100 Women Project: Laura Cui, Co-Owner and Tattoo Artist, Fortune Teller Tattoo

Laura Cui, Owner and Tattoo Artist, Fortune Teller Tattoo

Laura Cui co-founded Fortune Teller Tattoo in Portland, Maine in 2019. She started tattooing after completing a double major in Art and Anthropology at The University of Vermont and then apprenticing with tattoo artist Ivan Hess (who later became one of her 2 business partners). She has since become known for her oyster tattoo, among other creative designs. (Check out The Portland Press Herald’s article about her business and famous tattoo. You can also check out #cluboyster on Instagram for a glimpse of this beautiful and simple design on hundreds of clients.)

From chatting with Laura, it was clear that she has a firm sense of the business world and manages to balance the concrete details of running a business while being a celebrated tattoo artist.

Below are some excerpts from Laura’s interview:

What are some tips that have helped you to be successful in business? Taking advantage of every possible learning opportunity, committing to projects and seeing them through, and asking for help when needed. Building relationships is another important part of running a business. There needs to be a certain level of trust, particularly between artist and client, as tattoos and the tattoo process can be very personal.

What advice would you give to a woman who is pursuing big goals and wanting to make a difference in the world? Be clear and realistic about your goals! Identify what you want and figure out how to get there. Be specific and take steps forward, even when it feels scary. Ask for advice for those who have completed similar goals and listen to what everyone says, but pick and choose the tidbits that will work best for you.

Check out Laura’s business at fortunetellertattoo.com or on Instagram @fortunetellerportland.

-Valerie

P.S. If you want to see how a business coach can help you launch and grow your business, sign up for a free 45-minute free coaching session.