SIERRA DAKOTA-LEIGH

I’m Sierra Dakota-Leigh, the face of Browtique & Ink Studio. I’ve been tattooing for going on 12 years now and am most known for my fineline tattoos and permanent makeup brows. I own my own private oasis of a studio in the heart of Clearwater, Florida. I love what I do every day, whether bringing art to life for the beauty behind the design, helping people if it’s an important piece of art, or simply helping them feel good in their own skin, whether through a tattoo or new brows! When I am not indulged in my studio, I am with my beautiful family. I am happily married to my best friend going on almost 10 years, and we have 2 of the best kids on this planet! My family is my life just as much as my studio. We built this empire together ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) My best advice for first tattoo clients would be to relax, don’t overthink, and trust. Your vibe sets the tone for your appointment; you not only need to relax physically but relax mentally. Trust your artist and what they tell you. Research someone who you will click with ⸺

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I always knew I wanted a job that could help people (big psychology fan), and I always wanted to pursue something in the art industry, but I couldn’t figure out what or how at such a young age. I definitely didn’t want to be the “art gallery” artist and wanted to take things to the next level. One day watching Miami Ink, I really zoned out on one episode in particular, and it just clicked ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Take the tattoo industry with a grain of salt. Everything is different from artist to artist and from shop to shop. Find where you vibe well with others or build your empire on your own. You have the typical traditional shops, and you have private studios these days. You’ll have a lot of people who will doubt you and try and tear you out of the industry because you “have to earn your respect,” and others that will support you from the get-go and want to see you win too. Work hard, don’t give up no matter how hard it gets, forget the haters and do your best! ✕