"CEF looked beyond credit scores and focused on my business plan, experience, and commitment. They treated me like a partner, not a number, and provided guidance and support that made launching the business both possible and sustainable."  Jeffrey Winzenried Jr.

Certified Laser Technician- Tattoo Removal
Owner: Jeffrey Winzenried Jr.

Q&A with Owner, Jeffrey Winzenried Jr. 

Give a high level overview of your business.
Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal is a specialized laser tattoo removal clinic based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. We focus exclusively on safe, effective tattoo removal and tattoo fading for cover-ups using advanced picosecond laser technology. Our core service is professional laser tattoo removal, with treatment plans customized to each client based on tattoo characteristics, skin type, and long-term goals. We also provide strategic fading services in collaboration with local tattoo artists to help clients achieve clean, high-quality cover-ups.

The business officially launched in 2025 and operates under Colorado Tattoo Removal LLC, doing business as Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal. We are located on the north side of Colorado Springs, serving clients throughout the Pikes Peak region and surrounding communities. Mountain Edge was founded to fill a clear gap in the market: a dedicated, technology-driven clinic focused solely on tattoo removal—not as an add-on service, but as a specialized medical-grade treatment delivered with precision, education, and integrity.

Our mission is to help people move forward with confidence—whether that means fully removing an unwanted tattoo or preparing the skin for a new chapter through a cover-up. We emphasize transparency, realistic expectations, and long-term results. Since opening, we’ve seen strong demand driven by word-of-mouth referrals, partnerships with tattoo artists, and a growing awareness of modern laser technology. The business is positioned for sustainable growth, with plans to expand services, deepen community partnerships, and eventually replicate the model in additional Colorado markets.

How did the idea for your business come about? 
After the solar company I worked for left Colorado in 2024 and I was laid off, I returned to entrepreneurship. I previously owned Monkey Bar Gym Milwaukee, hiked the Pacific Crest Trail in 2019, and—with a name my wife gave me—launched Mountain Edge Tattoo Removal in a growing industry.

Describe your typical customer and what you love about your customers?
Our typical customer is someone ready for change, often professionals, military members, or individuals preparing for a cover-up. I love working with people who are intentional, motivated, and trusting us with something personal as they move forward with confidence.

What led your business to seek out new/additional funding?
I sought additional funding to properly launch the business with the right equipment, training, and operating capital. The goal was to build a strong foundation from day one and avoid shortcuts while scaling responsibly and sustainably.

Describe your difficulties in obtaining funding for your small business and how that impacted you and your business.
As a new startup without long operating history, securing traditional financing was difficult. Limited access to capital created pressure around timing and cash flow, making it harder to launch at the level of quality I expected and slowing early momentum.

What ultimately made you decide to go with CEF as your lender?
CEF looked beyond credit scores and focused on my business plan, experience, and commitment. They treated me like a partner, not a number, and provided guidance and support that made launching the business both possible and sustainable.

What were you able to do with the funding you received from CEF? 
The funding allowed me to secure equipment, complete training, and establish operating capital to launch with confidence. It gave me the ability to open the business properly, maintain high standards, and serve customers without cutting corners.

Tell us about some of the defining moments for you in your business, whether struggles or successes.
Launching after being laid off was a defining challenge, but opening the doors and treating my first customers validated the vision. Each successful outcome and referral confirmed that building the business intentionally and with integrity was the right decision.

Have you worked with our Business Navigation (coaching) team?  What differencehas working with them made for your business? 
Yes. Working with Gracia on marketing has been invaluable. Her guidance helped me clarify my messaging, strengthen my brand, and focus on strategies that drive real results. The support has accelerated growth and boosted my confidence as a business owner.

What is something you're looking forward to in the next 3-6 months in your business? 
n the next few months, I’m excited to reach my one-year milestone in March and take steps toward opening a second location. It’s a reflection of early traction, disciplined growth, and the long-term vision for scaling the business responsibly.