Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Starr Fitch.
Hi Amber Starr, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Art has always been part of who I am. I’ve been drawing since I could hold a pencil, and a lot of that love came from my mom—she’s an artist herself and nurtured my creativity from an early age. In high school, I dreamed of becoming a tattoo artist, but at the time, the industry felt intimidating and out of reach, so I shelved the idea.
Years later, while home with my kids, I felt the pull to reconnect with my creative side—something just for me. Right before COVID hit, I finally decided: What do I have to lose? I jumped in, thinking tattooing might be a fun little hobby, something to do on the side while raising my family. Looking back now, I laugh at that idea—because five years later, it’s become one of my biggest passions and a huge part of my life.
I was lucky to apprentice under Sarah DeAzevedo, who taught me so much as my mentor. I spent two incredible years at Locust Tattoo, where I made lifelong friendships. From there, I joined Nowhere Tattoo to continue growing and learning from artists with different styles and perspectives. That move gave me not just new skills, but a true sense of community.
I’m now working at Hearts and Hands Tattoo and Piercing in Orem, side by side with my best friend, in a shop full of talent and genuinely kind people. I feel so lucky to be here—still learning, still pushing myself to grow, and constantly inspired by the people I work with and the clients I get to tattoo. None of this would be possible without the support of my amazing husband, Travis, who helps make it all work behind the scenes.
Tattooing is a craft where you’re always evolving, and I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who’s been part of my journey so far.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Smooth? Not even close. Honestly, this has probably been the rockiest road I’ve traveled in any field—and I’ve worn a lot of hats. Tattooing can be misunderstood as an easy or “cool” job, but let me tell you: it’s hard. Way harder than I ever expected—even knowing it would be tough going in.
The industry itself is constantly evolving at warp speed. Keeping up with new styles, techniques, and technology is a full-time job in itself. Add in the social media side—creating content, staying visible, engaging online—it’s like running two businesses at once. It can feel overwhelming, but what’s helped me most is staying curious: taking seminars, watching tutorials, following artists who inspire and educate. Surrounding myself with other talented tattooers and never being afraid to ask questions has been huge. You can learn so much just by listening, watching, and being open—regardless of where someone is in their career.
One of the biggest personal challenges has been balancing it all—being a tattoo artist, a wife, a mom of five (yes, five!), and a human who still loves a good social gathering. Tattooing isn’t just what happens at the shop—it’s the prep, the drawing, the emails, the edits, the DMs, the late-night planning. It’s a lot. And I’m still learning that I’m not, in fact, a machine. Shocking, I know. I’m lucky to have an incredible support system—my husband, our kids, my friends, coworkers, and the most gracious clients a person could ask for. I truly couldn’t do it without them.
And since we’re being real—let’s talk imposter syndrome. I didn’t really feel it until I started putting my work out into the world. Suddenly, I was comparing myself to the sea of stupidly talented artists out there (especially here in Utah—what is in the water??). It’s hard not to go down that spiral, but I’ve worked hard to shift my mindset. Instead of seeing others as competition, I see them as inspiration. We all bring something different to the table, and that’s what makes this industry so beautiful. Still, imposter syndrome does sneak in sometimes. But now, I just nod at it, remind it who’s boss, and keep going.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Well, I’m a pink-loving, floral-drawing, overly caffeinated tattoo artist—and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I specialize in illustrative black-and-grey and fine-line work, with a big love for botanicals and whimsical, storybook-style illustrations. I like to think I’m known for my soft-yet-bold florals, delicate details, and… pink. So much pink. If it can be pink, it probably is.
One thing I’m really proud of is how I’ve never stopped pushing myself—even when it’s uncomfortable (especially when it’s uncomfortable). Lately, I’ve been diving into more semi-realistic pieces that stretch my skills and occasionally make me sweat a little. But honestly? I thrive under that pressure. There’s something exciting about taking on a project that scares you just a bit—it usually means you’re about to grow.
I think what sets me apart is that I don’t exactly look like your stereotypical tattoo artist—and I love that. I’ve got the lashes, the glitter, the soft vibes… and I’ll still lay down some crisp, clean linework and detail-heavy designs. The industry is shifting, and I love seeing so many insanely talented women showing up, taking space, and bringing their own style to the table. It’s empowering to be exactly who you are in a field that used to feel so one-note. I hope my work—and maybe even my vibe—helps others feel like they can show up as their full selves, too.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Here are a few things that might surprise people about me: I’ve been tattooing for just under five years, and when I started, I only had two small tattoos myself—now I’m starting to run out of real estate! I grew up in Oregon without any religious background, and I’m the oldest and only girl in my family, which made for an interesting dynamic.
I’ve been married to my husband Travis for 10 years, and together we have five amazing kids and one very spoiled pup. We moved here from Austin, Texas about nine years ago—so yes, I’m a Texan-turned-Utahn.
When I’m not tattooing, I love hitting the gym, hunting for thrift store gems, drinking way too much coffee, and indulging in good food. Fun fact: before tattooing, I used to make cakes professionally—I’ve always loved creating with my hands. And if you’d told me a decade ago that I’d go from banker at Wells Fargo to full-time tattoo artist, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. Life’s funny like that!
Contact Info:
