Meet Angel Peterson | Owner of Backstory Ink

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

Hi Angel, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I often joke that I gambled and won, even posting on Instagram about winning the lottery and what I did next. This play on words reflects my genuine belief that taking risks is essential for growth—calculated risks, that is.

When I was younger and more reckless, I took risks like letting a stranger drive me home or staying out too late, as kids often do. As life progressed, the risks became more significant. For instance, I left a Fortune 500 company where I was a spa manager to open my own brick-and-mortar business, all while being a single mom with absolutely zero savings.

As I matured, my approach to risk-taking evolved. With experience from previous ventures, I began to take calculated risks that, while having potential consequences, also promised significant rewards. For example, I shifted the focus of my business from hair to permanent makeup and later expanded to education and training. More recently due to wanting more advanced and alternative treatments to my desire to better my health, I’ve ventured into adding wellness and full-body, mind, and spirit transformation into my life, embracing alternative methods to modern medicine. Additionally I plan to help my clients heal, feel better, and radiate confidence as I learn my about my own health journey. I take from my own risks and experiences to pass on to those who need help like I do.

Taking risks has been pivotal in every significant growth phase of my life. Deciding to step away from the toxicity of alcohol was a risk against societal norms and my established identity. Launching a podcast about personal transformations after trauma was another risk, as was leaving a coveted coaching position to return to my business full-time. Each of these decisions was a gamble where I went all in on myself—not out of selfishness, but to become a better contributor to my industry and those I interact with.

The risks I took were necessary to propel my growth. I believe that by weighing the contributing factors, considering possible outcomes, and having faith in your intuition, you can’t fail—even if it takes time to see the benefits of the risks you took.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art has dramatically changed over the years and is now coming full circle. In my business, my art is expressed through permanent makeup, tiny tattoos, and permanent jewelry. While I still offer various beauty services, these are the mediums where my artistic passion truly shines.

I’m privileged to teach my art to others through in-person and online courses I’ve created. I’m particularly excited about offering an in-person course on Tiny Tattoos in Denver this September. Additionally, I’m revisiting my love for traditional art forms like photography, painting, and drawing as personal art therapy. My vision is to eventually showcase a full gallery of my work, not just on people but also in traditional mediums.

Getting to where I am today professionally hasn’t been easy. It required perseverance, continuous learning, and a willingness to take risks. I overcame challenges by staying true to my passion and constantly adapting to new trends and techniques. One crucial lesson I’ve learned is the importance of investing in quality training and equipment. This not only ensures the best results for clients but also builds trust and credibility in the industry.

I want the world to know that my brand is built on a foundation of creativity, quality, and continuous growth. Every piece of art I create, whether on skin or canvas, is a reflection of my journey and dedication to my craft. I hope for my story to be one of resilience and passion, and to inspire others to pursue their artistic dreams with the same enthusiasm.

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.
On my next adventure through Denver I plan experience the Santa Fe Art District and go to Mister Oso maybe even throw in a trip to Fish N Beer. My friend and colleague Denver boss babe Andrea of AM Aesthetics is already planning every detail with her faves which I can’t wait to try.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I love this question and hate it at the same time. To name just one person, organization, or group would downplay the profound impact so many have had on my growth and the woman I am today. There isn’t one woman in particular who made an impact, but rather a tribe of beautiful, diverse, multicultural women. These women, with their varied beliefs and outlooks, have played pivotal roles in my life.

First, I must acknowledge the incredible women I met in recovery. Their strength and resilience were instrumental in my own journey. Then, there are the women I encountered in my field—those who mentored me and those who allowed me to mentor them. On a personal level, I am grateful for the women who loved me even when I was unlovable and those who, unknowingly, touched my life deeply.

No single group deserves all the credit for my growth; instead, it is this collective tribe of women, each one a blessing in their own way. God knew I needed every one of them, and they have each contributed to my journey and success in a unique capacity.

Website: https://www.backstoryink.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelpeterson.byob/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/backstoryink

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@angelpeterson.byob

Image Credits
BrianMPhoto https://www.instagram.com/brianmphoto?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==