02/20/2025
Hey everyone, we are finally able to re-introduce our studio! After a wacky few years, we’re officially rebranding—Wildwood Tattoo Parlour is now Sickle & Sage Tattoo Studio!
Why the change?
Without diving into personal drama, we got some legal advice that nudged us toward a fresh start (yes, we’re talking about our stalker). With the negative feelings surrounding that ongoing trauma we decided to shed the name to help move forward with our mental health.
This shop was never *just* ours. It was crafted with our favorite humans—friends who feel like family. Wildwood was Kristopher and I, and Mika, and Jill, Jessica, and every manager and receptionist we had. It didn’t feel right to go on without them.
Kristopher and I tried to make the best of being unable to find a studio by earning a concept art diploma. We are both now trained and able to produce higher quality art and design, and have portfolios specific for the movie and video game industry. We’ve also had time to reflect on branding, our community values, and what it means to run a business with more heart. We are embracing our personal, casual style to contrast the AI generated, corporate speech that we see too often online.
So why did we finally, after months of contemplation, settle on this name?
A sickle is a handheld blade for gathering herbs and flowers. We are ready to focus on harvesting the labor we’ve poured into this journey. Small scale farmers work hard, cultivate growth, and feed their people— that’s the energy we try to bring. You may also know the sickle for its symbolism of collectivism, and reminding us that we do have the means to change and unite in the midst of this challenging world.
Our choice of sage represents our sacred location, belonging to the Secwépemc people who’ve cared for it long before us. Sage is a sacred plant used to heal and cleanse—something we want to focus on during every tattoo and conversation here. Plus, if you’ve ever chatted with us, you know we’re equal parts “fun facts”, deep-dive philosophy and supportive counselling. I am also embracing my Métis family and purpose, in joining the local (and my own) indigenous culture using the methods and privilege of my settler ancestors.
Everything else that matters is staying the same. The same passion, the same vibes, and the same original founders. Shoutout to our amazing apprentice, cinnamon roll gal Tiffany who has brought so much light and healing to us. We are grateful for our cozy, safe studio to create beautiful art in. We will continue to offer genuine friendship and connection with each client. We’re still the studio you remember with a renewed purpose and an exciting future.
Thank You, Wildwood 🌲💔
This isn’t goodbye. It’s a *THANK YOU* for the lessons, the late nights, and the family we built under that name. But growth means knowing when to let go— and I think we’re finally ready.
Come grow with us. Let’s heal, create, and carve something beautiful into this next chapter. We want to build it together.
Take care and thank you for your ongoing support and love!
Sincerely,
- Rachelle and the Sickle & Sage Comrades
P.S. the new social media pages will be linked or you can search for them . They are barren wastelands now, but we hope you will like and follow to rebuild our audience. Our website is sickleandsage.com! See you there!
