This photo means everything to me.
It’s taken at the 23rd annual Association of Professional Piercers Conference here in Las Vegas, and I’m right in the middle of it—surrounded by some of the most inspiring people in this industry. Piercers, educators, and volunteers from all over the world, coming together to learn, grow, and push each other to do better.
This year is especially huge for me. For the first time, I’m teaching.
After years of attending, volunteering, and learning from so many of the folks in this photo, I finally get the chance to stand at the front of the room and contribute something back. It’s humbling. It’s surreal. And it’s exactly where I want to be.
I’m still volunteering, too—because the conference only works thanks to the folks behind the scenes who give their time and energy to keep it running. Early mornings, late nights, nonstop movement… and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Teaching at APP feels like a full-circle moment. I’m reminded why I love this work—not just the technical side, but the community, the education, the commitment to growth and safety and ethics. These people care, and I’m so proud to be among them.
To everyone who sits in on my class, thanks for showing up. And to everyone in this photo—thank you for holding me up, challenging me, and reminding me what’s possible.
This moment? I’ll carry it with me for a long, long time.
— Paul
APP Member Piercer • IPRICKU • Staten Island
📟 Text to schedule: 347-770-7653
🗓 Book online: book.ipricku.com