We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Annabella Tessier a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Annabella, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome was something I didn’t even realize I was carrying at first. It crept in quietly through self doubt, comparison, and the pressure to be perfect. I used to look at artists I admired and wonder if I was really cut out for this, if I was good enough, or if I belonged in the same room. What helped me overcome that mindset wasn’t one big moment, but a collection of small ones. Each time a client left my chair happy when I saw my progress in my work and every time I chose to show up even when I felt unsure.
I reminded myself constantly that growth doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being present, open, and consistent. The truth is, there will always be someone ahead of you, but that doesn’t take away from the space you’re meant to fill. I started seeing myself through the eyes of the people who believed in me. My clients, my mentors, my friends. And eventually, I started believing it too. Overcoming imposter syndrome meant showing compassion to myself, letting my art speak for me, and trusting that I am exactly where I’m supposed to be.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m a tattoo artist and the owner of my own private studio, The Scarlet Dagger. Opening my own space has been one of the most personal and meaningful chapters of my journey so far. I specialize in black and gray illustrative tattoos, fine lines, detailed shading, and designs that lean into sentimentality and softness. I love creating florals, nostalgic imagery, animals, and quiet still-life pieces that hold a certain feeling. My goal has always been to create art that evokes emotion and speaks to something deeper.
What excites me most about this work is the connection it builds. Tattooing is such an intimate exchange. Someone is trusting me to put something permanent on their body, often tied to memory, healing, or identity. I don’t take that lightly. It’s an honor every single time. What I think sets my brand apart is the level of care I put into the entire experience. From the first message to the finished piece, I want people to feel seen and understood. It’s not just about the tattoo. It’s about creating a safe, beautiful space where people can express themselves and walk away feeling a little more whole.
Right now, my focus is on building the studio into a space that feels like home for both myself and my clients. Every detail of The Scarlet Dagger was chosen with intention. I spent late nights rearranging furniture, hanging art, and bringing the vision to life piece by piece. I wanted it to feel warm, calm, and safe the moment someone walks through the door. Not just another tattoo shop, but a creative sanctuary. Getting a perfect score on the health inspection felt like such a validating moment. All the effort, the care, the double checking, it was worth it. This space is more than just where I work. It’s an extension of who I am and what I want people to experience when they sit in my chair.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, the three most important things that shaped my journey were patience, self-discipline, and adaptability. Patience taught me how to slow down, be intentional, and understand that growth isn’t always linear. There were moments I wanted to rush the process, but learning to trust the timing of my journey made all the difference.
Self-discipline kept me going on the days when motivation wasn’t there. It meant staying up late to sketch, practicing the same techniques over and over, and holding myself accountable even when no one was watching. It helped me push through self-doubt and show up for my art every day, even when it was hard.
Adaptability helped me navigate every shift, whether it was changing studios, learning new techniques, or balancing my schedule between jobs. Things rarely go as planned in this industry, so learning to adjust without losing sight of your purpose is essential. My advice for anyone starting out is to stay curious, stay teachable, and commit to your growth every step of the way.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is someone who values the process as much as the final piece. They come in with an open mind, a love for thoughtful art, and trust in the creative exchange we’re about to share. I love working with people who have a clear sense of meaning or emotion they want to express, even if they’re not sure exactly how to visualize it yet. That’s where the collaboration begins.
Someone who’s communicative, kind, and respectful of boundaries makes all the difference. I really appreciate when clients are patient and present, and when they’re just as excited about the experience as they are about the outcome. Whether they’re getting something deeply personal or simply a design that makes them feel joy, I want them to feel comfortable, seen, and supported every step of the way.
It’s not about being perfect or having all the right words. It’s about being real. The ideal client trusts the flow of the session, allows space for creativity, and values the connection we build through the art.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rougecowboyink/
Image Credits
Annabella Tessier / Rougecowboyink
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