Bizwatch: Avanti Tattoo in Avon specializes in custom tattoos and piercing
Shop also offers non-laser tattoo removal
Avanti Tattoo/Courtesy photo
Business name: Avanti Tattoo
Location: 41184 U.S. Highway 6, Suite 160, Avon
Date opened: October 2019
Owner: Michele Toon, since October 2023
Contact information: hello@avantitattoo.com, or call 970 949-7994
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What goods or services do you provide? Custom tattoos and piercing services, as well as permanent cosmetics. Avanti Tattoo is also the only location in Colorado to offer a cutting-edge alternative to traditional laser tattoo removal. Avanti Tattoo also has aftercare products, medical-grade piercing jewelry, original art for sale as well as freebie merch branded with Avanti Tattoo.
Tell the story of your Vail Valley business with a Bizwatch feature in the Vail Daily. For more information, email Vail Daily Business Editor Scott Miller at smiller@vaildaily.com.
What’s new or exciting at your place? Two major things: non-laser tattoo removal and a wider variety of jewelry.
Avanti Tattoo is the only shop in Colorado today that offers a safe, effective, and less invasive option for tattoo removal. This method is perfect for those looking to fade or completely remove old tattoos without the downtime or discomfort of lasers. This technique is a game-changer.
The shop has brought in a stunning new range of high-quality jewelry for piercings. Whether you’re into bold, statement pieces or dainty, minimalist designs, there’s something for everyone. With this expanded collection, Avanti Tattoo can help clients upgrade their piercings with beautiful, unique options.
What strategy do you use to differentiate your business from your competition? Avanti Tattoo is different from the typical tattoo shop experience. Unlike some places where the atmosphere can feel intimidating or uncomfortable, the shop fosters a friendly, professional and welcoming environment.
Avanti Tattoo is owned by a licensed nurse, which sets it apart from many other tattoo shops. With a deep understanding of anatomy, sterilization and skin care, the owner brings a professional, health-conscious approach to every aspect of the business. This medical background ensures the highest standards of safety, hygiene and client care, offering peace of mind to those seeking tattoos, piercings, non-laser removal or cosmetic procedures. Clients can trust that their health and well-being are a top priority, alongside the artistry and creativity of their body art.
Every client is treated with respect, patience and kindness, ensuring that they feel comfortable and supported throughout the entire process. Avanti Tattoo believes in building lasting relationships with all clients, making their experience as positive and enjoyable as possible.
What philosophy do you follow in dealing with your customers? Our goal is to make every client feel valued, supported and safe throughout their entire experience, from the initial consultation to aftercare. As a nurse-owned studio, we also emphasize the importance of health, hygiene and safety in every procedure, ensuring clients’ well-being is always top priority.
What can your customers expect from you? Customers can expect a truly personalized experience at Avanti Tattoo. Whether they’re getting their first tattoo or adding to an existing collection, the team takes the time to understand their vision and provide expert guidance in choosing the perfect design.
Tell us a little about your background, education and experience: Petro, our senior artist, is originally from the Bay Area but has tattooed all over the Southwest. When a client schedules a consultation appointment, frequently Petro can understand what his clients want immediately, sometimes even before they do. His art has been purchased by large collectors, musicians and celebrities. While Petro has held guest spots in many shops all over the country, Avanti Tattoo is home.
Preston, our senior piercer, is a highly talented piercer with a reputation for excellence in his craft. A nomadic spirit, he spends much of his time traveling but has returned to Avanti Tattoo permanently to share his skills with clients. Known for his precision and artistry, Preston is a sought-after professional in the world of body piercing. Preston also leads Piercing Parties, a social event where a group of people gather to get body piercings together in a fun, group-oriented setting.
Michele, the owner and artist, is a versatile professional with a background in cardiac electrophysiology, having spent over 25 years in corporate America. She is a nurse, permanent makeup artist, non-laser tattoo removal expert and (backup) piercer. Michele manages the business alongside her life partner, Petro.
What is the most humorous thing that has happened at your business since you opened?
A recent heartwarming moment occurred when a mother and her three grown children came in to get matching hummingbird tattoos. They chose the design as a tribute to the mom’s late mother, who they believed often made her presence known through hummingbirds. The family was thrilled with their tattoos, took several photos to commemorate the occasion, and left the shop with smiles on their faces.
Just moments later, the mom walked back in, tears welling in her eyes. Outside, she had picked up a copy of the Vail Daily from the stand, and right there on the cover was a stunning photograph of a hummingbird. Overwhelmed, she shared how she felt it was a sign of her mother’s presence.
