Meet Cecilia Marie

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cecilia Marie. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Cecilia below.

Cecilia, we are so deeply grateful to you for opening up about your journey with mental health in the hops that it can help someone who might be going through something similar. Can you talk to us about your mental health journey and how you overcame or persisted despite any issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.

Doing tattoos and being part of the tattoo journey is what really saved me when it came to overcoming my struggles with mental health. Art has always been my therapy, and tattooing provides me with a creative outlet that helps me process my own emotions and struggles. The ability to connect with others through the tattoo process is incredibly healing for me. It allows me to give back to my community, particularly veterans, by offering tattoos that help others on their own healing journeys. I feel truly blessed to be able to use my art to not only help others express themselves but also support mental health in a meaningful way.

I’ve faced mental health challenges in my life, particularly as a combat veteran, and I’ve learned that healing is a journey that requires support, self-care, and community. Throughout my experiences, I’ve leaned on the strength of my passion for art and the deep healing power I believe tattoos can provide. When I started The Vintage Cauldron with my Business Partner, I knew I wanted to create a space that supported not only creativity but also emotional well-being. I donate tattoos to veterans every month as part of my mission to help others who are navigating their own mental health struggles. It’s important for me to offer a space where people can come to heal and feel supported, whether through the art of tattooing or the resources we provide. At the same time, I’m constantly working on maintaining my own mental health, ensuring that I take time for myself, seek support when needed, and focus on growth. It’s a balance, but I continue to persist through each challenge with the understanding that healing, both for myself and for others, is possible.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

As Co-owner of The Vintage Cauldron, a tattoo parlor and boutique that focuses on the healing aspects of tattoos in a supportive, inclusive environment, my goal is to provide a space where clients feel comfortable and understood, and where tattooing serves as a form of therapy. I’m passionate about using art as a healing tool—both for myself and others—and I truly believe in the power of tattoos to help people express their personal stories and emotional journeys.

What excites me most is the opportunity to connect with others through my art. Being part of their tattoo journey, whether it’s a meaningful memorial or a piece of self-expression, is incredibly fulfilling. I love giving back to my community, especially veterans, by offering tattoos and mental health resources.

Something special about my brand is the sense of belonging we foster at The Vintage Cauldron. It’s not just about getting a tattoo; it’s about creating an experience that promotes healing and understanding. I also collaborate with local artists and small businesses, like ‘Candles from the Crypt,’ ‘Grim Obsession,’ and many more, to bring unique and witchy products into the space.

Looking ahead, I’m continuing to expand and offer even more mental health resources, and I plan to host events and workshops focused on healing, art, and community building. There’s always something new on the horizon, and I’m excited to continue growing and supporting those around me.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, I believe the three most impactful qualities in my journey have been resilience, creativity, and the ability to build community.
1. Resilience: Overcoming the mental and emotional challenges in life, especially as a combat veteran, taught me to never give up. Tattooing became my therapy and helped me grow stronger. Resilience is about pushing through difficult times and using those experiences to fuel your growth. My advice to those starting out is to embrace failure and setbacks as learning opportunities. Every challenge is a chance to build resilience, so keep going.
2. Creativity: My passion for art and tattooing has been central to my journey. The creative process is where I find my peace and healing, and it’s how I connect with others. For those early in their journey, my advice is to never stop creating. Let your passion drive you, and don’t be afraid to explore new mediums, ideas, and styles. Creativity is something that can be nurtured and developed, so always make time for it.
3. Building Community: When I started The Vintage Cauldron, I knew I wanted to create a space of support and connection. Building a community that values shared experiences and mutual respect has been key to my success. If you’re just starting out, seek out like-minded people and build relationships. Surround yourself with those who inspire and support you, and remember that community is about giving as much as it is about receiving.

For those early in their journey, my advice is to focus on these qualities, continue to evolve, and trust that every step forward, no matter how small, is progress.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

When I feel overwhelmed, I remind myself to slow down and take things one step at a time. As someone who’s constantly juggling multiple responsibilities—running my tattoo parlor, advocating for mental health, and working with my community—it’s easy to get caught up in the pressure. I’ve learned to prioritize self-care and listen to my body and mind when they need rest.

Some of the strategies that help me when I’m feeling overwhelmed include:
1. Taking breaks: I step away from work for a few minutes, whether it’s for a walk, breathing exercises, or just a quiet moment. These brief moments of stillness help me reset and regain perspective.
2. Staying organized: I keep a detailed schedule, breaking down tasks into manageable chunks. This helps me stay focused and ensures I’m not overwhelmed by a never-ending to-do list.
3. Creative expression: Art has always been my therapy, so when I feel overwhelmed, I turn to my craft—whether it’s tattooing or painting. Doing something creative helps me release stress and reconnect with my purpose.
4. Seeking support: I rely on my community, both personal and professional. Talking with loved ones or fellow artists about how I’m feeling can offer fresh perspectives and ease the burden.

My advice for others facing overwhelm is to acknowledge that it’s okay to feel this way. Take time to step back, breathe, and prioritize what truly matters. It’s also important to remember that you don’t have to do everything at once—sometimes the most effective thing is to take a break and come back refreshed.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.ceciliamarietattoos.com Www.vintagecauldron.com
• Instagram: Ceciliamarietattoos

Image Credits

Electricparkfilms
Ad Council
Joaodoesthings
Electricsleepimages