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

Alright, Annabella thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

Success, to me, is about passion, courage, and embracing vulnerability. It’s not about avoiding failure but learning to see it as a stepping stone. Passion gives you purpose, vulnerability keeps you authentic, and facing failure head-on builds resilience. Facing failure is the hardest part, but it’s also where the greatest lessons live. Every misstep or setback is a chance to refine your skills and prove to yourself just how much you’re capable of. Success is rarely linear, it’s often messy, unpredictable, and full of challenges. But if you have the courage to embrace those challenges and keep moving forward, you’ll find that each stumble makes you stronger, and each risk brings you closer to the person you’re meant to be. Ultimately, success isn’t a destination. It’s a journey of continually showing up for yourself and the things you care about.

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 started my journey with chalkboard art and calligraphy for a local business, in Acworth, which sparked a deeper passion for creating meaningful work. A close friend in the tattoo industry saw my potential and offered me an apprenticeship, opening the door to a whole new form of expression. From there, I immersed myself in learning the craft enduring long hours, refining techniques, and embracing the vulnerability that comes with creating art for others.

Now, as a tattoo artist, I specialize in black and gray illustrative designs, fine lines, and patchwork sleeves. My work often incorporates florals, animals, and aesthetic elements, creating pieces that feel sentimental and timeless. What truly drives me is the connection I share with my clients. Every tattoo is a collaboration, a moment of trust, and a chance to create something that holds personal meaning. What I feel sets me apart is my passion in providing a space where my clients feel comfortable knowing that their design is crafted with intention and care. For me, tattooing is more than just creating art, it’s about building relationships and leaving behind lasting stories on the skin. I am proud of the special experiences that I have gotten to provide for my clients.

I want people to know that I am open to all ideas and look forward to collaborating on custom tattoos perfectly curated for you!

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

The best source of new clients for me has undoubtedly been word of mouth and referrals. There’s nothing more rewarding than having someone recommend my work to their friends, family, or colleagues. It means a lot knowing that clients trust me enough to share their good experience with others and my artwork that I did for them. These personal connections not only bring in new clients but also help create a supportive community where my work truly resonates.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

Funding my business required patience and dedication to achieve my goal of becoming a full time tattoo artist. I worked two jobs, pouring my time and energy into saving every dollar I could. It was a challenging balance juggling responsibilities while keeping my passion for art alive, but I never lost sight of my dream. Every late shift and early morning was a step closer to building the foundation I needed. I continued working two jobs even after beginning my business and taking clients to provide money for supplies and booth rent. However, at a certain point you have to take a leap of faith, I woke up one day and realized that I just need to commit to my passion. You could spend your whole life preparing if you do not bet on yourself.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rougecowboyink/

Image Credits

Rougecowboyink / Annabella Tessier