THANKFUL!

I was driving home this morning after dropping my daughter off and was reflecting on this past 12 months. Wow!

So, just over a year ago I joined an online community for tattoo artists call Jackpot. We meet weekly to discuss all things involved in being a tattoo artist, from the business side to the actual craft of tattooing. The community consists of tattoo artists who’ve been tattooing anywhere from one year all the way up to 30 years. The community has been a catalyst for me personally. I’ve stood up this website, along with two others (IowaTattooClassic.com and ColorWorksTattoo.com). I’ve made my scheduling process easier, for my clients and myself, by putting tools in place to enable my clients to request a consultation and upload their references and express their ideas. I’ve learned more about taking my clients ideas, which they express in their consultation, and then taking those ideas and making a unique tattoo just for them. Amazing what happens when we actually shut our traps and actually listen to our clients!

Oh, and probably the biggest change for me this past year has been my move to Color Works. I’m not sure I can express my gratitude enough. This shop is nothing short of vibrant and energetic, with a mindset of growth and the focus solely on the clients; the way it should be. I love coming to “work” every day and hanging with my shop mates, being my goofy self, laughing far more than should be legally allowed, and the silly shenanigans! Mad props to Taylor for creating such an amazing environment to work in and great humans and artists to work alongside of.

I’ve had a lot of firsts in the past twelve months that I’m extremely grateful for. The people that I’ve met in Jackpot have been a huge factor in my growth. The countless 1:1 conversations I’ve had with seasoned practitioners has been an immense factor in my growth. From discussing painting, to marketing, to social media, to needle configurations; just ALL the things! I’ve met some amazing humans and artists that have become friends.

Lastly, to my clients. I cannot do this without YOU. I appreciate every single one of you for trusting me with your body art. When I made the move to Color Works, my biggest concern was that my clients wouldn’t follow me; that has proved to be absolutely wrong. Who’s cutting onions? Thank you ALL! I appreciate your continued support, kindness, and your friendship.

Grateful for it all, and I’m beyond excited for what 2025 has in store!