We had the good fortune of connecting with Caroline Wright and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Caroline, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
We consider ourselves very fortunate to be able to help the community around us. My top priority has always been to help others in whatever way I can, so when we opened the shop in July, we made a conscious effort to begin pushing toward that goal. In August, we hosted our first fundraiser tattooing event and worked with an amazing local rescue, Angels for Paws. This is the first of many we have planned, and it’s been amazing to be able to create art AND make an impact for others. Eventually, we’d like to be able to benefit one local charity/nonprofit a month, so we’re actively building our schedules around that in the coming months.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have done art all my life, but really found my niche in tattooing about 5 years ago. When we opened, I made the choice to have a lower minimum than other shops in the area because I feel that art should be attainable.

It has been incredibly exciting to be able to create a more beautiful world through my art. I think as I really think on what I’m most excited for, it’s to see the business grow into something that can be duplicated and start opening other locations, all while continuing to benefit those in the communities around us.

It hasn’t exactly been an easy ride, but nothing worth fighting for is. Before opening, we lost my dad, and among other life things, a lot of my life seemed like it wanted to fall apart. My fiancé has always reminded me to get comfortable being uncomfortable, and as hard as that can be at times, growth comes from that discomfort.

And then, on one of my darker days in the midst of discomfort, one of my clients told me, “you are making a difference for so many people. Never stop.” Another client told me that during a college course, they were asked to think of who their “real-life hero” would be, and she chose ME. There have been so many of these moments when I’m struggling that have brought me back to knowing that I’m on the path I’m meant to be on.

So, despite the discomfort and hardships of life, pieces kept falling into place and it was kind of a “the universe just needs you to keep pushing”. Life can be incredibly messy, but also gorgeous and magical. We can’t fix things for people around us, but we can help in our own little, magical ways. And I love that more than I can express in words.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Honestly, I don’t get out much these days, so this is a fun question. I tend to be a pretty chill, indoors person, but when the weather is right, I appreciate a good hike or walk around the Riparian Preserve in Gilbert. If the kiddos are with us, there are some incredible parks. Our favorite right now is Eastmark Park in East Mesa. My fiancé and I love playing music, so the MIM would be on the list for sure. We don’t drink, so our top choices for a fun beverage and treat spot would be Kaleidescope Juice and Matcha Grove. If we’re going for a fun dinner, Persian Room is one of my favorites! That fresh made bread with butter and basil – oh man. Chef’s kiss.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My first shoutout is to all of our amazing clients! From those who came to me as I was first starting my tattoo career, to those who found us through our fundraising campaigns for Angels for Paws, and everyone in-between. The ability to touch people’s lives through art has been an incredible opportunity, and I couldn’t ask for a better support system. I also want to shoutout my fiancé Kevin, whose support and tough love have gotten me so far in life, and my sweet kiddos, who have always given me the extra push toward being the best human I can be. My apprentices get a huge shoutout as well, because they’re the ones who truly bring life, love, and a sense of belonging in the shop. They have all been a huge source of inspiration in making the huge transition to full-blown entrepreneurship. And of course, my parents and older brother, who shaped me and taught me how to be independent but still ask for help when I need it most, and how to find a balance between work and home life. I wouldn’t be where I am without these people.

Website: https://www.soundsanctuarytattoos.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sound_sanctuary_tattoos/

Other: https://linktr.ee/soundsanctuarytattoos

Image Credits
Heather Wynne Photography

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