Sunday, February 16, 2025

Ten Questions with Caitlin Brannon

(Caitlin Brannon)

HISTORIC TRIANGLE — ‘Ten Questions with’ is a series that allows readers to get to know local business leaders, volunteers and community members in the Historic Triangle.

This week, meet Inked Magazine Cover Model Search 2023 Semi-Finalist and Williamsburg resident, Caitlin Brannon.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

People know me as Catie Brannon and I work at Rick’s Cheesesteak Shop. I have been a part of their family business for a long time. I’m a true crime content creator and make videos on TikTok that showcase true crime stories as well as my own personality. I also placed in the 2023 semi-finals of Inked Magazine’s Cover Model Search contest. I’m really big on body positivity, self-confidence, and loving yourself.

How did you find out about the Inked contest?

It was late one night and I happened to see an advertisement on Facebook. They were offering a cash prize, the opportunity to get a free tattoo from Ryan Ashley as well as being on the cover of the magazine. I was so excited because I truly love Ryan Ashley’s work and I would absolutely lose my mind if I could receive a tattoo from her. Her work is incredible. She makes tattoo jewelry that looks real on your skin. I would love to finish my sleeve with beautiful femininity symbolism.

What is your favorite tattoo and why?

My favorite tattoo is on my left arm upper sleeve of a dios muertos (sugar skull fortune teller). I believe if you have lost someone that they will never be forgotten and you yourself always keep their memory alive.

(Caitlin Brannon)

How do you define body positivity?

Body positivity can have a hyped-up reputation. Not every day is going to be your best day, but if you put your foot forward to put a smile on your face it will all come natural. You have to truly love yourself and your experiences. Forgive yourself and learn to move regardless of trauma because we all have our own story. The important thing is, you can look in the mirror and say I love you.

What is your most successful accomplishment to date?

That is really a tough question because I have done so much. I won a national competition with Movie Stop where I won a trip to the Sundance film festival and it was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I was a semifinalist for the Inked cover girl model search. That in itself is pretty incredible, especially with all the amazing competition. I visited Ireland and married the love of my life on top of the cliffs of Moher.  I learned to love myself for who I am. And I started my own podcast series. If you’re fascinated by true crime definitely look me up!

What piece of advice would you give your younger self?

I would say you’re a trendsetter and always have been. Keep doing you! Remember you could be the juiciest peach ever, but there’s always going to be someone who doesn’t like peaches. You’re beautiful, be kind to yourself.

How long have you lived in the greater Williamsburg/York area?

I’ve lived in Virginia since 1999. I grew up around the Yorktown area, went to Grafton Middle and High School before transferring to Poquoson High School where I graduated from.

What is your favorite part of living here?

I love the scenery, the history and the people. There is so much to learn, try and do. I love the diversity.

What do you do for downtime/to relax?

I love watching documentaries, reading (thriller and horror ) and to sing! My absolute favorite thing to do is just chill and hang out with my cats on a relaxing day.

What is the next step in your journey?

Even though my Inked journey has ended, I am hoping it may still bring new opportunities. Taking part in that process really pushed me to create my podcast from a mini True Crime series (Tea Time True Crime with Cait) I have been working on for a little over two years now. I have been fascinated by true crime since I was little and would watch John Walsh on America’s Most Wanted with my Memom. I want to become a true crime advocate and help families find closure. I would love to be a part of a foundation where we could raise money for DNA testing. The world is my oyster, so I am just gonna keep finding precious pearls. Perhaps my channel turns into a TV show or I become a journalist. You never know, but I can’t wait to find out!

Do you want to learn more about your community and the people that live and work in the Historic Triangle? We are looking for people with interesting jobs, super volunteers, or community leaders to showcase. Reach out to let us know if you (or someone you know) would like to be considered for Ten Questions.

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