Making Every Mark Count: Cypress Swamp

Danny Federico

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As tattoos and piercings continue to grow in popularity and acceptance, the duo behind Cypress Swamp Tattoo & Piercing Studio hopes clients leave with more than fresh ink or a new piercing — they hope they leave feeling more like themselves.

Located at 405 11th St. S.W., Suite 102, in Live Oak, Cypress Swamp is co-owned by Jess Ward, the shop’s primary tattoo artist, and Carson Wiggins, who serves as the primary piercer while also creating tattoos. The studio officially opened in February of this year after the pair transformed a former hair salon into a welcoming space that reflects their personalities and artistic vision.

“We wanted to create a place where people feel safe,” Wiggins said. “The feedback we get all the time is that it feels comfortable, like you’re walking into your home.”

That atmosphere is intentional.

Every detail inside the studio, from the hand- painted artwork and décor to the plants, oddities and local artwork, was chosen to help clients feel at ease during what can be a vulnerable experience. Whether someone is getting their first piercing, commemorating a loved one with a memorial tattoo or simply adding another piece to a growing collection, Ward and Wiggins want the experience to be positive.

For Wiggins, that passion has been years in the making.

A Live Oak native, Wiggins said she developed a fascination with tattoos, piercings and alternative culture while growing up before moving to Gainesville for college. Although she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and nearly completed a master’s degree in higher education with plans to teach at the collegiate level, she never lost sight of her dream of working in the tattoo industry.

That opportunity finally came when she was offered a position as a professional piercer at Crooked Spines Tattoo & Piercing Studio in Lake City.

“I had pretty much given up on the dream,” Wiggins said. “Then they opened that door for me, and it completely changed my life.”

She now combines her background in psychology with her work in the studio, often spending as much time listening to clients as she does creating body art.

“People come in here during really important moments in their lives,” she said. “Sometimes it’s after a divorce. Sometimes it’s to remember someone they’ve lost. Sometimes it’s because they’re finally doing something for themselves.”

Ward, who has more than 20 years of tattooing experience, shares that same philosophy. The two first met through the Live Oak Makers Market in 2023, which Wiggins originated, and quickly realized they worked well together. When the opportunity arose to open their own studio, they jumped at it.

The pair spent weeks renovating the space before celebrating their grand opening with a ribbon-cutting through the Suwannee County Chamber of Commerce in March.

Since then, they’ve built a loyal customer base while striving to make everyone feel welcome.

The duo also reflected on changing attitudes toward tattoos.

While tattoos and piercings were once viewed with skepticism, Wiggins said she now sees clients of all ages embracing body art. Some are getting their very first tattoo well into their 70s or 80s, while others are celebrating milestones such as graduations, birthdays or new chapters in life.

“It’s people giving themselves permission to be themselves,” Wiggins said.

For those considering their first tattoo, Ward and Wiggins encourage people to take their time choosing both a design and an artist. They recommend researching artists whose portfolios match the style you're looking for, communicating openly about your ideas, and trusting your artist's expertise for small adjustments that will help a tattoo age well.

Preparation and aftercare are equally important. Clients should arrive clean, wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the tattoo area, and avoid drinking alcohol or taking other intoxicants before an appointment. Once the tattoo is complete, following aftercare instructions — including keeping it clean and moisturized, protecting it from the sun and avoiding pools, lakes and other bodies of water while it heals — is essential to achieving the best long- term results.

The two also encourage clients to remember that tattoos are an investment. As such, pricing often takes into account the time, skill, safety, experience and materials required to make the piece of art.

As National Tattoo Day approaches on Friday, July 17, Ward and Wiggins hope people who have been considering their first tattoo or piercing will take the leap after doing their research and finding an artist they trust.

Rather than viewing tattoos as rebellious, Ward and Wiggins see them as deeply personal expressions of identity, healing and creativity.

“There are no rules,” Ward said. “If it’s something you love and it means something to you, that’s what matters.”

Cypress Swamp Tattoo & Piercing Studio offers custom tattoos and professional body piercings by appointment and walk-ins when available. To learn more about pricing or to schedule an appointment, contact the studio at 386-287-6554, by email at [email protected] or online at CypressSwampTattoo.com. Wiggins can also be reached at [email protected] or 386-249-1065, and Ward can be contacted at [email protected].