentioned, the dual offering of piercing services and unique gifts makes the Alternative Shop a noteworthy destination for local users in Kinston looking for something beyond the ordinary. For those who appreciate a calmer setting for piercings and enjoy browsing for alternative gift options, the Alternative Shop is worth considering, keeping in mind the need to confirm their operating hours.