We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Vaughn Ara a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Vaughn , appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with a story that highlights an important way in which your brand diverges from the industry standard.

All of the products I produce from Tattoo Salve, to skincare and cosmetics, as well as fragrances are formulated to deliver on performance while using minimal and clean ingredients that are appropriate for even the most sensitive skin. While committing to a no waste practice, the Vaughn Ara brand produces everything in small batch and focuses on personalized customer service.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I was introduced to the tattoo industry going on 20 years ago and have maintained an interest not only in the art, but watching how the industry has grown and changed along the way. Part of that was seeing the products used during the process and with my background in herbalism I sought to replace silicon based products with a more natural alternative. My cosmetic formulating knowledge allowed me to carefully selected oil and herbs, which are in house infused, and paired them with the proper amount of waxes and butters to be mindful of not only function to the process on the skin, but also taking into consideration the process of tattooing allowing better saturation of pigments. The formulation also virtually eliminates the plasma phase of healing a tattoo and expedites healing using ingredients that actively help turn over damaged skin cells while supporting the health of skin underneath.

Fun fact, Tattoo Salve by Vaughn Ara is also an all heal salve that is used for cuts, scrapes, minor allergic reactions, and often used by those that have eczema.

As I briefly mentioned I have also been formulating cosmetics and that journey began about 14 years ago. At that time while interested in natural health, I began noticing the sheer number of ingredients in most products, and some not so desirable. I thought to myself, no wonder why so many people are having issues with things like acne, dermatitis, and other allergic reactions… and even more, how would someone know what is actually causing them harm with ingredient lists that read like novels (?). And that was the beginning of my dedication to producing clean, minimal ingredient cosmetics. And I am honored to have some of the best customers that have supported my brand through the entire process over the years.

And I guess that brings me to customer service. Something I have noticed is becoming a lost art, but not on my watch. I believe in appreciation for customers and clients and that the way to show that is throughout their entire experience. From communicating effectively, to offering them packaging that feels as if they are receiving a gift and a handwritten thank you.

Everything I do and create is a labor of love, most of all with intention to offer what can help the client or customer.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Resilience is perhaps the backbone of any Entrepreneur or small business owner … when starting our journey there is no handbook to prepare you, or magic ball to tell you the outcome. Everyday is a chance to learn and grow. And you become a champ at finding solutions and perseverance. If I could share one thing to other small business owners it would be that it’s ok to have your own timeline, don’t give up, your community needs you.

Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?

Currently I can say that I have zero debt and no loans in running my business. All growth has been thanks to the amazing customers and clients and those that support me and my businesses, as well as my ability to preform and serve as multiple functions within the business from web design, online sales, marketing, production, delivery, receiving, and accountant. Whew, but anyone that’s been here understands.

I have sought investors/partner though I have not found the right fit as of yet, but hopefully one day I will find one that believes in maintaining the integrity of all facets of the businesses I’ve created while helping get products into even more hands.

Contact Info:

• Website: vaughnara.com
• Instagram: @vaughnara33 @tattoosalvebyvaughnara @vaughnaraapothecary
• Facebook: Vaughn Ara