In 2016, Anastasia Ferman immigrated to the U.S. from Ukraine. Having already experienced an incursion of her home country in 2014, Ferman was familiar with the fear that comes from living under siege. However, when the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine took place in 2022, Ferman found herself “overwhelmed with fear, grief and helplessness” as her family found themselves amid an active war zone. Ferman knew she needed to channel the pain, which ultimately led to launching her Brooklyn tattoo parlour, Tingle Studio – a space that has been thoughtfully designed to feel inclusive and safe for both clients and artists. Ferman told us that “creating this space became my way of reclaiming agency, making beauty in the midst of despair, and offering others a place for healing and expression.”

Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.

How is your business different from others in your industry?

I built my studio to be everything tattoo studios generally are not: Inclusive, emotionally intelligent, and rooted in artistic intention. From the moment you walk in, the experience feels elevated — not just visually, but energetically. We prioritize care, calm and connection over ego or intimidation.

But perhaps the biggest difference is the atmosphere. Our space is designed to be a sanctuary. Whatever the reason for someone coming in to get a tattoo – whether that is commemorating grief, celebrating a milestone, or simply expressing beauty, I want them to feel held in the process — not rushed, judged, or overlooked.

Tell us about your biggest success so far. 

Growing the studio from a small, hidden office on the 5th floor of a building, funded entirely from my personal savings, into a beautiful storefront space in Brooklyn. That first space had no foot traffic, no sign outside – just me, my work, and a belief that if I created something intentional, people would find it.

When the time came to expand, I took out a loan — a huge risk — to move into a more visible, welcoming location. That move felt like a turning point; I went from quietly surviving to finally building something that could grow.

Now, I have a team made up of immigrants, queer artists and people of color — voices that deserve space in this industry. We’re still growing, and I’m still learning, but every time I unlock the door to my own storefront, I’m reminded how far I’ve come.

What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?

Getting our name out there — building visibility, engagement, and consistent client flow in such a saturated and competitive industry. As a new, independently-owned studio without a major marketing budget, brand awareness has been an uphill climb. Most of our growth so far has been organic — through word of mouth, social media and the emotional connection clients have with our work. But to push further, I’ve started investing more energy into refining our online presence, building strategic collaborations, and exploring community events and press opportunities that align with our values.

Have you experienced any significant personal situations that affected your business decisions? 

The full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 was one of the most stressful and heartbreaking moments of my life. With my family suddenly living in a war zone, I felt helpless and overwhelmed. That crisis became a turning point — I needed to put all of that fear and grief into something meaningful. It gave me the clarity and urgency to finally create my own space.

At the same time, working for others no longer made sense to me. I was tired of environments that didn’t align with my values or allow me the creative and emotional freedom I needed. Starting my own studio wasn’t just a business decision — it was survival, purpose and healing all at once.

What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? 

Start scrappy, but build like you’re serious — even if it’s just you, alone, in a small rented room. Don’t wait for perfect timing, a bigger budget or external validation. Just begin. Looking back, I wish I had trusted myself more from the start. I spent too much time second-guessing whether I was ready. 

Also, invest in systems early — even basic ones — to help you stay organized and avoid burnout. You can’t build something sustainable if you’re constantly in survival mode. And finally, your values matter. Build a business that reflects who you are, not just what you think will sell. People can feel the difference.

How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?

I return to what grounds me. Sometimes that’s sketching without pressure, lighting a candle or just being quiet with myself. I think of my grandmother, of everything she endured, and remind myself that I carry her strength. I think of my clients, the stories they trust me with, and the responsibility I have to create something meaningful for them. But honestly, some days, it’s just about showing up — even if it’s messy or slow. Inspiration doesn’t always arrive like magic; sometimes it grows out of persistence, out of grief, out of still being here.

What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?

“I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl” by Nina Simone.

Who is your most important role model?

My maternal grandmother. She grew up during the Nazi occupation of Ukraine and started working when she was just 12 years old. She didn’t have access to a formal education, but she carried incredible wisdom, integrity and strength. She ran her own small baking business from home — people in our community would order her cakes for birthdays and celebrations, and I’d help her decorate them. She passed away 11 years ago, but everything I know about hard work, resilience and showing up with heart, I learned from her. Her spirit is with me in everything I do – especially in the way I pour myself into my business and care for my clients. ◾

Instagram: @tinglestudio

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