J.E.
My daughter also had her ears pierced at Claire's boutique. I am a firm believer that you get procedures done where they are done most often. I am sure a pediatrician is great for prescribing medicine, stitches and medical things, but piercing is aesthetic. I want them to be even and centered. The antiseptic they sell is better than peroxide because it keeps the skin from cracking and getting infected.
Bring a stuffed animal to squish or you might squeeze your daughter's hand too hard. My daughter said I hurt her hand as much as the piercing.