Conversations with Cat Mackinley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cat Mackinley.

Hi Cat, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey into cosmetic and paramedical tattooing started from a very personal place. A loved one of mine was feeling self-conscious about a facial scar, and I began researching ways to help her feel more confident again. That search introduced me to the world of cosmetic tattooing, and something just clicked—I realized it was the perfect intersection of artistry, purpose, and human connection.

Before this, I spent years working as a goldsmith and fine artist, so precision and aesthetics were already a huge part of my life. But I was craving something more personal—something where I could witness the impact of my work firsthand. I took a leap of faith, used my savings, and took out a loan to pursue training. I spent nearly a year in school while working part-time, and despite a serious car accident right at the end of my training, I pushed through and started Ink & Gold Studio.

The early days weren’t easy—especially trying to build a client base in a new city and industry. But I’ve worked hard to educate myself on marketing, stay rooted in my mission, and continually improve my craft. Today, I’m proud to be doing work that helps people feel seen, beautiful, and empowered—especially those going through medical journeys or confidence struggles. Every day I get to do this work feels like a gift.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Definitely not a smooth road—but a meaningful one. Right as I was finishing my training, I was in a serious car accident that left me with injuries, trauma, and without a vehicle—all of which slowed down my launch significantly. It was a huge emotional and financial setback, and recovering from that while trying to start a business was incredibly challenging.

On top of that, I was building a business in a new industry and a new city where I didn’t have a network. I wasn’t coming from the beauty world, so I had to learn everything—from finding clients to navigating marketing and sales—basically from scratch. There were months where I wasn’t sure if I could keep going.

But every challenge taught me something. I’ve learned to be resourceful, to invest in myself even when it feels scary, and to stay connected to why I started. Taking a course in digital marketing helped me finally gain traction, and little by little, I started to see growth.

What’s kept me going is the belief that the work I’m doing matters. When I see a client look in the mirror and tear up from joy or relief—that’s when I know it’s all been worth it.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in cosmetic and paramedical tattooing—services like natural-looking brows, lashline enhancement, and stretch mark revision—but at its core, my work is about helping people feel like their most confident, authentic selves. I founded Ink & Gold Studio with the belief that enhancing natural beauty can be a powerful tool for self-assurance and healing.

I’m known for results that feel soft, subtle, and artfully tailored to each individual. My background in fine art and fine jewelry really informs my approach—I have a strong eye for detail, a deep understanding of color theory, and a steady hand from years of meticulous craftwork. But more than that, I take a lot of care in making my studio a welcoming, safe, and supportive space—especially for those who may be coming in with insecurities or scars, both visible and invisible.

I’m especially proud of the clients I’ve helped who are recovering from medical challenges like chemotherapy, surgery, or trauma. One of my very first clients cried tears of joy after I helped restore her brows post-cancer treatment—and that moment confirmed I was doing the right work. I’m now working toward offering services at no cost to those in need through local partnerships, once I’m in a more sustainable place.

What sets me apart is the intention behind everything I do. This isn’t just beauty work—it’s about care, transformation, and creating space for people to see themselves in a new light.

We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I think luck shows up in both expected and unexpected ways—and for me, it’s often looked like the right people or opportunities appearing at just the right time. Of course, I’ve had setbacks—like a serious car accident that made it hard to launch my business—but even in that, I eventually found strength and clarity about what I truly wanted to build.

Some of the most meaningful “luck” has come in the form of people—friends who believed in me when things felt uncertain, mentors who shared knowledge, or clients who trusted me early on and helped spread the word. Even discovering the cosmetic tattoo industry in the first place felt like a moment of serendipity. I was searching for a way to help someone I love, and it led me to a career that feels deeply aligned with who I am.

I also believe you can create your own luck by showing up with intention, staying open to growth, and saying yes—even when the path is uncertain. I’ve worked hard, but I’m incredibly grateful for every bit of good timing, kindness, and opportunity that’s helped me get here.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Inkandgoldstudio.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/inkandgold_studio
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/inkandgoldstudio

Image Credits
None, all are mine!