We had the good fortune of connecting with Andy Mendler and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Andy, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born and raised in the West Village in New York City. The city opened my eyes to what the world has to offer. I was surrounded by inspiration, chaos, and personality. I can’t imagine growing up anywhere else. Living in New York, you are forced to be independent. You have to be ready to fight for what you want. If anything impacted who I am today it would be my independence. My parents let me fly and flourish, I was never tied down. My parents are both strong-willed and stubborn. It taught me how to reach people on a deeper level. Something I’m still working on today as an entrepreneur.
What should our readers know about your business?
I am the proud owner of Skye Ink Tattoo, an eco-friendly tattoo studio in Wynwood, Miami. Owning your own business is never easy, let alone a service industry. Our art speaks for itself, what really sets us apart is our customer service! I make sure every single one of our clients leaves happy and in love with their new tattoo. I make myself personally available to any client that needs me outside of the studio. Since our opening three years ago there have been countless challenges. The only way to overcome hardships is to take them one step at a time. If something is out of your control, you have to let it go and find the road forward. Never look back. That would be my biggest piece of advice, learn from your mistakes along the way but KEEP GOING. Three years doesn’t sound like a long time but sometimes it feels like I’ve been doing this forever. I have to remind myself that things are constantly evolving and we are still growing. I’m really excited to see how the brand makes changes to keep up with the times. As generations grow older you always find yourself with a new customer base. It’s really fun and keeps you on your toes!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is a fun one! We’d go to the beach first and foremost. They probably need some Vitamin D! For food we’d go to Uchi, Surf Club, and Cote. Fight me on finding better restaurants in Miami! For fun there’s only one place… Space! If they’re an animal lover, we’d go to the Zoological Wildlife Foundation. I had the best day ever there.
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?
My success is largely dedicated to my father, Joseph Mendler. He has lived a tumultuous and scary life, and he turned his pain into power. I wouldn’t be who I am today without his support and guidance. Nothing prepares you for what’s to come, but my dad, forever the voice of reason, always offers a different perspective. It’s truly remarkable and I admire him so much.
Website: Www.skyeink.com
Instagram: Www.instagram.com/skyeinkmiami
Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KrQvueHpUs6mv5Vu6?g_st=ic
Image Credits
Portraits and team shots – Luis Mattos Interiors – Venjhamin Reyes