When Rochester-native Amanda Cantie moved to Las Vegas with her best friend four years ago, she quickly discovered a crucial aspect of life that applies whether you’re living in Roc City or Sin City.

“When we first got there it was amazing,” recalls the 23-year-old brown-eyed cutie. “Sure, we had our fun for a while. Then reality set in and we realized we had to find jobs.”

The occupation Cantie found certainly explains why her body looks as colorful as it does. She landed a receptionist position at Huntington Ink Tattoo Lounge at the Palms Casino Resort. The number of tattoos on her body has multiplied ever since.

Cantie returned to Rochester a month ago, but don’t expect her to be here for long.

“I decided to come home for a few months and visit with family and friends before I takeoff on my next adventure,” she says. “I can’t stay in one place for too long.”

How many tattoos do you have?

Honestly, I stopped counting a long time ago. It’s becoming all one big tattoo now at this point. I don’t have much room left which is pretty depressing. How much I’ve spent is beyond me. I don’t think I wanna know.

What was your first tattoo?

Two stars, one on each hip. I got that done in Canada. But I’ve since got them covered up.

The heart tattoo on your midsection is an attention grabber. What’s the story behind that?

It goes with the two sparrows on the side holding a thread. They’re sewing together the heart. It’s about mending a broken heart. I thought it was a cool idea. It signifies really having my heart broken and being able to mend it back together each time. It’s not about any specific boy, I suppose. It’s a reminder that no matter how bad it is, it will always heal sooner or later.

What kind of guy are you into?

A guy with tattoos. Otherwise, I might feel weird because I have so many. And he has to have a good personality. No Jersey Shore meatheads.

Have you ever kissed a girl?

Yes. I was drunk. It’s not for me.

Have you ever had sex in a car?

Yes, but not while it was moving.

If you could make out with anyone in the world, who would it be?

I love James Franco. It’s a tie between him and John Krasinski. The office is my all-time favorite show and I love Jim Halpert.

Do you like tongue rings on guys?

I think it depends on the guy.

What is your drink of choice?

Whiskey, specifically Jameson.

Favorite TV show growing up?

Hey Arnold!

What’s your favorite Quote?

“This too shall pass.”

What is the first thing you’d do with a million dollars?

I’d probably buy a car or plan a trip to England.

Tell us a secret no one knows?

I secretly wish that I could sing. I don’t’ really know If I can, because I’m too shy to even sing in front of myself. Deep down, I kind of want to be a musician.

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– Story by Victor Gomez, photos by Christopher Cardwell