Earlier this month, I had the incredible honor of attending my first exclusive paramedical tattoo retreat in Houston, TX. This was no ordinary training—this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn directly from two of the most inspiring figures in the industry: my trainer of two years, Sherah Juarez, and the legendary Shay Danielle of Shay Danielle PMU in Calgary, Canada. Both women have shaped my journey as a paramedical tattoo artist, and being able to live, work, and learn alongside them for three immersive days was beyond anything I could have imagined.
Living, Learning, and Creating Together
The retreat brought together a group of passionate and talented artists, all committed to growing in the field of paramedical tattooing. We lived together in a shared space, which added a personal, familial touch to the experience. The days were packed with learning sessions, hands-on practice, and candid conversations about our industry.
From sunup to sundown, we absorbed advanced techniques, explored the nuances of different skin types and tones, and shared our experiences as professionals navigating this growing field. It was intense, but it was also deeply rewarding. Every moment was a chance to grow, whether it was through a demonstration by one of our mentors or an impromptu brainstorming session with fellow artists.
Seven New Certifications
Over the course of the retreat, I earned seven new certifications, each focused on pushing the boundaries of what paramedical tattooing can achieve. These included techniques for working with melanin-rich skin, advanced areola artistry, and even 3D belly button tattooing. Each certification represents a new layer of expertise I can bring to my clients and a step forward in my mission to make life-changing services more accessible to those who need them most.
Winning an Award
One of the most humbling and memorable moments of the retreat was being recognized for my work with an award. I’ve always believed in pouring my heart into every piece I create, and receiving this acknowledgment among such talented peers and mentors was deeply validating. It reminded me of why I started this journey—to help others feel whole and confident in their skin.
Building Community
Beyond the skills and certifications, one of the most meaningful takeaways was the connections I built with other professionals. Spending time with artists who share the same passion for paramedical tattooing was both inspiring and energizing. We exchanged ideas, encouraged one another, and celebrated our shared wins. These relationships will undoubtedly continue to shape my career, offering support and inspiration as I continue to grow.
Moving Forward
This retreat was more than just a training—it was a transformative experience that deepened my love for paramedical tattooing and renewed my commitment to this work. I returned home not only with new skills and certifications but also with a greater sense of purpose and belonging within this amazing community of artists.
To everyone who made this retreat possible—Sherah, Shay, my fellow attendees, and the organizers—thank you for an unforgettable experience. This is just the beginning, and I’m excited to see where these new skills and connections will take me and my business.
If you’re considering paramedical tattooing or have questions about the services I offer, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you feel like the best version of yourself, one step at a time.
Thank you for supporting my journey!
Comments