Photo: Good omens at 3 Ravens

Businesses across all industries have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the local tattoo industry of Athens, Georgia, is no different. At 3 Ravens Tattoo & Piercing in downtown Athens, business is going well, despite the ongoing pandemic.

Co-owner Jim Mellor said business at 3 Ravens picked up quickly when the studio reopened after its brief closure in the spring, as clients were excited to get new ink. 3 Ravens, like other studios, has had to make operational changes in order to allow clients back in. Beyond face masks and social distancing, 3 Ravens doesn’t allow clients to bring guests inside with them to their appointment, and walk-in appointments are no longer accepted.

By eliminating walk-in business, Mellor said 3 Ravens has eliminated about half of its usual business, but the studio is still faring better than he expected.

Cleaning products used during the tattooing process are pictured at 3 Ravens Tattoo & Piercing in downtown Athens, Georgia on October 12, 2020. 3 Ravens follows strict guidelines to protect against COVID-19 and keep studio space sanitary. (Photo/Katie Fugett, katherine.fugett@gmail.com)

Owner Jim Mellor’s workspace at 3 Ravens Tattoo & Piercing in downtown Athens, Georgia is pictured on October 12, 2020. Large windows line the front of the building along Clayton Street and fill the studio’s interior with natural light. (Photo/Katie Fugett, katherine.fugett@gmail.com)

Owner Jim Mellor’s workspace at 3 Ravens Tattoo & Piercing in downtown Athens, Georgia is pictured on Oct. 12, 2020. In addition to fun wall decor throughout the studio’s interior, posted signage details COVID-19 safety guidelines. (Photo/Katie Fugett, katherine.fugett@gmail.com)

The front reception desk of 3 Ravens Tattoo & Piercing in downtown Athens, Georgia is pictured on October 12, 2020. 3 Ravens posted guidelines related to COVID-19 safety throughout the interior and exterior of the studio. (Photo/Katie Fugett, katherine.fugett@gmail.com)

3 Ravens Tattoo & Piercing in downtown Athens, Georgia, has posted signage promoting social distancing and mask-wearing, such as this floor decal found just inside the studio’s front door. Pictured, a journalist stands on October 12, 2020. (Photo/Katie Fugett, katherine.fugett@gmail.com)

Jim Mellor poses for a portrait outside 3 Ravens Tattoo & Piercing in downtown Athens, Georgia, on October 12, 2020. Mellor and his wife, Devon, founded 3 Ravens in 2018. (Photo/Katie Fugett, katherine.fugett@gmail.com)