From World Stages to Local Shops: Why Tattooing Is About More Than Trophies.

Hey, it’s Nando.

I’ve had the privilege of tattooing around the world—literally. I’ve competed at some of the biggest conventions, including the Milan Tattoo Convention (if you know, you know). I even won an award there. Not to mention, I’ve tattooed some big names like Guy Fieri from Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives while traveling through Paris.

It was a high, man. The kind of experience that makes you feel like you’ve really made it. When I got back to Denver, my fellow artists were pumped. Everyone was buzzing, asking me to share stories about the trip, the convention, the chef. And for a moment, it felt like I was on top of the world.

But then, the doorbell rang. A client walked in—a regular walk-in. Just someone off the street, looking for a tattoo. And in that moment, it hit me: This person doesn’t care about the trophies, the trips, or the accolades. They just wanted a great tattoo and an experience they could remember. The lightbulb went off, and I realized all the trophies, the awards, and the travel—it was all about ME. But that client? They reminded me that tattooing isn’t about me at all. It’s about them.

The Shift That Changed Everything

That moment changed my entire approach to tattooing. I started focusing not on how to become the “best tattoo artist” but on how to create the best tattoo experience for the client. And let me tell you, when you start putting the client first, everything changes.

My businesses began to grow. Certified Tattoo Studios became not just a place where people get inked but a place where they feel heard, valued, and part of something bigger. Suddenly, we weren’t just creating tattoos; we were creating memories. And with that shift came thousands of satisfied clients and dozens of artists who have learned and grown alongside me.

Building More Than Just Tattoos

Now, I’m taking that growth and experience to a new level. With Certified Tattoo Suites, I want to give artists the freedom I’ve worked so hard to build for myself—but without the years of struggling to figure it all out. I know what it’s like to be an artist chasing success and to finally have that lightbulb moment where you realize it’s not just about the accolades—it’s about creating something meaningful.

We’re giving tattoo artists and piercers a space where they can work independently while having the resources, knowledge, and support to succeed. Whether it’s business coaching, industry connections, or real estate knowledge, I want artists to build something bigger and better for themselves. It’s about using my years of experience—both the wins and the lessons—to empower the next generation to reach heights that even I couldn’t imagine.

The Next Chapter Is About Us, Not Me

So, here’s the thing: The industry is changing. Tattooing isn’t just about who’s the best or who has the most trophies. It’s about connecting with clients, building businesses that matter, and growing as a community. The new generation of artists has more potential than ever, and with the right support, there’s no limit to how far we can go together.

I’m excited for what’s next, and I hope you are too. Because we’re just getting started.

It’s time to build the future of tattooing—together.

Nando Mondragon

Founder & Ceo

Certified Tattoo Studios