Meet Christie Carlin | Certified Laser Specialist

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

Hi Christie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The Start of Wise Choice Tattoo Removal

Starting Wise Choice Tattoo Removal was a journey fueled by both passion and a drive to be different than the rest, born from nearly seven years of dedicated experience and a pivotal layoff. The thought process went something like this:

Having spent almost seven years helping another clinic owner build their business, handling everything from getting clients in the door to doing all the treatments myself, I gained invaluable, firsthand knowledge of the industry. I was deeply invested, so much so that promises of part ownership and other significant opportunities were made—though, unfortunately, never put in writing. This was a learning experience, ultimately highlighted the vulnerability of relying on someone else’s word.

The unexpected layoff, triggered by a laser malfunction, was a turning point. Instead of seeing it as a setback, I recognized it as the perfect catalyst to pursue a long-held dream. I already possessed the crucial elements: extensive experience in laser tattoo removal, knowledge of the technology and client needs, and, most importantly, an unwavering desire to succeed on my own terms.

My personal journey with tattoo removal, having had over 15 of my own tattoos removed, provided a unique and profound understanding of the process from the client’s perspective. This personal connection inspired me with passion and empathy that I believe this industry deserves. It wasn’t just about starting a business; it was about creating a service that truly understands and prioritizes the client’s journey, something I felt was often missing. I wanted to focus on health and wellness, tattoo’s are toxic heavy metals. My focus was slightly different than my competition, in that, I want to remove it not only from the skin, but make sure the ink flushes from the body. I promote detoxing and good health to help the process but also to educate my clients on the importance of detoxing.

The thought process was a mix of seizing an opportunity, leveraging years of hard work, and infusing a deeply personal connection into a professional venture. It was about transforming a layoff into a launchpad for a business built on integrity, expertise, and genuine care. I strive to be the best at what I do, constantly learning and growing from each client and continuing my education of lasers and skin.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
First and foremost, it’s about the exceptional results I deliver. I utilize the advanced PicoSure laser, which is incredibly effective at targeting pigment. This means I can remove all colors of tattoo ink, a significant advantage. Beyond just tattoo removal, the PicoSure laser also offers a fantastic bonus: it can effectively eliminates skin spots, age spots, and any hyperpigmentation on the face, chest, hands, and body. A truly wonderful side effect of these treatments is the softening of fine lines, leaving clients with rejuvenated skin. The recovery process is also incredibly appealing to clients – it’s little to no downtime, with only mild redness for about a day.

What I deeply love about Wise Choice Tattoo Removal is my health and wellness-focused approach.. This isn’t just about removing tattoos from the skin but removing from the body. I’m passionate about educating clients on how to optimize their results, including the importance of flushing the lymphatic system. I’m always proud to share my knowledge and personal experience, as I’ve been through my own tattoo removal journey many times over.

Starting this business presented many challenges, which have ultimately made me a more resilient and knowledgeable entrepreneur. From the initial hurdle of acquiring a loan – which involved a business plan and presenting to a room of 30 investors – to the day-to-day operations of learning to budget, advertise effectively, and understand what truly works (and what doesn’t), every step has been a valuable lesson. I believe in knowing my numbers and setting clear goals to continually improve. Lasers are fascinating, and I’m always striving to enhance our services. My next goal is to acquire an additional laser that will best complement our current offerings and meet our clients’ evolving needs.

Ultimately, I want the world to know that I am a business owner who genuinely cares. While making a living is important, my true motivation comes from helping clients achieve the best possible results and sharing my own journey. The hard work and effort I pour into Wise Choice Tattoo Removal are a testament to my commitment to client satisfaction.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When people ask me where to go and what to do in Denver, I always light up! I have lived in Colorado over 40 years, I grew up here. This city has so much to offer, whether you’re looking for incredible food, lively entertainment, or just a great atmosphere.

For dining, my absolute top recommendation is Reckless Noodles, conveniently located just down the street from Wise Choice Tattoo Removal. On a chilly Denver evening, nothing beats their Curry Vermicelli Bowl with beef cheek – it’s absolutely delicious and incredibly comforting.

Another longtime favorite of mine is Angelo’s Taverna, their happy hour is hands down the best in Denver! If you love seafood, you have to try their oysters – both the raw and chargrilled are exceptional. I just had them today, and they were perfect. Beyond the fantastic food, the staff at Angelo’s Taverna is always so friendly and welcoming, which makes for a truly enjoyable experience.

Beyond the culinary scene, Denver’s entertainment options are fantastic. I love catching a Nuggets game, the energy at Ball Arena is electric. We also have a truly vibrant music scene, with venues ranging from intimate clubs to large arenas, so there’s always a great concert happening. But if I had to pick my absolute favorite, it would be Comedy Works Downtown. I have a long history with that place, having worked there for a very long time, and it holds a special place in my heart. You’re guaranteed a night of fantastic laughs.

So, whether you’re craving an amazing meal or a night of fun and entertainment, Denver has something for everyone!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give a huge shoutout to my networking group that I belong too. As a solo entrepreneur finding BNI (Business Networking International) helped me grow as not only a business owner but as a person. My confidence is high and I feel like I have a team behind me, I am not alone anymore. My boyfriend, Charlie, has also been crucial in my growth. Being in a relationship with someone that has your back has changed my life. He is a successful business owner himself, and understands the stress and success that comes with owning a business. I am truly grateful for the past 6 years, everything I’ve learned, I wouldn’t change it for a minute. I am following my dream and I help others make wise choices for a better future.

Website: https://www.wisechoicetattooremoval.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christie-carlin-36923a21a/

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

Yelp: https://biz.yelp.com/biz_info/QXrQX2gDgGfkDCEnPUgrXA

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wisechoicetattooremoval

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@wisechoicetattooremoval

Image Credits
Sunshine Lump with Silver Sparrow Photography