What to expect
CONSULT: Once we book you for a consult, you will meet either in person or over video chat to discuss the details of your design. (Note: cover ups do require an in person consult.) Sam will ask numerous questions to get a feel for what you are wanting and you will be able to artistically collaborate to create your custom artwork. From there an appointment can be made.
BOOKING: Apointments can be made on Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. All appointments start at 10AM as I typically book one client for all day.
DEPOSIT: A deposit is required to hold your place for your appointment(s), but it will come out of the final total on your last session. Larger tattoos will require larger deposits. Please be aware, cancelling last minute, no-showing, etc. can forfeit part or all of your deposit. We understand emergencies and illness happen so be respectful of our time and we will keep the same energy.
BEFORE APPOINTMENT: Prep the area by gently exfoliating and moisturizing leading up to your appointment. To go the extra mile, cut out or decrease your intake of inflammatory foods (processed carbs, dairy, sugar, alcohol, etc) for a few days to a week before. Doing these steps will ensure it hurts less during and after, and heals quicker, smoother, and more saturated.
APPOINTMENT: Sam is a very timely person so she will have her station set up and artwork ready to go when you walk through the door at 10 AM. Upon inspection of the art, clients can make any changes if needed before proceeding. (Please note, major overhauls or a complete changing of ideas may have to be rescheduled to allow for redrawing time.) Once the art is finalized, the stencil is placed. You’ll discuss distortions and make sure it fits your body correctly before beginning. Also at 1:30, you will pause for a short lunch break. Starbucks is a few steps away if you need it!
**PLEASE DO NOT WEAR PERFUME/FRAGRANCE TO YOUR APPOINTMENT**
AFTER: Sam will discuss healing with you and provide aftercare instructions for healing and maintenance, but if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us ASAP. Healing large color or coverups can be more intense than black and gray work so please don’t hesitate to check in with us.
FAQs
Will you send artwork before my appointment?
For a multitude of reasons, artwork will not be sent before the appointment. Sam’s consults are in depth so she can ensure you’ll like what she draws. Having to redraw is rare but can be dealt with if needed.
Why can't I wear perfume/cologne/fragrance?
Sam has health issues that are incompatible with most strong or artificial fragrances. Please wear deodorant, but beyond that, refrain from fragranced self care products (scented lotion, strongly fragranced leave-in hair care, laundry scent beads, scented hand sanitizer, incense, essential oils, etc.). Arriving to your appointment heavily fragranced will necessitate rescheduling. If you’re unsure about a product, feel free to ask!
Can I work out while I’m healing?
You need to wait till the tattoo is healed before going to the gym (or even using home gyms.) Staph bacteria lives on the skin of ⅓ people, and that is not something you want in your tattoo. Cross contamination aside, I also don’t recommend stretching and bending skin that is trying to heal as that can also lead to healing complications.
Is there free parking?
Yes! There is plentiful free parking.
Can we start at a different time?
Typically no. Sam is able to do her best work when her schedule is structured and consistent. The only exception is if you are flying in the morning of our appointment, in which case we can discuss during your consult.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring anything you need to make your appointment go smoother. I encourage you to bring lunch (which can be stored in my refrigerator), snacks, a sweater or comfort item, and headphones. If you are light sensitive, sunglasses may come in handy as well. Please show up in comfortable clothes that allow us access to the area. (If you’re unsure what to wear for a specific location, just ask!)
Can I watch you open the needles so I know they’re new?
Absolutely. While we would never reuse needles, we know it can be a concern, so needles will never be opened before you’re in the chair.
Can you draw up my design for free?
No.
Accommodations
Can we do a quiet session?/Are you a talker?
Because different clients have different needs, Sam is flexible on this topic. She is happy to chat with those that desire it or happy to have a quiet session. That being said, chatting can add time to the session, so if you have a tight budget, a quiet session is recommended to allow us to get more done in a shorter time.
Can I get tattooed if I’m a little sick/just had surgery?
If you’re sick or just had surgery, we will need to reschedule. Tattoos drain your immune system and will make your illness substantially worse if you’re sick, or could cause complications if you’re healing from surgery. Also, tattoo artists don’t have paid sick days, so please don’t share those germs!
Is your shop handicap accessible?
Yes! For those who may need it, there is an elevator, handicap parking, a handicap accessible restroom, and we are able to widen the doorway if you have a wide wheelchair. If there’s something in particular you need, just let us know.
Snacks and water to keep your blood sugar up and your skin hydrated
Pillows of different shapes and sizes with sensory friendly covers to keep things sanitary but comfortable.
A phone/ipad stand so you are able to pass the time watching a show or movie if you so choose.
Brand new fuzzy socks (to keep!) and/or a blanket if you get cold. The A/C can also be adjusted to keep you comfortable.
Our top of the line Medspa chair will ensure you are as comfortable as possible for every tattoo location. No folding chairs here!
Lidocaine spray for pain if needed.
Instant ice packs for your drive home to help with swelling.
Aftercare goodie bag for new clients!
A low stimulation environment. Life may feel chaotic but your time in my studio won’t be!
Quiet sessions available! We can skip the small talk and just focus.