Simply amazing and unforgettable! Got my first ever tattoo with Orly and what he gave me was greater than I had expected/hoped for! I reached out to him and his booking manager over IG and it was a super easy process to do. The day of my appointment, I was super nervous! Orly is super personable, calm, and friendly. He asked what I had in mind and if I had any pictures to go off of and he went from there. He got some assistance from Bong, who was a guest artist that week and I couldn't have been more thankful! The art he gave me is beautiful and I'm still in awe that it actually happened. I'm definitely coming back to finish my sleeve. 10/10 would recommend to anyone! read more

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Humble Beginnings Tattoo Studio is hands down my favorite tattoo studio in the Bay Area. From the moment you walk in, you feel like you're among your people--they make you feel like family. My first visit was for a partial cover-up that transitioned into a tribal tattoo. I researched very carefully because I was intentionally seeking women tattoo artists who specialize in tribal work. The story I'm telling through my tattoos matters deeply to me, and respect for symbolism is essential. That search led me to Mel. After seeing her work, I booked a consultation--and she more than lived up to her reputation. In fact, she exceeded my expectations so much that I returned to have the tattoo extended straight down my spine (which is AWESOME!!!) My long-term project is to have women tattoo artists visually gift my life story in Polynesian and Filipino tribal styles across the entire right side of my body. While I also proudly wear tattoos by male artists on the other side--chosen just as intentionally--I want this side to honor women artists who truly understand and respect tribal symbolism. Mel is absolutely among the best. A few weeks ago, I returned during Humble Beginnings' Black Friday flash sale and got a rose tattoo on my arm--this time by Kim. She did such an incredible job that I'm already planning to go back to her for a rose half-sleeve. I'll also be returning to Mel to continue work on my leg and complete another section of my side. Every time I'm in the studio, I find myself watching the other artists work and feeling completely inspired. Their talent is next-level. Honestly, I'm tempted to get tattooed by every artist there! As long as I have canvas for it! Every artist at Humble Beginnings is incredibly skilled, and having their work represented on your body is absolutely worth it. If you're looking for artistry, intention, and a studio that truly feels like home--this is the place. read more

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I went here after looking at Google and Yelp reviews. JR is who ended up helping me. He is very thorough and wanted to meet prior to chat about everything. After making the appointment he reached out about 5 days prior to the appointment to send me a sketch/work up of what we discussed. I was initially scared because it didn't look anything like I imagined nor like what I thought we had discussed. Then he re-worked the sketch even asked me for more examples, noted that if it wasn't right for me then it wouldn't be right in general He did an amazing job and its super detailed and unique. Blue-ish plumeria flowes on an ornate stem between my shoulder blades. read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - The picture really does it no justice and it's right after it was done so a bit red and swollen. - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

What can I say, I was so honored to get a tattoo done by the man, the myth the legend Orly. I have been waiting to get something done for years that represented me, my wife, and kids. Orly was able to help me create something more than what I envisioned. I had heard, but know now know, Orly is the best at what he does and does it fast! I think most places would have taken two sessions to do my back. But one sitting. (about 5 hours) It was one of the most painful things to get done but Orly, the people, and vibe of the shop helped out a lot. I would recommend this shop to any friends and family. Most of my family has gotten work done at this shop. It's because everyone does great work and it's done by good people. Already thinking about the next one! read more

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Fantastic job on flash tattoo day. I decided to become the only person to get the impala logo. The staff is very welcoming and the atmosphere was inviting. I was invited to get pizza and drinks in the back and got to look at all the art on the wall. My artist TJ did great work to ensure attention in the details and the healing process went smoothly. Overall, I would recommend coming here for your next piece! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - 408 day designs - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

This the best tattoo shop I've ever been! It's super clean, and the people are incredibly nice, friendly, and welcoming. They even offered me drinks every time I went there. I truly felt like I was part of their family. And also a big thank you to Braddah Jordan for blasting my neck and giving me an amazing neck piece! read more

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I had the honor and privilege to get my Tattoo done by Orly yesterday and I couldn't be more happy. Been waiting for many years to cover up the tattoo I got when I was 16 and Orly did an amazing job. I highly recommend HB to everyone. The place is clean and and has a great vibe All of the artists there are friendly and fantastic. read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Before and after - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

I first noticed Humble Beginnings Tattoo after getting my haircut next door. When it came time for my most recent tattoo I called to schedule an appointment. They connected me with an artist that was available the day I wanted to have my tattoo done and it was on a Monday. Lanii asked me to send her the art that I had in mind and even accommodated me earlier in the day. She was ready before I got there and did an amazing job on my tattoo. The lines are so clean and she has such a light touch. I had not peeling and hardly any redness. When one of my friends was looking to get a tattoo, I sent her to Lanii and Lanii took amazing care of her. Her tattoo turned out beautiful and both of our tattoos had very deep meaning to them and Lanii understood the importance and respected it. read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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finally finished a sick seagoat tattoo from gonzoe here - i started this project around april/may 2021, took a 1.5 year hiatus , but then got back to chipping away this year in april. my last session was earlier this month! the placement of my tattoo was definitely a challenge for gonzoe, but he executed it so well! he was even able to blend the seagoat with my existing leg piece, which i appreciated. scheduling with gonzoe was pretty easy, i never had an issue. he's also a pretty funny and chill dude, you'll definitely enjoy working with him. i got a lot of painful spots done (my shin, my knee, the back of my knee) but he was very nice about it and listened to me whenever i needed to take a breather. he also has some pretty dope vegetarian/vegan food recommendations! haha this shop always has the best music playing, it helps a lot especially when you're in physical pain. the layout is all open and out there, but if you are getting a more intimate area tattooed they do have those foldable dividers available. everyone here is so friendly! everyone hypes each other up here, the vibes are so good. i've observed a lot of people during my sessions who's gotten some sick work from all the other artists here. parking is somewhat limited but the times i've gone i've been able to find a spot nearby the shop (lucky me) read more

I knew what I wanted my first tattoo to be. To represent my heritage I, wanted the traditional Filipino sun. I contacted my artist, Jeff and right out the gate he was so nice and respectful. He wanted to get to know me more and why I wanted to get this tattoo and he said he wanted my tattoo to tell a story and if I would like, add that story to the sun. He was patient with me as I try to figure out what my story was and in the long run, we both figured it out the day of my appointment. I went in with my wife and the vibes off this place can make anyone feel at home. All the artists are so chill and so nice as they greet me, even when inked up by Jeff. During my session, I was in pain (cause I wasn't expecting how it was going to be with my first tattoo) but Jeff just kept having a conversation with my Wife and I and just getting to know us more. This is the place that you want your first tattoo to be in as they ensure that everything will be cool. I will for sure be going back to Jeff sooner or later to finish off my forearm sleeve. I apreciate the entire Humble Beginnings family! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Both my husband and I have had many tattoos done by Antwon. AMAZING! Straight clean lines!! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - One of my husbands many from Antwon. - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Easily one of the best (Polynesian/Tahitian) tattoo shoppes in the world. You're probably thinking, "how could you say that, stupid? Have you been tattooed at every shoppe in the world?!" Well, no, is the simple answer to that, but you JUST KNOW, okay?! Geez, that's like saying, "How could you marry one person and say they're the best? Have you been with EVERYONE IN THE WORLD?" Of course you haven't, dummie! That's just gross. My specific artist has, and always will be, Mel. She is a wizard behind the needle. She draws up a nice little top view of the whole piece to make sure you like it, then she does all the little detail to whatever comes to her mind. This might be a little scary for some people who think, "Oh my golly, but that's gonna be there forever, how could you do that without knowing what's coming?!" Because I like to give the artist some freedom, and let them do their art! Be prepared to set your appointment looooong in advance! I set up my third appointment recently, and I average about 2 months in advance for each piece. Trust me, you are gonna loooooooooooooove iiiiiiiiiiiiit!! You'd better, cuz it's gonna be there for the rest of your life! hahahahahaha!! read more

I had a friend continuously try to contact them for a consultation. Calling, drive by and tried to contact them on IG too! He was finally able to get in touch with hbtat2 and the artist was too busy and basically didn't really want to help do a cover up. My friend said he was available anytime the artist could see him.....and nothing! Not even a month later. I get you're a popular shop... but small jobs can easily get you MORE jobs and word of mouth is real! Inkies Tattoo in Fremont was responsive and helpful and will gladly provide the service we are looking for. read more

Nothing but positive vibes here. It was my first tattoo and Jeff made the experience very comfortable. He listened to what I wanted, and inked it perfectly. The process was so gratifying that I can't wait to come back for more. It was all very worth it. read more

Worked with Melissa for my first tattoo. I had been thinking of getting a tribal Filipino tattoo for a few years but didn't commit to it until this year. Melissa made the whole process easy from setting up the consult up til she wrapped my arm up after we were done. I can't be more happy with how it turned out and how it helps me to connect with my culture! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

This place is amazing. They have some top tattooers, friendly staff, best arts on the wall, positive vibe and atmosphere. I will not name any specific tattooers, because they all do good work.. 5 STARS!!!! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Nice and clean plus some bad ass tattooer - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

This review is for Jordan or @jgabrielart on Instagram. I came to Jordan with a script tattoo that I had gotten 10 years ago. A previous shop had given me a bad tattoo experience so I waited a long time to find the right person and shop to fix my first tattoo. Right away from the first consultation, I could tell that Jordan really knew his stuff and he was very professional. We went over quite a few different designs before I settled on one. He was very patient and thorough, he wanted to make sure I really loved it. I can't say enough good things about Jordan and the shop. It's a very welcoming and warm environment which is not very typical for tattoo shops. It's the best experience I've had with getting tattooed. I highly recommend Jordan and Humble Beginnings to anyone who's thinking about getting a tattoo. I had the best experience and left super happy with how my tattoo turned out. I used to look down at my botched tattoo and feel embarrassed and now I look down at the new tattoo Jordan did for me and I'm proud. 100/10 experience overall and I will definitely be coming back and also have told all my friends and family to go here and see Jordan! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Script tattoo by Jordan. Butterflies were done by another shop - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

I got my tattoos from Orly seven years ago and they are beautiful he is an excellent artist and if need some ink go to him.

Came in for my appointment with Alan Pham! Got greeted right away, the staff that was there they were all very nice! Everyone willing to look at each others work and give feedback. They had limited amount of people inside, and everyone was wearing a mask it felt safe being there and very clean. I'm so happy with how my tattoo came out, this was my third one from Alan and I love her so much! The color and everything he chose was perfect and we got to tweak some little things I wanted to change on it color wise. Alan is super profession willing to go over other options with you--he has tons of amazing flash sheets also! Will be back soon to keep filling up the rest of my leg! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

I got some tattoo from Gonzo, very professional and clean love the pieces he tattooed me ! Also appreciate the tattoo shop for being careful with the pandemic and taking all the precautions to keep the costumer safe ! Overall best experience in a tattoo shop for me ! I recommend it ! read more

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I came here with my wife yesterday for her tattoo appointment. Her appointment was with Orly. Super cool guy and easy to talk to. We worked on the tattoo design together, and I thought it came out great. More importantly, my wife liked it too. It would end up on her after all. Lol I totally recommend this place, especially if you like the tribal designs. Also, these folks are super friendly, chill, and on island time (if you know what I mean ). Come, relax, and be amazed by the finished product. read more

So I'm writing this review about Mel. She's awesome! I got part of my arm done a couple years ago and she made my experience so much better than the last person I got tattooed by. She made me laugh almost the whole entire time. I was sitting there for like 3 1/2 hours? Maybe even 4? I found out I'm a bleeder according to Mel. I was so raw by the end of it, I wanted to quit and cry lol. But anyway Mel reassured me that I would be okay. She just kept the conversation going. Like I said she made me laugh almost the whole entire time. I appreciate that. It made me think about the pain less. On another note Mel's work is super amazing. It's nice and clean. She listened to me about cleaning up some parts of my other tattoo and I thought that was cool. Overall, I'm extremely satisfied with my tattoo that Mel did for me. It's been 4 years since I last saw Mel and I can't wait to go back sometime this year. That's the plan. THANK YOU MEL FOR DOING WHAT YOU DO!!! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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Orly from humble beginnings is a real class act. Although he may be difficult to come in contact with, once we exchanged numbers, things ran smooth. I contacted him on instagram. That probably isn't the best platform for getting a hold of him, but once we exchanged numbers, I was able to give him a deposit in person and ended up getting tattooed 2 weeks later. I really respect his craft from start to finish, and this is beyond the tattoo. I bombarded him with many questions about tribals that he always had answers to. I appreciate his explanations to me for a better understanding of this new lifetime commitment of mine. I also liked that he's a family man. Him Being a little older and being a role model we had much to talk about which made my 5 hour experience seem like 30 minutes. I even liked that everyone in the shop joked around--giving the shop that whole barbershop atmosphere. As for the tattoo, I was amazed. I had all these ideas in my head for the past few years, and orly brought them to life! This tattoo is by far my favorite, and although I said it was going to be my last one, I think it's time to fill up the other side! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Super proud of this - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

The Saints made it to the Super Bowl. OMG. So I HAD to get my Saints tattoo. Humble Beginnings came HIGHLY RECOMMENDED (by family and friends), so I made an appointment with Jeff. Jeff gave me sound advice on my tattoo, discussing colors, shading, sizing, etc. He didn't want it to look "cheap" and made sure I was happy with his design before embarking with the needle. The staff was friendly and funny. It made me feel at home. One of the staff members went on a beer run for me and I greatly appreciated that. After 15 minutes under the needle, my tattoo came out AWESOME. Jeff is AMAZING and I highly recommend him. NO PAIN, NO GAIN. WHO DAT. read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - new orleans saints tat by Jeff - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Orly took care of my fiance and gave him one heck of a half sleeve! We first heard of Orly and Humble Beginnings through mutual friends on Instagram and my fiance loves his work. We called and booked an appointment with Orly via text and was advised that it would be a few months out. This is fine as we're sure he's in high demand and a tattoo is not supposed to be an impulse decision. Orly specializes in Polynesian/Filipino tribal designs, which he sketches out by hand on your body. Since this was my fiances first tattoo, he was a bit skeptical of the method, as we thought that a rough sketch on paper needed to be done first. Orly did sketch something out on paper for us, but notified us that it will change depending on my fiances arm. The time then finally came and we were en-route to San Jose filled with nerves. Let's talk about the shop, it's clean, roomy, the staff are friendly and the artist portfolios matched their Instagram/online accounts. Orly and his wife greeted us on arrival then he began prepping the work station. He called my fiance over and hand drew the design on him. My fiance expressed "half sleeve and incredibly detailed" and Orly just gave him the look and said, "sure." Little did my fiance know that he would be in for a world of pain. But I'll get into that later. After drawing the sketch, Orly asked my fiance if we liked it. I thought it looked great but my fiance wanted the design to go up a little higher. Orly then drew boar tusks pointing up his shoulder. His arm literally looked like a shield when everything was done. My fiance explained what he wanted through texting, and Orly crafted the design based off of what he wanted and through getting to know him. They talked for a while before Orly even started tattooing. When everyone was happy, he then started. Orly was very gentle and used a lot of ink in this process. He also numbed my fiance quite a bit. Orly talked and engaged us in conversation to distract him from the pain. Little did I know that he was drawing my fiances story right onto his arm! My fiance is a provider, loving, strong, and family oriented, and that's what the piece represented. The finished piece...what can I say, we LOVED it! The level of detail that went into it was amazing. Orly managed to do all of this with one arm in a sling. He tatted my fiance for about 8 hours, one session with a couple breaks in between. My fiance was so satisfied when he was done and just stared at the finished product in awe. Well worth the trip and price in our opinion. We also tipped him rather generously :) Fun facts: Not only did we hear about Orly through mutual friends, but also when we were in Oahu, HI! Our Uber driver, who's tattooed from neck to hand in Polynesian tribal actually threw Orly's name out when my fiance asked him on a recommedation of artists in California for Polynesian/Filipino tribal designs. Hearing that from an Uber driver in Oahu for some reason sold my fiance. Orly's fanbase didn't stop there. We were flying home from L.A a few months ago and a random person saw my fiances tattoo and asked him if he got it at Humble Beginnings. The tattoo is still very vibrant, granted it's still relatively new (3 months now). There was no bruising and the bleeding stopped after half a day. Again, very gentle. Thank you Orly and the staff at Humble Beginnings! Not only for your work but for putting up with his screaming the last hour Lol! Highly recommended! We'll be back soon to finish the rest of his arm! read more

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I am a first-time tattoo-getter. I'd checked out Humble Beginnings' website for example pieces their artists had done just to first make sure their style matched what I was looking to get done-- something thick and bold. Drove over one day in October to see about asking some questions. There I met Mel. She was more than happy to discuss my desired piece, its sizing and location, the likely cost based on her rate, etc. and did not charge me for her time at all. I made an appointment, put down a $60 cash deposit, and went on my way. I came for my scheduled appointment and had to wait a bit for her to be ready, but then we got started. Mel was very good about asking how I was doing and encouraging me that I was getting through it great; I liked her "bedside manner". Very chill to talk to. Because it was my first tattoo, her rate was generously low. Paid in cash, because that's what they accept at the shop. She gave me some pointers for caring for my tattoo and let me know if I needed any touch-up work to just contact her (I had her business card). Today I actually went in for said touch-up. It was good seeing Mel again, and she doubled over the spots that she felt needed extra ink. She didn't charge anything for the touch-up. Pretty considerate and awesome. :) As for the shop itself, it's in a really cool upstairs location with a porch-like waiting area with a foosball table and bar so you can hang out. The inside where they do the tattooing has a comfortable and welcoming environment, full of wall decorations and paintings to enjoy. There's also a table with a bunch of portfolios full of the various artists' work. Multiple comfy couches to sink into. In conclusion, I have a really positive experience with this place. My roommate who accompanied me is now considering getting a tattoo from them too! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - The entrance to Humble Beginnings tattoo parlor! Mel is one awesome artist! - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

My brother came to this place when he got his piece done by Sefa. I liked it so when I decided what I wanted to get done, I knew exactly where to go and who to book. Sefa is a cool dude and he free hands everything so none of his art work is the same. You tell him what you want and he'll do it for you. He gets booked fast. So if you want a tattoo done on time, try to book with him at least 3 months in advance. Usually you have to put a down payment when you go see him for the consultation. But for me, he let me pay the day I was going to get tatted. $300 for my piece wasn't bad at all. I expected it to be much more that considering the detail and the size I wanted. Anyway, if I ever decide to get another tattoo, especially a tribal one, I am most definitely going back to Humble Beginnings for Sefa. read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - My tattoo by Sefa. Done in September 2011. - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Wow can't believe my last review was eight years ago! I ended up doing a full sleeve of my eight arm with Orly which is still hands down the best out there on poly work. Well ever since my last visit they have moved to a new location. Parking can be tough here. Your lucky if you can score a spot a street parking in front of the business. Otherwise you have to find a spot around the bank. The new place is bigger with more artist I believe. There are nice cool art from all the different artists. So this time around I got approval from my significant other on doing my left sleeve. Now the wife is even gonna do a small piece too! And who else but I set up one with Orly. Like before this guy is booked 3 months ahead so be ready for that wait. This is the price you pay for going with the best! And dam now 8 years later I didn't know how I did my first sleeve before because it's hella hurts more!! As Orly said... we just getting old foo!!! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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I can't imagine getting tattooed gets any better than this. I got tattooed by Jordan for my 18th birthday and he made me feel so welcomed and at home. He shook my hand and talked me through the process; he double and even triple checked my outline and asked me multiple times if this was for sure how i wanted my tattoo before he started. He never made me feel uncomfortable or naive even though this was my first tattoo. I don't intend on getting more tattoos personally but if i ever do this is definitely where i'm going. The first picture was right after he had finished and cleaned me off and the second was taken after three weeks. (Side note: taking a picture of my tattoo looking straigt is difficult if youre not standing a specific way or laying down. I promise it's straight, it's just the way i'm standing that makes it look different) 100% would recommend this shop for anyone looking for a tattoo that includes straight crisp lines and fine detail! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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Got tattooed by Kory Buck. He is truly amazing at what he does. Went in with a picture and he created a piece by far so much better. I truly am happy with my tattoo and everyone who's seen it has said nothing but great things about it. I do plan on returning to get more work done by him. Thanks Kory for an amazing experience for my first tattoo. read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo done by Kory Buck - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

After extensive research, I chose Humble Beginnings for my first tattoo. My tattoo artist was Jr. He designed and implemented a tattoo of a mommy and baby penguin to symbolize my daughter and me; Hawaiian flowers and leaves for my love of Hawaii; and a ruby colored flower (ruby is my birthstone.) I know I drove Jr. crazy with the discussion of the design and placement. He was nice enough to have me come in for three consultations. Jr. was very patient with me and I am very satisfied with my tattoo. I wanted simple and he gave me simple. The pain was not as bad as I thought it would be. Jr. is a great conversationalist and I enjoyed our conversations. I would definitely drive an hour again to San Jose for my second tattoo. Look beyond the minor negative reviews and give this tattoo shop a try and ask for Jr. read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

To do list for today: Get an amazing tattoo done by an amazing artist. // I learned about Humble Beginnings Tattoo from a blogger I have followed for The past couple of years and reached out to them right away. I was scheduled to meet Gonzoe for my consultation. I had read many awesome reviews on this gentleman and had looked up his work and loved it. I went in with an idea that I carried with me for quite a few years. I walked out of my consultation with a brand new image born thanks to Gonzoe. I whole heartedly appreciate @gonzoetattoos feedback, honesty, and ideas he gave to me while being able to keep the special meaning I had with my original idea. A million times THANK YOU for your beautiful talent Gonzoe ! (: The amazing artist himself) read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Almost 2 decades ago my brothers @gchef703 and @lnbg.md got some ink(Filipino tribal) from an O.G. who went by the name Orly out of a shop called Humble Beginnings in San Jose. When I saw his work I knew the next time I'd be getting ink was from @orlycukui. I was still in the Marines at the time and the Corps' policy on tattoos was super anal. Well when I got out of the Corps it was the same shit since most PD's are lame and forbid tattoos that show when in uniform. Fast forwarding to today. ...While I think most police agencies are loosening their stronghold on tattoos and such, I seriously think SBPD was one of the first to allow it in the county. I F*ckin love this place from top to bottom and not many people can say that about their jobs. It took a while to get on Orly's dance card, but I'm absolutely thrilled with his work and I'm pretty sure this ain't one and done. Thank you my guy. It was a pleasure being in your chair and sharing some genuine laughs about family our passion for cars and life in general. See you in a month bro read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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This review is long overdue for Michelle. She mainly does microblading/ombre powder. Michelle was so responsive and friendly with all my questions. I had waited for a few months before seeing her. She suggested a consult prior to the microblading. She was open-minded and answered all my questions so patiently. I was so nervous. She was very gentle and so sweet. A touch up is required about a month or two later. It was easy to book with her. I would recommend this place to others once precautions have been lifted. This local business needs our support! read more

I got tattooed by Mel (melissa) in the San Jose Location. One word to describe her : AMAZING !!! I had a concept in my head that i was trying to bring up to design and i was turned down by a lot of artists not because they weren't capable enough, but because they did not even listen to my entire story. I set up an appointment with Mel and she listened to me and asked me to compile few pictures of how the design might look like to give her an idea. She responded really well and agreed to a session with me. This is where she blew my mind : Mel and I were talking through out the session for a about 3 hours and all she did was listen and ask me questions and we covered a lot of topics ranging from Travel to Spirituality to Family and what not. By the end of the session i was blown away by what she made out of that conversation. She understood my journey from our conversations and who I am today as a person and because most of her work is free hand, she meticulously chose various shapes and forms from her Polynesian style of art and gave meaning, shape and life to the ink i wear. Thank You Mel !!! I will never forget our session..!! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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Got inked up by Yamz. Very Cool dude, place is nice, clean and so is the bathroom which seemed very well kept . It's close by chipotle and a liquor store if you wanted food or snacks between your breaks. Had scheduled for three straight days, first time really so I didn't know if I was supposed to space them out lol but I was driving in from San Diego area so I wanted to try n get as much done. All in all great work from yams read more

I was itching for another tattoo so I went on Yelp to find a credible shop with talented artists. In the past I've gotten some of my tattoos in San Francisco, but now living in San Jose I didn't want to travel that far. Chris Gonzalez tatted my lower leg and it came out fantastic. We still have one more session to go, but already I've received many compliments on it. He did the entire tatt freehand (which is a first for me) and was so kind and patient as it started killing me once we reached the 2.5 hour mark. * I'll provide an update once it's finished. Thanks Chris. read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - By Chris Gonzalez. I love it! One more session to go!!! - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Gonzo, the fucked up tattoo fixer! I had gotten a heart lock on my arm more then 6 months ago and I hated it! I hated how it looked, the shape and regretted getting it. A few weeks ago I wanted to treat myself to getting it fixed. I walked into the tattoo shop and was greeted by Gonzo. I showed him my fucked up piece and showed him a pic of what I wanted. He gave me a consolation, gave him a deposit and set the date. My appointment was in the evening and I LOVED the vibe of the shop and Gonzo's vibe. We talked for a bit to recap and I told him what I wanted but gave him the freedom to do his own thing. As an artist, I knew giving him full control would result In the best tattoo ever. Him and his co workers where making funny jokes through out the night. Later on, it was him and an other guy who was working on a client. They played really good music and vibed out through out my session. Non the less, I'm VERY happy with my tattoo and I don't think I could let anyone tattoo me after seeing Gonzo. I HIGHLY recommend Gonzo! Here's a before (day of the appointment with his free hand design 7/27), a few days after and my tattoo 99% healed (8/2) read more

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Hands down the top Tattoo shop in the Bay. Orly & his crew are always on point from customer service to creative design and consultation. The Tattoos are works of art as they have a real passion for their trade and every customer is treated with respect. I have been coming to HB for 10+ years (40-50 hrs of work done on both arms & chest)and will always choose this shop over any other. The new location is very nice and parking is very good so don't hesitate to check them out! read more

Humble Beginnings Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Great experience with my artist just that communication was kinda rough for booking because i be overthinking and sometimes unclear but great tattoos and all the other artist in the place make it a vibe especially because of how nice everyone is there read more