Today we’d like to introduce you to Chelsea Catlin.
Hi Chelsea, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey to entrepreneurship grew naturally from my professional background in the legal field. Over the years, I have worked in several legal environments, including private law firms, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, TennCare, and currently with the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services. Through those experiences, I saw how important it is for people to have access to services that are professional, dependable, and convenient—especially when they are handling important or time-sensitive documents.
That inspired me to become a commissioned notary and launch Catlin Legal & Notary Services. I wanted to create a business that combined my legal support experience, attention to detail, and passion for helping others. Because I understand that people cannot always rearrange their schedules or travel to an office, I also offer mobile notary services throughout Nashville and surrounding communities.
I am still in the early stages of growing my business, but I am proud of the foundation I have built. Each new client, referral, and opportunity has reinforced that I am creating something valuable. My goal is to continue expanding my reach while providing every client with reliable, convenient, and personable service.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not always been a smooth road. One of my biggest challenges has been building a business while working full-time and managing the responsibilities of everyday life. Starting a business requires much more than simply offering a service—I have had to learn about branding, marketing, pricing, client communication, and how to make my business stand out, all while working with a limited startup budget.
I have also lived with lupus since I was 12 and received a kidney transplant in 2016. Those experiences have taught me resilience, patience, and how to keep moving forward even when life does not go according to plan. Some days require more balance than others, but I have learned not to let difficult circumstances stop me from pursuing something meaningful.
Growing a new business takes time, and building visibility and trust within the community has been a process. However, each challenge has pushed me to become more resourceful, confident, and intentional about the type of business and reputation I want to build.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Through Catlin Legal & Notary Services, I provide professional general and mobile notary services throughout Nashville and surrounding communities. I assist clients with notarizing documents such as affidavits, acknowledgments, powers of attorney, and other personal or business documents that require a commissioned notary. My mobile service is especially helpful for clients who may have demanding schedules, transportation limitations, or simply prefer the convenience of having a notary come to them.
My background in legal support is a major part of what sets me apart. Having worked in several legal environments, I understand the importance of accuracy, confidentiality, professionalism, and attention to detail. I also want my clients to feel comfortable, respected, and informed throughout the process. Although I cannot provide legal advice, I can make the notarization experience feel organized and less intimidating.
I am most proud that I took the steps to turn my experience and skills into a business of my own. I am building a brand that reflects who I am: dependable, personable, detail-oriented, and committed to serving my community. My goal is not simply to stamp a document, but to provide a reliable service that clients feel confident recommending to others.
Any big plans?
My plans for the future are centered on growing Catlin Legal & Notary Services into a trusted and recognizable resource throughout Nashville and the surrounding communities. I am looking forward to expanding my client base, building referral relationships with local businesses and professionals, and creating partnerships with organizations that may regularly need dependable notary services.
I also plan to explore becoming authorized to provide remote online notarizations, which would allow me to serve clients beyond my immediate travel area and offer even more flexibility. As the business grows, I would like to expand its services in ways that complement my legal support background while remaining focused on professionalism, convenience, and client care.
On a personal level, law school remains one of my long-term goals, with a particular interest in healthcare law. I am excited to see how my education, legal experience, and entrepreneurship continue to connect. Ultimately, I want to build something sustainable that serves my community, creates additional opportunities for me, and shows others that it is never too late to invest in a vision of your own.
Pricing:
- Standard notarization: $15 for the first notarial; Additional notarizations during same appointment are $10.
- Mobile travel fee within 10 miles of Hermitage: $20; travel beyond 10 miles is additional $1.50 per mile.
- Minimum mobile appointment: $35
- Evening or weekend appointments: additional $15
- Same-day or urgent appointments: additional $20, depending on availability
Contact Info:
