Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina Hulka.
Hi Christina, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve always had a love for makeup and anything that helps enhance someone’s features. In late 2016, I took my first permanent makeup course in San Antonio, Texas. Shortly after, my instructor mentioned a conference in England that would be beneficial for me. Intrigued, I decided to attend. Just a few weeks later, I found myself in England, surrounded by industry professionals and enthusiasts. This experience opened doors for me, and I soon found myself flying back and forth between America and Europe to attend advanced tattooing courses and conferences.
After my initial training in San Antonio, I attended an areola tattooing training program in Boston, focusing on helping breast cancer survivors. This experience further ignited my passion for permanent makeup.
Over the past eight years, I’ve dedicated myself to studying facial features, inks, color theory, and various styles of permanent makeup. This journey has been both challenging and rewarding. People NEED to understand that mastering this craft is not something that happens overnight. It takes years to become comfortable, build a loyal clientele, and perfect a skill that is constantly being challenged by different skin types and case studies.
Throughout this journey, I’ve attended numerous courses, conferences, and training sessions, constantly striving to improve and refine my techniques. This dedication to continuous learning and improvement has been instrumental in establishing Inked & Blinked as a trusted provider of high-quality permanent makeup services.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Well, if I’m being completely honest, it’s been a mixture of both smooth sailing and rough waters. In the beginning, this career felt like a very expensive hobby, especially during the first few years when I was just getting my feet wet. Most of my earnings were reinvested back into the business, covering expenses like rent, supplies, taxes, licenses, tools, marketing, and, of course, continuous education through various classes and workshops. It turns out, being a professional permanent makeup artist also means being a professional student.
One of the challenges I face is managing client expectations. Clients who come into my studio with previous work from a different artist, for example, are not going to have the same results as someone with virgin skin. As I always say, ‘I’m only as great as the canvas I’m given.’
Despite these challenges, I’ve been incredibly blessed with a fantastic clientele who genuinely care about me as a person, not just as their tattoo artist. Their support and understanding have been invaluable on this journey.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a licensed tattoo artist specializing in permanent eyebrows, eyeliner, lips, areolas for breast cancer survivors, and the occasional body art. One of my specialties that I’m very well known for is my beautiful shaded/pixelated eyeliner. It’s a unique technique that few artists in America have mastered.
My work is often described as dreamy, airbrushed, and European-inspired, and I have clients who come from all over to get tattooed by me. What sets me apart from others is that I’m not a jack of all trades; I’m focused on perfecting my craft in these specific areas.
I believe people are comfortable with me because I’m genuine. I don’t put on an overly nice or fake facade. Instead, I believe in honesty and telling my clients what they need to hear, not just what they want to hear, especially when it comes to their tattoos.
I’m proud to have created and built a business where women can come and get a tattoo in a safe, beautiful environment.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
The COVID-19 crisis taught me the importance of not overworking myself. Those few months of being out of work were honestly what I needed. I’ve realized the necessity of taking a few days off each week to live and breathe. It’s essential for maintaining both physical and mental well-being.
Pricing:
- Permanent Makeup ranges from $450-620
Contact Info:
- Website: www.inkedandblinked.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/inkedandblinkedpmu
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inkedandblinked/
- Other: https://inkedandblinkedbooking.as.me/
