Daily Inspiration: Meet Allie Cohen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Allie Cohen.

Hi Allie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Ever since I was 13 standing in line at the grocery store with my mom, I saw a body mod magazine. I begged her to get it for me. I was fascinated with extreme body modifications, from the lizardman (Erik Sprague), Rolf Buchholz and María José Cristerna Méndez known as the vampire woman. I was so enamored with body modifications and piercings I knew it was something I always wanted to do. In 2019 I was offered a piercing apprenticeship, shortly before the pandemic. During the pandemic when all of the shops closed, I actually was cleaning houses to make it by. I ended up graduating my apprenticeship at the end of 2020 after having my son in January. I was working at another shop when my current boss offered a job to me. I was kind of taken back because I never thought anyone would ever ask *me* to work for them, and I admired all of the piercers working there. Imposter syndrome is real. I’ve been at Luminous since 2023, I plan on retiring here lol.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It was definitely really hard. Being a single mom of two, going through an apprenticeship AND a pandemic at the same time? It was super tough. But I kept telling myself that it would all be worth it, and it definitely has been.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a professional piercer and a member of the association of professional piercers. I’ve been piercing professionally since 2020, and I’ve been an APP member since 2021. I don’t necessarily specialize in anything piercing related particularly, but my favorite piercings to perform are first piercing experiences, gender affirming piercings, and reclaiming your body back. I love celebrating small and big moments with my clients. The thing I’m most proud of is being able to provide a safe space for them. Not only with quality jewelry, but a zero judgement zone. I think what really sets me apart from others is making sure my clients comfortability comes first. They are trusting you with their body and it’s your job to make sure they’re comfortable during that process.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Consent and communication are huge parts of body piercing. Without those, you’re taking away bodily autonomy. Which is why I refuse to pierce a child without their consent. I have a three no rule, after three no’s, we’ll do it a different day and *no one* will be mad at them. I always talk directly to the child that’s in my chair. I want them to be heard and seen. Let the big feelings out if you have to. Their first piercing experience is so important to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.luminouspiercing.com/
• Instagram: @alliecohenxo