We recently connected with Cara Seeley and have shared our conversation below.
Cara, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
I have always stood out as the odd one in the room. Growing up in a larger body taught me resilience and helped me develop a thick skin. Over time, I’ve come to understand that self-confidence is rooted in recognizing whose opinions truly matter—and the opinions of people who don’t truly know you are irrelevant. Embracing who you are is the ultimate act of self-love, and it creates an unshakable foundation for authentic connections. Those who genuinely care about you will never be deterred by your authenticity.
Living openly as a person of color, a woman, and someone in a bigger body brings its own challenges, especially on the internet. Platforms like TikTok can feel like a battleground, particularly in the comment sections, where negativity often comes from faceless accounts with no accountability. But even in the face of such hostility, I’ve learned that self-confidence means refusing to let the voices of faceless critics overshadow my worth.
There are still days when my confidence wavers, but I am proud to have grown into someone who stands firmly in their light, no matter what. The journey to self-confidence isn’t always easy, but it’s one worth taking because it allows you to live freely, authentically, and without compromise.
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?
From drawing on my arm in school and offering Sharpie tattoos to friends, to owning my own tattoo studio. Since 2020, I’ve been fortunate to work as a professionally licensed tattoo artist in Portland, specializing in fine-line black and gray tattoos from my private home studio. Tattoos have always been a passion of mine, and for years I dreamed of creating a space where people in my community could feel welcome and cared for.
As a fat person, a person of color, and a woman, I often struggled to find tattoo shops where I felt truly comfortable. Many lacked privacy, or the environment was tainted by commentary from artists that made the experience unpleasant. I wanted to change that. For me, offering more than just the tattoo itself is what sets a great experience apart. Simple things like engaging conversation, soothing music, snacks, and breaks can transform a tattoo session into something memorable—in a positive way. Tattoos are often deeply personal, and the process should never become a lasting reminder of discomfort or trauma.
I’ve worked tirelessly over the past few years to cultivate a studio that prioritizes inclusivity and calmness, ensuring that anyone, regardless of identity or disability, feels at ease. While my current space isn’t wheelchair accessible, I’m committed to making my next studio fully accessible to all, creating a space that reflects my values of community and care.
Beyond my work in tattooing, I’ve built a strong following on TikTok, which has connected me with countless amazing people and introduced new clients to my studio. While my content on TikTok rarely highlights my business, it offers people the chance to see me for who I am. Apart from my skills as an artist, I’ve come to realize that my most valuable offering is myself. I’ve never excelled in traditional academics, but my ability to connect with and communicate with people has always been my strength.
Looking ahead, my dream is to open a larger studio with other artists who share my philosophy about creating safe, welcoming tattoo experiences. I also hope to inspire service providers across industries—like hair stylists and nail techs—to reimagine their approach and center the client’s comfort. Together, we can redefine what it means to provide exceptional service.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
My ability to communicate effectively has been a cornerstone of my personal and professional success. While some might say I talk too much, I’ve always valued my ability to express ideas clearly and connect with others through conversation. In my work, long tattoo sessions are often less taxing for both me and my clients because of the flow of the conversation. I cherish the opportunity to learn more about my clients, share my own story, and build genuine connections.
Empathy is another essential part of my approach. Personal and social growth stems from understanding and supporting others. I firmly believe in the philosophy, “Treat people the way you want to be treated.” This principle guides every interaction I have, especially in my tattoo practice. Reflecting on my own experiences as a client in the industry has shown me what needed to change. Now, I make it a priority to treat every client with the care, respect, and consideration I wish I had received during my own tattoo sessions.
In the tattoo industry, while self-study can be valuable, formal training is essential to providing safe and legal services. I was fortunate enough to afford tattoo school in Oregon, a state where tattoo artists are required to complete formal education or apprenticeships to become licensed. Tattooing involves working closely with bodily fluids, so understanding proper safety protocols is crucial—not just for the artist but for the client as well. While I’ve learned a great deal through self-exploration and experience since finishing school, that foundation of formal education was critical to ensuring I can perform my work safely and responsibly.
By combining strong communication skills, empathy, and a commitment to safety, I strive to offer my clients not just a tattoo, but a positive and memorable experience.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
I am endlessly grateful to have been raised by my mom, Claire. Adopted at birth, I was fortunate to grow up with a mother who has given me an immeasurable amount of love and support. She taught me compassion, kindness, and perseverance—values that have shaped every part of who I am.
Claire has always stood by my side, encouraging me through every challenge and celebrating my every success. Not only did she pay for my tattoo school tuition, but she has been incredibly supportive of my career choice, despite not having any tattoos herself. She believed in me when I doubted myself, pushed me to finish high school when I didn’t think I could, and proudly displayed every drawing I’ve made since preschool.
What I cherish most about her is how she has always allowed me to be myself. She never tried to dull my shine or force me into a mold. Her unwavering belief in me has been a constant source of strength. While she may not be an artist, her praise for my work is more meaningful to me than any other recognition I’ve ever received.
My mom has been my rock—lifting me up when I’ve stumbled and celebrating every victory with me. Without her guidance and encouragement, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I owe so much of my journey and success to the values she instilled in me and the love she has always given unconditionally.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cara_tattoos?igsh=MWx3bzNqanRzZWdnMw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@caratheequeen?_t=8s0MesngpQJ&_r=1
Image Credits
I took all the photos! And friends took the photos of me 🙂
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
