For the last 5 years, Todd Parker has given his all and then some to Hart & Huntington, and his dedication is evident in the customer experiences he’s helped create.
What we’re doing here is really creating that environment that gives people a whole experience to remember. That’s what I love about it the most.
To see our clients’ faces light up. So I’m the manager, plumber, electrician, handyman, you name it. I’ll give them anything they need.
Todd was recruited by a former employee.
It’s a funny story. I used to live in Orlando years ago and worked for Vans. One of my employees was Trevor. One day, a gentleman came in and bought shoes for his twin daughters. It was Chris, H&H co-owner, who stole him from me. Trevor set me up with an interview and five years later, I’m still here.
Sounds like everything happened for a reason. When he took the job, Todd wasn’t new to the idea of tattoos, either.
My Uncle Jim was an old school biker. My dad and all his buddies were all bikers. Tattoos had a lot of meaning to them. I’ve always been passionate about the tattoo industry and I’ve been an advocate for tattoos in the workplace and in sports. They weren't a taboo thing, it was very much a part of my life, it always will be.
Todd most enjoys interacting with the H&H artists and being able to touch every facet of the business. And, the moments when clients see their tattoos for the first time.
I love meeting the guests and seeing their eyes light up when they look in the mirror for the first time, it never gets old.
But it’s not always as simple as it sounds.
There were many different aspects to this business. It’s about holding on for a wild ride.
The industry has changed quite a bit over the years. So has Todd’s personal taste.
The tattoo industry has evolved. When I first started, I was into New School Animated style. Then as I got deeper into the culture I became more into the Neo Traditional style. But I enjoy collecting from different artists. I just give them an idea and let them run with it.
He has a few now.
I have one on my upper calf of a pair of hockey gloves. I coach youth hockey and I’ve been playing my whole life. That one means something.
I also have some lettering on my knuckles, a motto. The meaning behind it is significant and I’ve stood by it through tough times.
And then there is one that changed his life.
Mark Fernandez just did one and I love it. It’s pretty significant. He did a scar coverup that changed my life. The scar is gone and I absolutely love it.
Todd also remembers some clients’ meaningful tattoo moments. One stands out from the rest.
A guy came in to get a tattoo for his brother who passed away. He was so nervous that he forgot to bring pictures and he was leaving the next morning for Europe. One of his family members had to fax them to us. We didn't start until 10pm and stayed until 6am. His mom even fell asleep in the chair. When it was finished, she woke up and cried. We helped them get through a tough time. It means a lot to me.
It’s moments like this that reaffirm that this career path with H&H was the best decision Todd ever made.
There was no smarter move if I wanted to be a part of the tattoo industry than to be a part of this company. It creates a great customer experience and just a lifestyle in general. I’ve had a few good experiences myself coming in here. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made in my life.
If you’re intimidated about getting a tattoo, please, allow Todd to erase that fear completely.
People think we’re mean and not wanting to do a first-time tattoo. I enjoy crushing that stigma. This is a family environment and it’s our job to give you an amazing experience. We encourage everyone to come in and be a part of it.
And he means that.
Come see us, whether you’re getting tattooed or not.
