How To Get Your First Tattoo
Getting a tattoo is a major choice in life. Especially your first one. First, before ever even considering getting a tattoo, comes the decision if you are okay with tattoos or not. When you realize, "Hmm, I think I'm okay with tattoos," then comes the thought that perhaps you might actually want one someday. This is followed by hesitation. Little old you? Get a tattoo? You start to entertain the idea and then think, "What on earth would I get?". This is when the advice of your friends and family who do not like tattoos comes in handy, or not.
Among many thoughts to ponder, here are the most popular:
"It's there for life"
"It'll be there when you're old and wrinkly"
"How will you get a job with that?"
After all of that, if you're still thinking about getting a tattoo, you might just actually be ready.
First
Have a friend who is really excited about getting one too. When they decide that they are definitely going to get one, tell them you'll come along for moral support.
Second
Consider the possibility of also getting your tattoo at the same time as your friend. When they say, "You should get one too", say, "I'll think about it."
Third
If you are really thinking about it, don't let the thought make you wimp out. Instead, start really considering that butterfly tattoo that you thought you always wanted.
Then think again about your second and third tattoo choices.
Fourth
When you finally arrive at the tattoo parlor, browse around the standard tattoo selections that they have, but commit yourself inside to wanting that one of a kind tattoo that's always been imprinted in your brain. It's at that point that you'll feel a little safe and secure, thinking that the tattoo artist won't possibly have time to give both of you a tattoo today.
Fifth
While your friend is getting his/her tattoo you have to balance doing two things. First, you have to be there for your friend. If they want to squeeze your hand, let them. But, second, you also have to make fun of your friend. Their initial look of terror should be video recorded or at least a picture or two should be taken. Continue kidding your friend about how much longer they have to go until their tattoo will be finished.
Sixth
When your friend's tattoo is finished, don't listen to a word he/she says about how it felt. Tell the tattoo artist what you were thinking about getting, but warn him/her that you aren't positive that you are ready to go through with it.
At this point, you'll probably become short of breath and have a mixture of worried and excited feelings.
Seventh
Let the tattoo artist put the stencil on you and think about whether you love it or hate it. If you love it, say yes, and get your first tattoo started. If you hate it, walk out the door as quickly as possible.
Eighth
Don't let your friend who was just wincing while getting his/her tattoo make fun of you as you begin to get yours. Take deep breaths and just pretend that there are bees stinging you over and over again in one concentrated area of your body. If possible, close your eyes and try to take a nap.
Lastly
Realize when your tattoo is finished that it wasn't as big a deal as you originally thought. Then, especially if you are a girl, go out and buy clothing that will flaunt your tattoo tastefully.
Bonus Tip
Try to make your tattoo have meaning that will carry with you through the ages. As a violinist, I knew I wanted a treble clef, however, the deeper meaning is in the four notes. My brother, Jonathan, has called me Gaga for his entire life. Doesn't matter that he can pronounce Jessica now, he still calls me Gaga. The four notes in my tattoo spell out my special name from Jonathan.
Your tattoo is beautiful!
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