Love Stories: Ninth Wave
Today's LOVE STORIES blog features husband and wife team Lauren and Dave Shoemaker of Ninth Wave, a custom tattoo studio and storefront that just opened in downtown Asbury Park that offers a carefully curated selection of handmade objects, created by local and international artists.
I first fell in love with the work of Lauren and Dave when they sold gorgeous handmade ceramics as Norse Collective at the Asbury Park Bazaar a couple of years ago (when I bought my first piece!). So I was very excited when I heard they were opening up their own brick and mortar store, joining a host of eclectic and creative shops and restaurants on Bangs Ave in Asbury Park.
Lauren is an art teacher and Dave's tattoo work is out of this world (he's been tattooing for nearly 30 years - and did I mention he builds boats?) Their vision is to bring together beautiful handmade crafts of various genres, ranging from ceramics and jewelry, to many things in between - so be sure to visit their store at 725 Bangs Ave and check them out at the Valentine's Market this Sunday, Feb. 11th in the Grand Arcade of Convention Hall!
When did you two meet and how did you get together?
When Dave and I met depends on who you ask, haha.
Formally we were introduced at a mutual friend's wedding. I was photographing the event and he was an invited guest. A few days later, Dave messaged and friend requested me on Myspace. Fast forward a couple weeks and we had our first date at the American Folk Art Museum.
What was it like deciding to start your business together?
Ninth Wave was always a dream for Dave. Working together to make that dream become a reality has had many hurdles that, at times, challenged us. That said, we've been so fortunate to have the support of our friends and family to help Ninth Wave come to fruition. Our goal has always been to manifest a positive and inspiring space where we could be creative and we feel we've managed to cultivate it.
What is your favorite part about working with your partner?
Our favorite part about working together is taking part in just that, creative collaboration. For example, the majority of Norse Collective vases are wheel thrown by Dave, and I will often times hand carve or paint onto each one. Dave enjoys seeing what patterns I choose to place on the forms he's created and I'm equally inspired by the forms he creates. We've always enjoyed the process, having two sets of eyes and hands on a singular piece of artwork and reflecting together on our finished product.
What will you be offering at the Valentine's Market?
At this years Valentine's Day Market, Dave and I will be featuring handmade ceramics and jewelry that are available at our brick and mortar shop, Ninth Wave. Featured artists will include but not be limited to; MQuan, Norse Collective, Lauren Wolf and Sarah Swell.