Today we’d like to introduce you to Syd Christopher.
Hi Syd, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve been drawn to creative and visual arts for as long as I can remember, but my love for nails and nail art really took shape in middle school. I was constantly doing my nails to match my outfits or whatever colors and themes my artistic mood called for at the time. That curiosity naturally evolved into hand-painted designs with regular polish, and over the years—through high school and college—I began working with gel and acrylic products. After graduating college, I decided to pursue my nail license, and I haven’t looked back. I’ve now been doing nails for over eleven and a half years, and I love how creative the medium is—from glitter and foils to cartoon art and bold designs—while also getting the rare opportunity to connect one-on-one with clients. That personal connection has always been just as meaningful to me as the art itself. Recently, I’ve begun expanding my creative practice by learning tattooing, and it’s been incredibly fulfilling. Tattooing has reawakened a part of my creativity that’s rooted in making art purely for expression, rather than working within the limitations of a nail. As I continue to grow my tattoo clientele, I’m excited to collaborate on fun, meaningful projects and keep sharing memorable artistic moments with the people I work with.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The path hasn’t always been easy, but that’s something every artist can relate to. Choosing a creative career comes with real challenges, and it’s passion that keeps you pushing forward and finding ways to make it work. I believe strongly in staying positive and focusing on growth moments rather than setbacks. I remember the first time I completed a complex design and felt confident enough to put it on a client—it was a turning point that fueled me to work harder. Tattooing has brought that same motivation back into my life. Every piece I complete pushes me to sharpen my skills and create work that truly connects with people.
As you know, we’re big fans of Rhinestonedwithsyd. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I specialize in hand-drawn, highly creative nail art as well as tattooing, and I love being able to offer clients both semi-permanent and permanent forms of artistic expression. I think what sets me apart is not only that I provide both services, but that I do so in a private, one-on-one studio environment. I also bring a fine arts degree and over eleven years of client-facing experience in skin-adjacent services, which allows me to blend technical skill with a strong focus on comfort and trust. One of the things I’m most proud of right now is my private studio space, which I recently completed and fully prepared for tattoo appointments. I’m excited to continue sharing the energy of the studio with both my nail and tattoo clients and to watch it evolve into a space that reflects my creative vision more and more over time. Reach out via Instagram or Venue.ink @Rhinestonedwithsyd and we can book something fun!
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I’m originally from the South Bay in California, and since moving here I’ve learned that the only thing I truly miss is the salty sea air. Portland has so much to offer—from the incredible food scene, with favorites like Dos Hermanos Bakery, Potato Champion, The Observatory, La Catrina taco truck, and Meat Cheese Bread, to the stunning natural surroundings. I love simply driving through the city to take in the trees, the clouds, and the fresh air. I’ve also fallen in love with paddleboarding, which has become one of my favorite summer hobbies—Trillium Lake is a standout for me. On a more personal note, my dad grew up here and much of my family still lives in the area, so moving to Portland feels like something I’ve been excited about since I was a kid.
Pricing:
- I have flat rate tattoo flash available ✨
- Nails are $60 hour, with a $120 minimum💅🏼
- Tattooing is $120 an hour for custom pieces⛓️
Contact Info:
- Website: https://msha.ke/rhinestonedwithsyd
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/rhinestonedwithsyd
