Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shadi Eccles. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Shadi, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’ve love to hear an interesting investment story – what was one of the best or worst investments you’ve made? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

The best investment I have made over the years- is time for myself. Working on myself in many different ways allowed me to show up and be more present for my artwork and my clients. I worked hard and became appointment only, now each client gets my full undivided attention between their ideas, design, and well being during the appointment.

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

I grew interest in the industry because of my dad Che, and my mentor Jack- they are OG tattoo artists in the DFW area. I have always been an artist, and that was something that we have shared together. Whether it be painting, watching them tattoo, or meeting and hanging out with all types of people at conventions it drew me closer to the craft. Seeing how even the smallest tattoo changed someone’s life I knew it would be really fulfilling someday.

I started my apprenticeship fresh out of high school and I wouldn’t change a thing. It allowed me to be strong yet flexible enough to adjust and learn as much as I could to set me up for where I am now.

I am most proud of the bond I have created with my friends in the industry, and my clients. There’s nothing like the feeling of Art bringing people closer together in many ways. I am very grateful for the people I have met along the way.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy I have found for growing my clientele would be experience and word of mouth. I am not a very social person, and I find social media very hard to keep up with. Being appointment only allows me to really be able to give my clients the best experience possible, and take my time with each piece.

I try to make sure they are as comfortable as possible during the process, and leaving as confident as they can be with their new piece of art. I have a lot of repeat clients, and even tattooed generations of families, just from creating a safe and comfortable space to work in.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

During my apprenticeship I read a very helpful book called Reinventing the Tattoo by Guy Aitchison. It really helped break down the art of tattooing into artists terms by giving helpful references and videos explaining anything and everything from the history of tattooing, to thinking of how different needles are like different paint brushes, to design flow/fit and how to make it look like it was always supposed to be there.

Video seminars and webinars are also very helpful to see how the best of the best, or artists you look up to do things. They might do something different that clicks better for you, and helps you grow to be a better artist.

Contact Info:

• Website: Shadijtattoos.com
• Instagram: Shadijtattoos
• Facebook: Shadi J Tattoos
• Other: Email at [email protected]

Image Credits
Che Eccles of Godfather Ink, Jack Terrell of Daddy Jacks Body Art Studio, Mario Padilla of Saint Cecilia’s Art Studio