We recently connected with Emily Zupan and have shared our conversation below.

Emily, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

For 13 years, I was a stay-at-home mom, and as my children grew older and started school, I felt the need to pursue something for myself. I had always dreamt of becoming a doctor, drawn to the fascinating world of skin, gore, and all things “gross.” However, the thought of spending another 10 to 15 years in school felt daunting, and I wanted to enjoy my life sooner. It was my husband who suggested that I consider becoming an aesthetician, so we explored different schools, and I decided to enroll. I quickly discovered my passion for skin care, enjoying everything from product knowledge to witnessing the transformative results that professional treatments can bring.

As I delved deeper into the field, I ventured into permanent makeup and fell head over heels in love with it. It became my favorite aspect of my work, and I started to wonder why I couldn’t apply tattooing techniques in this area as well. For over a year, I searched for apprenticeships, reaching out to countless people, but no one seemed interested in taking me on. Then my husband had a brilliant idea: he suggested I practice on him. So, I began tattooing him at home, despite my lack of experience. Eventually, I secured a year-long apprenticeship, which was a significant stepping stone in my journey.

After completing my apprenticeship, it took me another three to four months to find a shop that would hire me, but I finally became a professional tattoo artist. Tattooing brings me immense joy; while I also love my skincare work, if I had to choose one passion over the other, it would undoubtedly be tattooing. I’ve learned so much from the talented artists and mentors I’ve encountered in various shops, and my philosophy is to never stop learning. I recognize that there’s always more to discover, and I still feel like I have a long way to go in my tattooing journey.

Starting my tattoo career later in life, I often find myself surrounded by younger artists who are excelling rapidly in their first six to twelve months. However, I remind myself to focus on my own path and continue doing what I love. I’m incredibly grateful to my clients for their support and to the industry for embracing me. My mentors and coworkers have played a crucial role in shaping who I am today, and I can’t thank them enough.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’ve been a professional tattoo artist for the past 3.5 years. In addition to that, I hold licenses as a Master Esthetician and Instructor. I am a certified permanent makeup artist as well with six years of experience in the skincare industry. I’m particularly passionate about all things related to skin, skincare, and skincare products—I truly geek out over them!
My previous work in customer service and a licensed in skincare professional with in depth knowledge of skin; I believe sets me apart from other tattoo artists.

While tattooing is my primary passion, I also love offering skincare appointments and helping others with their skin needs. I’m married and a proud mother of two, along with a variety of pets. I have many interests, but reading and learning stand out as two of my favorites.

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

Word of mouth has been the best for me but I would love to much better at social media and gain more that way.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

I had to unlearn a lot of self-doubt and work on building my confidence. When I first began tattooing, I came in with a background in skin and permanent cosmetics, but I was new to the art of tattooing itself. As I started to create tattoos that turned out well, I experienced a much-needed boost in confidence. However, when I began my apprenticeship and realized just how much I didn’t know, it was devastating. That experience led me to struggle with doubt and a lack of confidence, feelings that I still grapple with today.

Imposter syndrome is a very real challenge in this industry, and overcoming it is no easy feat. I constantly remind myself to focus on my own journey and resist the urge to compare myself to others. It’s an ongoing struggle, but I strive to stay committed to my growth and development as an artist.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.emzinkandskincare.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emz_ink
• Facebook: Emily-Emz Ink

Image Credits

Emily Zupan