Tom's Glasgow Mag #13

Halloween in Glasgow is Something Else.

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Opening Remarks

Hello and welcome! I hope you’re doing great.

Halloween is just around the corner. I was never a Halloween person but this year I’m really feeling it. Perhaps it’s because I met lots of people at my new job. It’s difficult to celebrate Halloween when no one around you is.

Despite my lack of experience dressing up for the Spooky Season, I’ve always considered Glasgow one of the most Halloween-flavoured cities. Especially the old tenements, built from yellow sandstone, give the place such a witchy vibe.

I’m probably not making any sense so let’s just get on with it.

Happy reading!

Tom

Fancy Some Halloween Ink? Visit Electric Artz Tattoos!

Credit: Electric Artz Tattoos

I got my first tattoo done at the age of 18. At that age, I was much more into the idea of getting a tattoo than the actual design itself. A few days after my milestone birthday, a small diamond appeared above my chest, inspired by a popular Rihanna song that topped the charts then. I actually consider it a good tattoo and definitely not anywhere in the “embarrassing” category. Since that time, I’ve paid for quite a few more tatts - some popular and often met with compliments, as well as some more eccentric ones, done solely for me. I’m good for now, though I can certainly see myself getting another one in the future.

If you’re thinking about embarking on your own tattoo journey, there is a place I'd like you to consider. Electric Artz Tattoos in Dennistoun combine that City Centre quality with an East End charm. It can feel difficult to make that first step and reach out to a tattoo shop. With them, you can expect the best customer service, sincere advice and a truly professional approach.

The shop’s team member Agnes was kind enough to answer a few of my questions over email. “I think what really sets us apart is customer service and client experience,” said Agnes. “We will go above and beyond to accommodate. We reply to messages and emails in a timely manner, we will get back to you if we promised, we will listen to your feedback and adjust the design and we will find a suitable time slot for your appointment, especially a touch up, that is not ages away, even if we're fully booked and busy.”

Credit: Electric Artz Tattoos. From the left: @danredicantattoos, @dreadfullrat.tattoos, @megantattooglasgow, @panda_tattoo_glasgow

My exchange with Agnes made it very clear to me that Electric Artz is a tattoo shop willing to go that extra mile for their customers. “We really care. That's why you can count on our honest opinion and professional advice. We will say it as it is, but with kindness of course,” Agnes explained. “If we think your tattoo concept won't look right, we'll get you on the right track. We will admit if we think we don't have the right artist available to execute something and we will not take it on. Similarly, some extra consideration will be given to tattoos in highly visible spots like hands, fingers, neck, and face (so-called job stoppers). We reserve the right to refuse if it's someone's first tattoo and/or they're very young. We always spend time gathering information about customer's motivation and knowledge of what to expect from these placements and explaining the risks.”

Credit: Electric Artz Tattoos

To celebrate Halloween, Electric Artz prepared a Get What You Get machine with some witchy designs in it. They’re also likely to run flash offers. Oh, and let’s not forget that they sell Christmas vouchers! Mariah is defrosting as we speak…

You can visit their Facebook page by clicking HERE. Alternatively, click HERE to visit the studio’s Instagram page.

Volunteering Shows the Power in Community

Credit: Volunteer Glasgow

Volunteer Glasgow is a Young Persons Befriending Service that focuses on connection and inclusion. The work they do is tremendously impactful. They match young people with volunteer befrienders and improve the quality of life for many. As their waiting lists grow, the organisation is keen to take on more volunteers.

That’s why I’d like to tell you about their upcoming Volunteering Fair. It will take place in the Parkhead Schoolhouse on Friday, the 27th of October. It will be a great opportunity to learn more about volunteering and how it can positively impact employability. Please click HERE to visit their website.

The Wee Retreat CIC: A Wellness Community Centre in Govanhill

Credit: The Wee Retreat

The Wee Retreat is an absolute gem for the community of Govanhill. This community interest company provides spaces and opportunities for people to express themselves, relax and practice mindfulness-based activities.

For instance, their team member Scott will run a Halloween Hullaballoo for kids on the 28th of October. The fun will include pumpkin carving, costume contests, dancing, games and much more. Tickets start at only £4!

The centre offers classes for people of all ages, backgrounds and identities. Another team member Elizabeth hosts yoga sessions on Monday mornings. Alternatively, The Wee Retreat’s founder Vicky runs mindfulness meditation sits on Monday nights at 6 PM. How great would it be to give it a go one day after work?

To see their full range of classes and activities, please click HERE.

The song of the issue is I Wonder by Madison Beer

This young American singer is mostly known among the Gen Z-ers. However, her songs tend to have that vintage feel that I absolutely adore, especially in pop music. She’s coming to Glasgow next year! I’ll probably be there…

That’s it for today, folks! See you in two weeks’ time. Have a fun Halloween!

All the best,

Tom