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

Hi James, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting a business was more of a necessity because the shops that I worked for did not share the same vision I have. I wanted a welcoming and inclusive tattoo shop that is a place to create not only great tattoos but important connections. My business would simply not exist if it weren’t for my clients but I do not view them as just dollar signs, which I found many shop owners do. My clients become my friends and tattoos are a way to celebrate, commemorate, and express their lives. I am very thankful they choose me, and my teammates, to be part of their experiences. One of my clients became a close friend and then my business partner for the shop. He also owns another local business and knows the importance of timing. We found the perfect location and just made it happen.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

We have an amazing tattoo shop. I am most proud about the relationships we’ve built with our clients and the fact that so many of them come hang out even when they aren’t getting tattooed. I’m really excited that we have such a grew crew that is well rounded artistically but also gets along so well. It’s a very inviting atmosphere we’ve created. While everything feels seamless now it felt challenging getting to this point. Challenges included working in other shops that didn’t align with my true vision, finding a team of talented artists that worked well together, and exceeding all of the safety guidelines set by the strict health department in our county.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The Northern Colorado area has some great spots to eat and hang out like Luna’s Tacos & Tequila, The Still Whiskey, and The School House Kitchen & Libations. I love to see live music so we would have to go to the Moxi, the Bluebird, and of course Red Rocks. I’m really into riding my motorcycle so we would definitely a ride through the mountains and see the pretty views. Some place I don’t look like I belong (face tattoos and a beard) is a golf course but I love going to Highland Hills, Thorncreek, and The Raven Golf Club at Three Peaks.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My beautiful wife. She came into my world and helped encourage me to expand my artistry and turn it into an amazing business. I had been in the industry for years but brought a new light. I also have to thank my parents for really supporting me growing up. They always believed in me and instilled the confidence that I could do anything I set my mind to. They were hesitant about the tattoo industry at first but realized it was where I would thrive. My business partner, Jay, also deserves some credit and recognition for helping put the shop together. He was a crucial piece to the puzzle and we’re so thankful for him. 

Website: https://heartlucktattooco.com

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

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

Image Credits
Headshot from Karlee Provenza, Renegade Images.

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