Redemption Ink Receives Small Business Award

The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is please to present the September Small Business Award to Redemption Ink. Founded by Luis Guiterrez, his journey is a story of true transformation, creativity, perseverance, and redemption!

Growing up in California, Luis discovered his love for art at a young age. At just nine years old, he was fascinated by tattooing—so much so that he built his own tattoo machines. Soon, he became known in his neighborhood for his artistic skill and creativity. Despite many challenges along the way, Luis never gave up on his dream of becoming a tattoo artist. That dream brought him here, where he has turned his lifelong passion into a thriving small business.

After completing a rigorous apprenticeship at Relentless Inc. in Wichita, Luis and his wife Melissa opened Redemption Ink in Hutchinson. Together, they combined his artistic talent with her business expertise. What started as a one-person operation has quickly grown into a 2,050-square-foot studio with seven tattoo artists, a professional piercer, and a receptionist.

The studio is especially known for expert tattoo coverups, transforming past regrets into meaningful, beautiful artwork. Melissa now manages the business full-time, ensuring every client experiences a warm, welcoming, and judgment-free environment. It’s this combination of artistry and compassion that truly sets Redemption Ink apart.

Since opening in 2017, their growth has been incredible. They’ve not only expanded their team and services but have also built a loyal following that has voted them “Best of the Best” six years in a row. Their unique booth rental model allows artists to keep 100% of their earnings, empowering them as independent professionals while still being part of a collaborative and supportive team.

But Luis and Melissa’s impact doesn’t stop at the studio doors. Redemption Ink gives back generously to the community, supporting organizations like Redemption Animal Rescue, Oxford House, Reno County Cancer Council, Brothers in Blue Prison Ministry, Trinity High School, and youth sports teams. Luis also has a special passion for mentoring at-risk youth, often speaking at Hutchinson Alternative School and Reno County Youth Services. His motto says it best: “Impacting lives one tattoo at a time.”

For Luis and Melissa, success is measured by the lives they touch—whether that’s restoring someone’s confidence with a coverup, mentoring an artist, or supporting a local cause. They want people to know that Redemption Ink is more than a tattoo and piercing studio—it’s a place of compassion, creativity, and connection.

We are honored to celebrate Redemption Ink as our September Small Business of the Month, and we thank Luis and Melissa for the inspiration, artistry, and community spirit they bring to Reno County.