I am genuinely surprised by the overwhelming number of positive reviews Little Needle Tattoos…read morereceives, because my experience was very different.
I recently got a tattoo from Bri to honor my husband, an Army combat veteran who served two tours in Iraq and died by suicide about two years ago. I wanted a sunflower with his initials and shorthand for the number of days we had together. This was not just another tattoo to me.
I explained the design and its meaning in my initial email, then attended the requested consultation. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere felt "too cool for school." Interactions felt forced, and I felt out of place. I joke a lot, sometimes awkwardly, because humor is how I get through difficult things. I wasn't expecting anyone to understand my grief, just to be welcoming and listen.
At the consultation, Bri said she'd prepare drawings and different sizes for my appointment. Two weeks later, none of those options appeared to be ready. She started drawing directly on me instead. Every artist has a process, but why require a consultation and promise preparation if that isn't what happens? My time matters too.
I was also sick on appointment day; symptoms started the night before. With a 48-hour cancellation policy and a $100 cash deposit already paid, I felt pressured to go. I told Bri I was sick before we started, but didn't feel there was much concern.
I found myself explaining the tattoo's meaning yet again. When I mentioned "+2K" for the days I knew my husband, Bri asked, "Is that for running?" She also compared my memorial tattoo to a strawberry tattoo she'd considered for an ex-fiancé after a breakup. I'm not diminishing anyone's relationship, but those situations are not the same. She repeatedly discouraged the number of days, and I eventually settled for just his initials. That was disappointing.
At times she seemed to confuse me with another client, saying, "Oh, you're the one," only for me to correct her. Super welcoming! Much of the conversation was about her own life and Venus being retrograde.
Then a break described as five or ten minutes became roughly 35. I sat alone waiting, without an update. I understand artists need breaks. A little communication would have gone a long way.
**But the biggest problem?** My tattoo was supposed to be CENTERED on the back of my neck. It is noticeably off to the left, despite Bri taking a reference photo. This is permanent. My husband was left-handed, so I guess there's some irony there, but I shouldn't have to find a joke in incorrect placement.
I don't expect special treatment because I'm a widow. I expect preparation, communication, respect for my time, and careful placement. I ignored my gut feeling because this tattoo meant so much to me. Instead, I left and cried in my car.
I wish my experience matched the glowing reviews. Unfortunately, I cannot recommend this shop, and I won't return to have the placement addressed.
