We recently connected with Tess Craig and have shared our conversation below.

Tess, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. One of the things we most admire about small businesses is their ability to diverge from the corporate/industry standard. Is there something that you or your brand do that differs from the industry standard? We’d love to hear about it as well as any stories you might have that illustrate how or why this difference matters.

Absolutely! One aspect where I diverge from the industry standard is in how I approach the tattoo experience. While many tattoo artists provide a comfortable environment, I strive to craft an experience that is tailored to the specific context and nuances of each tattoo interaction. Rather than simply providing the basic comforts such as snacks and tattoo breasks, I aim to understand the clients’s needs deeply and provide a response that is not only accommodating but also personalized on a human level. By prioritizing personalized interactions, I aim to not only meet but exceed the expectations of client, demonstrating that even in the realm of tattooing, there’s room for genuine connection and understanding.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Following a challenging apprenticeship, I initially felt disheartened, fearing I had missed my chance to pursue a career as a tattoo artist. Yet, refusing to be hindered by this setback, I persevered. With the guidance of compassionate tattoo artists, I honed my craft and envisioned my own business. Three years ago, I proudly established my private tattoo studio, Bloodstain Bettie Tattoos, which has flourished ever since.

My specialty lies in fine-line tattoos, spanning from miniature pieces to full limb coverage. Utilizing delicate needles, I create intricate designs reminiscent of fine artwork on the skin. Renowned for my ornate, nature-inspired creations, I take pride in collaborating with clients to materialize their tattoo aspirations. Each client’s trust in the enduring art of body modification is a privilege I deeply appreciate. I am fortunate to have garnered a loyal clientele, and I eagerly anticipate cultivating more meaningful connections in the future.

Setting myself apart, I offer a bespoke tattoo experience tailored to each individual. Through open communication and a welcoming atmosphere, I strive to ensure a comfortable and personalized journey for every client.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist revolves around the client experience. There’s an immense satisfaction in guiding someone through the journey of getting a tattoo, from initial consultation to the final artwork. Witnessing the joy and excitement on a client’s face as their vision comes to life on their skin is truly fulfilling.

Building a rapport with clients and earning their trust is incredibly gratifying. Every tattoo represents a deeply personal story or sentiment for the individual, and being entrusted with the task of immortalizing that on their body is a profound honor. The opportunity to collaborate with clients, understanding their desires and preferences, and translating that into a unique piece of art is what makes each tattooing session meaningful.

Moreover, seeing the impact of my work on clients’ lives is incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s boosting their confidence, commemorating a significant milestone, or simply bringing them joy, knowing that my art has a positive influence is immensely fulfilling. Creating a comfortable and welcoming environment where clients feel valued and respected is paramount to me, and seeing them leave my studio satisfied and happy is the ultimate reward.

In essence, the most rewarding part of being a tattoo artist is the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with clients, to be a part of their journey, and to leave a lasting impression through my artistry and the quality of their experience.

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

For me, the most reliable and valuable source of new clients has undoubtedly been the referrals from satisfied clients’ friends and family. There’s a unique trust that comes with a recommendation from someone close to you, and it speaks volumes about the quality of my work and the positive experiences they’ve had.

When a client recommends me to their inner circle, it’s not just a testament to my skill as a tattoo artist but also to the exceptional client experience I strive to provide. It’s incredibly rewarding to see my work resonate with clients to the point where they’re eager to share their positive experience with others.

These referrals not only bring in new clients but also often result in strong, long-lasting relationships. There’s a sense of camaraderie and mutual trust when someone comes to me based on the recommendation of a friend or family member. It creates a connection from the outset, making the tattooing experience even more meaningful for both parties.

Furthermore, referrals have a ripple effect. As these new clients have positive experiences and share their own recommendations with their networks, the cycle continues, leading to a steady stream of new clients over time.

In essence, the personal recommendations from clients’ friends and family have been the lifeblood of my business, not only driving growth but also fostering a sense of community and trust that is invaluable in this industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://bloodstainbettie.com/
• Instagram: tess_tattoos
• Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2nGoovSozXpW1eoV6