In 1999, Jenna took a leap into the unknown, starting her first business venture at the age of 18. A chance encounter with a custom jeweler led her to explore the world of body piercing, and soon after, she embarked on a journey that would lead to the birth of Instinct Adornment in Kamloops.
Jenna set up a small studio, and what started in a modest space quickly grew as Jenna and her partner began to take their craft to new heights. They ventured to San Francisco to train at Fakir Intensives, the only accredited private post-secondary school for body piercing in North America at the time.
It was only a matter of time before Theo came into the picture. Initially helping out as a friend and supporter, Theo would eventually become a key part of the business, helping Jenna and her then business partner to develop Instinct's location on the 300-block of Victoria Street.
In 2012, he also began consulting in the industry, while Jenna expanded her role as his partner in life and business, and the couple started a family. Together, they made a collective decision to shift their lives so that their work schedules were more in line with raising a family, which meant that Theo would leave his position as a paramedic to join Instinct Adornment.
Theo’s transition was seamless, thanks to his deep understanding of health and safety, an experience that served as a bridge to his piercing work.
"I love it. The job as a paramedic was incredibly stressful, but piercing, this is something that I really enjoy," he shares.
Working alongside Jenna, Theo’s knowledge of anatomy, bedside manner, and patient care made him an ideal addition to the team. He brought not only his passion for helping others but also a unique set of skills that made the process of getting pierced more comfortable and reassuring for clients.
While piercing might seem like a relatively straightforward service, for the team at Instinct Adornment, it’s an art that requires precision and care. The concept of "bedside manner" takes on new meaning in this line of work. Theo explains, “You might come in feeling nervous, and it’s my job to guide you through that, to make sure that you’re comfortable. Even if something is going to hurt a little, it’s not going to harm you.”
Jenna adds that the true value of the work lies in the connection they build with clients. “It’s about giving them an experience that makes them fall in love with themselves just a little bit more," she says.
Whether it’s helping a young person through their first piercing or guiding an adult through a transformative moment, the impact of the work extends far beyond the body. It's about fostering confidence, self-expression, and trust.
The team at Instinct Adornment stands apart not only in their personal approach but also in their commitment to the highest standards of quality and safety. As members of the Association of Professional Piercers, they don't just meet the minimum industry requirements—they exceed them. Theo, who has taught at international piercing conferences, brings his own expertise to the business, constantly learning and sharing knowledge with peers.
But perhaps one of the most significant factors that makes Instinct Adornment stand out is their deep connection to the local community. Kamloops is where Jenna was born and raised, and the couple takes pride in being active supporters of local organizations and events. From sponsoring sports teams to supporting arts initiatives, Instinct Adornment is an integral part of Kamloops’ downtown vibe.
Working in Kamloops has allowed Jenna and Theo to foster a sense of camaraderie and connection, not just with clients but with other local business owners. The downtown community, with its tight-knit feel, provides a supportive atmosphere that has been especially appreciated in the face of challenges like the pandemic.
“The people who have chosen to support small and local businesses are magic,” Jenna says, acknowledging the crucial role the community has played in their success.
Instinct Adornment is more than just a piercing studio. It’s a place where people are empowered to express themselves, to feel good about their bodies, and to trust that their health and safety are in capable hands.
