Can't say enough good things about this place. Missy is the best piercer I've ever been to. She is great at making you giggle and calming your nerves. She did such a great job on my rook piercing. I felt so relaxed and actually had fun, because she put me at ease and made me feel very safe. She was very thorough with explaining her process. I 1000% recommend. read more

AWFUL!! He poked my the back of ear with the needle (it left a mark) and they didn't know what they were doing. One of my piercings took over 10 minutes and he told me after he did the piercing that he usually tells people that he wouldn't do this piercing because it's so tough and that he had only done it on two other people, yet he still decided to do it. Also, he told me afterward that he used numbing cream that I didn't ask for. They gave me no aftercare instructions and it was just an overall bad experience. I recommend going somewhere else if possible! read more

I'm basing this review on my recent experience getting a piercing along with my daughter, aged 8. I opted to go to a professional tattoo / piercing artist over a mall place for ear piercing after reading about the superior knowledge, skill and dedication to cleanliness that the pros offer. These guys did not disappoint. Almost Famous does not do appointments for piercings. We arrived soon after they opened, the shop was already hopping but they got to us quickly. They were very organized and diligent with respect to forms and releases - I had to present my daughter's birth certificate for them to do her piercing - and then our artist got to work. He was extremely precise in his preparations, carefully unwrapping and laying out tools and then sterilizing the area, and doing a very careful placement of the mark on my ear which I then reviewed before he went forward. When it was my daughter's turn he did all the same steps, this time talking animatedly to her and assuring her as she had some nerves. At one point she touched her ear after he had sterilized it and he started again with the sterilization procedure - I was very impressed. He went into detail with us to understand the aftercare instructions. I bought the recommended aftercare spray and have found it to be a very soothing, cool treatment each time applied. My daughter is thrilled with her new earrings; they look lovely. The whole thing came out to $130 for the two piercings (her earlobes and a single helix for me), the aftercare solution and a tip. I highly recommend going to Almost Famous for your piercing. Let the pros take care of this for you. read more

I WISH I COULD GIVE A NEGATIVE 10 BECAUSE I CURRENTLY AM ABOUT TO CALL 911 TO COME PICK ME UP. I got my ear pierced in July. It is currently almost October. It wasn't even cartilage. They put in a hoop and did not warn me that this should never ever be a starter earring. I took extremely good care of it. Washing it three times a day and did all the precautions. It is still so fucking infected and I can't figure out how to take this damn earring out. Literally no fucking idea and I've watched about ten YouTube videos and it still won't come out. I need help and I need it immediately. I can't take this pain any longer. NEVER GO HERE AND I MEAN NEVER. I WANT TO SUE THIS PLACE FOR MY ALMOST AMPUTATED EAR AND I AM NOT BEING DRAMATIC. read more

Almost Famous Tattoo & Piercings - Me crying for the eighth night in a row because I can't fall asleep because of how much pain I'm in. - Tattoo Near Me - Portland, Maine

Went here with two friends to get small tattoos. We called ahead to see if they were accepting walk-ins and were told someone was accommodating walk-ins until 10PM - on a first come/first serve basis. We showed up about 30 mins later and were told that, even though no one else was there to get tattooed, they were "booked" until 10PM. We also couldn't make an appointment for another day because "all artists make their own hours" and he couldn't make appointments for anyone else. He also couldn't make an appointment with us because he was busy all day tomorrow. Also an FYI, for anyone else wanting to go get a tattoo with a friend or two, he told us that due to Covid they would only take one of us in at a time and the others would have to wait outside, even though we'd all be getting one. Overall just a very confusing situation and we obviously left pretty bummed out. read more

My sister and I had a really amazing experience here! It was our first time getting tattoos and a friend of ours recommended this place, so we went in for a walk in. The wait wasn't too long and the artist Sam was really helpful with placement suggestions, answering questions, and letting us stencil a few spots. Great dude and the tattoos came out incredible, despite us being nervous and squirmy. Also the had Florence and the Machine playing in the background the whole time so that was a bonus. This is definitely the place to go for a quality experience. Thanks Sam!!!! read more

Almost Famous Tattoo & Piercings - Post tatt - Tattoo Near Me - Portland, Maine

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Thanks for the crabs, Adam! Seriously, my cousin and I had a great time in the shop with you today getting our matching happy crab tattoos. They are adorable and exactly what we were looking for. It's great to find a shop that takes pride in their cleanliness and matches the sterilization and disinfection process that I take as a hygienist! We love that everyone in the shop was down to earth and not snobby about a couple girls showing up as walk ins, wanting something small and simple. The work was perfection, we couldn't be happier. Thanks again! (Pics to come soon) read more

Almost Famous Tattoo & Piercings - Cousins getting crabs from Adam! - Tattoo Near Me - Portland, Maine

I have gotten all of my tattoos from here but I will not come back here. I moved out state and when I came back for a visit I wanted to get another tattoo. I've tried calling numerous times to schedule an appointment but every time I call they say I need to send an email to make an apt. I sent numerous emails and they take WEEKS to get back to you. I called again and spoke to a different artist and finally go in. When I landed in Maine I drove over there with the work that I wanted to get done just for the artist to tell me he forgot he was off the day I was suppose to come in which was the next day. He said there is no other time to get me in. I do understand it's hard for me to get in since I live out of state but their scheduling process is terrible! But, if you do get in I promise you won't be disappointed. They do a great job with tattoos and it's worth it, just wish they had a better scheduling system.! read more

I've gone here a few times now too get my nose, cartilage and rook piercing done. Missy was very friendly and put up with me being very nervous! Still follows strict covid guidelines which I like. Will hopefully return too get another piecing and maybe even a tattoo! read more

Almost Famous Tattoo & Piercings - Rook and cartilage - Tattoo Near Me - Portland, Maine

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Just got my first tattoo about a week ago at Almost Famous by Adam. When I first walked in, it was super busy, which is definitely a good sign. I went into the studio just to inquire about pricing, availability and talk with a tattoo artist about designs. Adam immediately greeted us and when I first started talking about the tattoo I wanted (which would be a side rib tattoo), he quickly and honestly told me that as my first tattoo, that is one of the most painful spots and to probably consider getting it done somewhere else. We talked about a few other ideas, before I knew it, within the next 2 hours, I had a tattoo on my wrist. Post tattoo, Adam clearly explained how to take care of the tattoo, and it's looking great. Everyone was really friendly, the environment was very welcoming and it the excitement and fun of getting my first tattoo was awesome. There was an older lady getting her first one at the same time so there were good vibes all around. Definitely think I will be getting another one someday. Thanks Adam for a great experience, I love my tattoo! read more

Almost Famous Tattoo & Piercings - Tattoo Near Me - Portland, Maine

My artist was great! He was able to accommodate my walk in and was super nice. He worked fast and was able to work with me to make sure I was safe and happy! I 100% recommend! read more

I went with a friend to get a nose piercing and let me say! It was pretty busy, and the staff worked super hard to get everyone in and out. My piercer's name was Rae, I believe, and I appreciate her enthusiasm, kindness, and professionalism. While it did hurt a bit, it was a smooth, comfortable experience that I would recommend to anyone who is in the Portland area and thinking about getting pierced. Because of COVID, the number of customers allowed in the shop was limited, there was a sanitizing station set up, and everything was constantly sanitized after each customer. I don't think my experience could have gone better. read more

I called, and The place said we needed ID, any kind. We drove 45 minutes to be told we needed a birth certificate for our 15 year old to get a nose piercing. With businesses having such trouble staying afloat I see no reason to patronize one that can't even tell you what's needed in order to receive the service you asked for. The person I spoke to when I got there said it was a state of Maine law, but I patronized another tattoo place later in the day and a school ID was fine, so Almost Famous also lied to me. Go to a place that knows what it's own business is about, which rules out this one! read more

Went in to get some after care for a nose piercing and even though I didn't get the piercing there, one of their piercers spent 15 minutes talking to me about my piercing and different care techniques. Super nice staff, looked well kept inside and even had open parking spots right out front. Definitely would consider coming back here for additional work or piercings based on my brief experience and also the positive feedback I see here! read more

Got my ears and nose pierced here, such an extremely pleasant experience and I hope to come back :-)

Lost a stud from my nose while visiting Portland, and I'm so happy to have found Almost Famous. I was lucky to get Missy's help putting in a new piece of jewelry that was way better than what I had lost. Really such a delightful team in a nice shop. read more

My roommates and I all got piercings here over the last two days. Both piercers were helpful and really nice. I got pierced by missy, she created such a safe and calming space I fully intend to go back again and again. read more

I had a super wonderful experience tonight at Almost Famous. Came in with a friend on a whim to get some piercings. I chose to pierce my forward helix, and she decided to have her nose repierced. Missy, our piercer was so fun, cordial, professional, knowledgeable and friendly. I seriously can't rave about them enough! Missy was so thorough and patient while prepping us to be pierced and made us feel so comfortable. The whole ordeal was seamless, the shop was spotless, and I will definitely be returning for all future piercings. read more

Sam is the best tattoo artist I could have asked for. He has taken everyone of my ideas and made them better than I thought possible. And Missy is the best and sweetest piercer I've had! read more

I came here with my best friend to get tattoos and they were both done by Adam. He was absolutely hilarious and made the whole experience awesome for us. We'll definitely be back soon! I got exactly what I wanted for the price that I wanted. read more

Almost Famous Tattoo & Piercings - Tattoo Near Me - Portland, Maine

Went here to get my ear lobes pierced (third holes) and had a great experience. Missy was so friendly and was very thorough in her explanation of what she was going to do/what the process is like. Very reasonably priced and there was no line when I arrived. Would definitely recommend this place! read more

My experience at Almost Famous was incredible! I got my second earlobe piercing on both sides. My piercer, Missy, was kind, funny, and knowledgeable. All the tools she used were sanitary. At first I was a bit nervous, but Missy quickly put me at ease, and made my experience very enjoyable. For any other piercings or tattoos I decide to get in the future, I will make it a point to go back to Almost Famous. read more

I've been thinking about getting my ear cartilage pierced for literally years. I have four earlobe piercings and had my nose done years ago, so I kind of knew what I was in for, but that horrible "I am gonna pass out" feeling that always came after my piercings (and any other needle-related event) was too horrible to fathom. After walking out of TWO other piercing establishments recently, I decided to visit "Almost Famous" right near my home. I told Missy, who met me as I entered, that I just wanted to talk about it and reduce my anxiety. Not only did she answer all of my questions, she explained that my blood sugar probably plummets in reaction to the "shock" and that she had candy to help with that. That did it! I chose my earring, consulted with Missy about proper placement, and stuck that lollipop in my mouth. It was so easy, with very little pain, and I love the way it looks. Thanks so much! The patron waiting outside the door congratulated me on my way out, and said he "loves it when the older generation gets stuff done." Yeah. Me too. read more

I came here with an emergency situation and needed a very specific piece of jewelry. The boy at the front desk was extremely kind and helpful. I feel like usually people in piercing shops can be dismissive and lack customer service skills, but this guy was great at answering my questions and made me feel welcome. the jewelry selection was nice and well priced, and they custom fit it to my nose. Despite my request, the piercer made it too loose. He said he did it to accommodate swelling but I wanted this jewelry long term and asked him not to do that. He did it anyway, which I thought was unprofessional due to the fact that he did warn me but did not respect my personal decision. Overall it was a good experience but I am annoyed that my piercing is too loose and ended up throwing away the jewelry. read more

I love this place. I've gotten 3 tattoos there so far, all done by Sam, and have another few in the works. It's super conveniently located, they have a small lot for parking (I've always managed to find a space), the guys are always super friendly, and it's just fun in there. Highly recommended! read more

My sister and I came in today for matching tattoos, and they came out PERFECT!!! The guys in there are so friendly and great artists, don't believe that other review, she must be a HATER!! I will come here from now on!! read more

We brought our 10 yr old daughter to get her ears pierced for the first time. Cat was AMAZING! My daughter was nervous and Cat put her at ease and explained everything that would happen and what she would use to do it. After a little time(on my daughters part) we got to the "it didn't even hurt" part of the visit. She hasn't stopped smiling. We would recommend Cat for piercing without reservation. She is kind, professional, warm and welcoming. If she can make a nervous 10 yr old comfortable you should be fine. read more

The guys were so nice when I came in to get my ear pierced. They were helpful on explaining how to clean it and how long to leave it in. The place was very clean and Halloween-ish I loved it so much. I see me going there to get my first tattoo read more

These guys are top notch! Friendly and make you feel like family. Jared is an amazing artist and does incredible work. If you are in maine this is the place to go. I have several tattoos from different shops and by far had the best experience ever. I will not only be back, I will tell everyone to visit you for amazing ink and a great time read more

I got my first "real" piercing (the first done without a piercing gun in the mall...) here and they were super friendly. I was extremely nervous, but the piercer ( I think his name is Joe, forgive me if I'm wrong!) explained the whole process, and told me what he was doing. The process was literally as painless as it could have been and I was in and out of the shop in like, ten minutes. A great experience! I actually went back to get another piercing like three months later, from someone who used to be terrified of needles. Thanks Almost Famous for helping me get over that!! read more

Adam was great! Best friend and I got septagrams. It was her first tattoo and he was really cool about it. Would totally return if I find myself back in Maine. Thanks! read more

I got my first tattoo here in January 2014 by Sam. He was super patient with me and pep talked me through the whole thing. Almost two years later, it still looks solid read more

The piercer Kat was phenomenal. I came here with my boyfriend to fix a botched earlobe piercing he got done at Pins and Needles. She was horrified with it and said it was the worst she had ever seen. She was so helpful, and changed the jewelry so the piercing could breathe, and cleaned the area well. She was very friendly and knowledgable, and the place itself was very clean and professional. She answered all of our questions and concerns clearly, and was very experienced in what she does. I am extremely impressed with this shop and will not go anywhere else. read more

TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE!!!! My friend and I waited 4 hours to be ignored and argued with. The worst customer service! We came for walk in tattoos at 4pm and were told the wait was about 1.5 to 2 hours, so we sat inside and waited. Sam the tattoo artist actually tried to help a new walk in before us after seeing us wait for him for 4 hours! He then argued with my friend tried to talk her out of her tattoo request and insulted her current tattoos!!!!!! When he went to "get ready" for us we saw him at the computer working on someone else's design!!!! We were so disrespected and embarrassed that there was no way we would give them any money let alone tattoo us. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME OR SUPPORT THIS BUSINESS!!!!!! read more

I'm SO happy that I brought my 10 year old daughter here to get her ears pierced for the first time! We were greeted when we walked in, waited briefly, then Joe took my daughter's birth certificate & my ID to confirm that she was indeed my kiddo. :-) I knew right there we were off to a good start when all the right paperwork & consent forms were signed. Joe prepped his work area with sterile & brand new, still wrapped earrings, of which my daughter was even able to choose her own color! Stainless steel, cute studs were used. He turned on some cartoons for distraction and proceeded to clean & mark her ears. He measured the points to pierce & then even double checked with me to make sure I liked where they were placed. He let her know when he was about to pierce & it was over before she could even say ouch! Really though, she didn't shed a tear! Not one tear! She impressed me! Her second lobe was even easier & she even smiled through it all! Awesome, awesome, amazing work done by Joe! I'm planning to bring my other daughter here when she turns 10 and is allowed to get her ears pierced! Thank you a million times! ~ From one super happy momma! read more

I've been coming here for years now. I'm a big fan of the male piercer, as I've had my tragus, helix, and soon to be rook from him. He's always been very patient with my ear's poor healing process and helps me with whatever comes up. As for the girl piercer, I've only had one experience with her. She changed my helix stud to a hoop but put in a 16g (instead of an 18g) and my piercing developed a horrible bump that took a long long time to go away. Joe apologized for the incident and I wasn't very upset because my piercings don't usually heal well anyway. I'm not familiar with the tattoo aspect of Almost Famous but I'm extremely comfortable getting piercings here! read more

This review is strictly in regards to the piercing aspect. I was pierced here (nose) and the piercer was extremely friendly and informative. Everything went smoothly and I was impressed by the atmosphere. After the piercing was complete, the position seemed a little low on my nostril, but he is the professional, so I trusted him. I went back 2.5 months later to purchase a hoop and have him place it. I wanted (still want...) a snug hoop, not a big thing sticking out of my face like a pirate, which I made clear. He showed me the second-to-smallest hoop. I said it looked like it would be too big and explained what I wanted. He said that is the best I'm going to get and that the smallest wouldn't fit (I think it would've, but whatever). It was only $5 so I figured what the hell, I'll try it. He put it in and YEP, it was HUGE. Like, I could actually stick a pen through the gaping space of the hoop sticking out of my face. I was polite, but honest, and told him it was not what I envisioned and I really wanted a smaller one. He said I could try Hot Topic (??), but the quality wouldn't be as good (no sh&t). Then he said (verbatim): "well...sorry you're not pleased". Huhh?! What kind of customer service is that? I was not snotty or rude. I was polite, but trying to figure out a solution. Like, maybe special order something? Or suggest re-piercing it? (I should mention that he commented on the low placement of the piercing, then I reminded him that he pierced it...). Overall, I will never return to this establishment for a piercing. He may be great at his job and simply had an off day when he pierced me, and these things happen. However, I consider him an artist, and am sad that he would not want to take pride in his art and fix it for me (btw, this is not about money. I would gladly pay for any reasonable option presented to me.) But he could not have cared any less, and that is why he gets 1 star. read more

Got my forward helix pierced here about 6 weeks ago and was so pleased with it. The piercer explained thoroughly what she was doing the whole time and aftercare procedures. Last night my piercing fell out and hearing the horror stories about cartilage piercings closing up or becoming infected, I kept the piece that fell out in a ziploc bag and brought it with me to the parlor as soon as they opened the next day. The piecer, Joe, was extremely friendly and accommodating. He explained how it most likely happened and what made it fall out, put it back together for me, and explained how to take care of it again as it would most likely be irritated and swollen. I am so happy with the friendly and helpful service, everyone who worked there had a smile on their faces. I will definitely be recommending this place to everyone! read more

a friend and i from new jersey came here on a whim and were not disappointed! the staff were all extremely friendly and professional, making her and i feel comfortable throughout the both procedures and gave simple but effective aftercare directions. the shop was the cleanest i've ever seen and their prices were very reasonable (especially for the portland area where minimums typically run about $100) i paid $50 for my small tattoo and my friend paid under $50 for her nose piercing. all in all, i would highly recommend this place especially if you're nervous about a first tattoo/piercing, you'll be glad you did! read more

I called and scheduled what I thought was an appointment for Sunday afternoon. When I went in the tattoo artist said, Adam, said he was all booked up for the afternoon. I explained to him just like I explaind to the guy that made the appointment that I had traveled up from Massachusetts to get this tattoo with my sister. Adam said he would call after he consulted with the next person to get a tattoo how long it would take and when he could fit us in that day. He never called. Needless to say this was terrible service and I would never recommend a tattoo shop that just pushes aside patrons that travel a long way to go to a specific shop. I'm extremely unimpressed. read more