My First Tattoo Experience

Today was an eventful day for me; a big milestone has taken place.  At 35 years old, against all odds I have finally decided to get at tattoo that is very meaningful to me. See I grew up in the streets of Manila, Philippines and my family and the people around me are pretty traditional, they aren’t accustomed to women getting tattoo or anyone getting a tattoo period. So when I decided to get one and show it to my family they were pretty appalled. Can’t control that part, it something that isn’t common for people.

My first tattoo experience was bitter sweet, because I know people are going to persecute me for having one and yet I am doing something for myself. I picked my own design, and I thought about it for months, and I have never been so sure anything in my life than this. (Well except for my marriage, I am 100% sure of that) Back in the Philippines I have been hanging out at a tattoo place and tattoo artist, we have common friends. So I am not a newbie on picking a good tattoo artist, I would say getting a tattoo in the United States is different than in the Philippines. Here in US if you really want a good tattoo artist and if you really did your research about the work of the artist you want, you’re going to come in the shop, meet with the artist and put your deposit and schedule your appointment. Although people like walking in and just getting someone to do the job (nothing against that),  I still like to pick the artist and not just anyone who’s available.

To continue with my first tattoo experience, I come in and brought cash. Ladies and Gents, you need to tip your artist, this is a must. Come in with cash, if you are short of funds do not do it. I would say I allowed plenty of time so I am not late, remember time is money for every artist you will meet. I accidentally came in 30 minutes early because I was able to find parking downtown fast which does not happen all the time. I am 70% excited and 30% nervous, because I do not know what to expect.  Lucky for me, my tattoo artist does not waste time. He was eating his lunch, finished it and got the stencil ready, never compromise on the placement of your tattoo. If you don’t like it, let it be known. Remember, its your skin, you are the one that’s going to live with it for the rest of your life.a A good tattoo artist will make sure you are comfortable, since it was my first time he slightly dab the needle on my skin and asked how it felt, I really did appreciate that. Everything went well, sometimes people exaggerate the pain. It‘s tolerable, like pricking skin and after everything is done; it’s like having a bad sunburn. I was given care instruction and now I am hoping for the best.

People have different reasons for getting a tattoo, as for me it reminds me of where I am from, who I am and what I live for.