Interviewee:
Brian Moeller (He/Him)
In your own words, tell us about your business, organization, or initiative.
Thistle Piercing brings the high-quality, professional piercing studio experience you’d expect in the city right to the heart of Salem. Founded by skilled piercers Brian Moeller and Joe Juliano, Thistle is dedicated to offering safe, precise, and beautifully executed piercings in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
At Thistle, we believe in the artistry of body piercing and are proud to use only the finest jewelry made from implant-grade materials and precious metals. Whether you’re looking for your first piercing, curating a unique ear stack, or upgrading your existing jewelry, we’re here to help you express yourself with confidence and style.
Tell us a bit about you and why you do what you do. Share your passions for your business, organization, or initiative.
Piercing has always been more than just a profession for us—it’s a passion and an art form. At Thistle Piercing, we love helping people express themselves through body art, whether it’s a subtle piece of jewelry or a bold statement. We’re passionate about creating a safe and empowering space where clients can trust that they’re in skilled hands and receive the highest level of care.
For us, piercing is about connection—connecting with clients to bring their visions to life and helping them feel confident in their own skin. We’re inspired by the trust our clients place in us and are committed to honoring that trust with every piercing we do.
What is the last thing you read, watched, or listened to that had an impact on you?
While the newest Nosferatu film certainly caught my attention, it’s the creativity sparked by Salem itself that’s been most impactful. Salem provides endless inspiration for me. The city’s rich history and its connection to themes of transformation, resilience, and mystery deeply influence my work. The thistle, which inspired my shop’s name, embodies these qualities—it’s a symbol of protection, strength, and magic, growing beautifully even in the harshest conditions.
This sense of magic and meaning inspires what I’m drawn to, from wild thistles and fall foliage to the memento moris on the local gravestones. I strive to channel these elements into my work, helping clients tell their stories through carefully curated jewelry and piercing artistry.
What’s the one thing people would be surprised to learn about you or your business?
People are often surprised by the level of customization we offer. From a wide array of jewelry options to tailored designs that perfectly fit a client’s style and anatomy, we love opening their eyes to the endless possibilities in piercing and body art.
We’re also proud of our connection to Salem’s creative community. Collaborating with local artists and drawing inspiration from the city’s rich history allows us to bring unique and meaningful designs to life, creating pieces that feel truly one-of-a-kind.
What is Creative Collective?
Creative Collective is a group of economic development strategists, small business supporters, activation specialists, and believers in the importance of the creative workforce. We foster growth, sustainability, and scalability for small businesses, creative thinkers, organizations, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Learn more and join Creative Collective at www.creativecollectivema.com/join
