I just moved back to the area after a few years away and upon researching tattoo shops near me in Fairfax, I came across Marlowe Ink. I scoured their website, checked out online portfolios and gave them a call. When I called and wanted to see about a consultation I made an appointment to see Jen and had to wait a few weeks to meet her. Once my appointment day came, I headed to the shop to start my new adventure. Upon getting got their neighborhood, the first issue I had was trying to find parking. Figuring out their was a parking lot around the corner took a bit (I am not the smartest of cats) and I proceeded to park and head into the shop. Entering the door and heading up the stairs to get into the shop was easy (although, it is a tattoo shop not a gym, so why so many stairs?) and inviting. I checked in at the front desk and was told Jen would be out in a few minutes This gave me time to check out the portfolio books on the side table. This immediately peaked my interest as they took the time, effort and money to put their portfolios into hard bound books versus pictures just hap hazardly thrown in a binder on the counter.
When Jen came out, she was super friendly and immediately got down to the business at hand which I truly appreciated. we went through my idea for my new ink and she said no problem and we proceeded to go to the front desk and make my appointment. So a couple of things about this process: 1. Do not plan on getting right in to have Jen tattoo you. She has her books scheduled out weeks in advance and for good reason. 2. There is a $100 deposit due in order to schedule the appointment so plan accordingly.
So appointment day comes (I think it was 5 weeks between booking and appointment, so plenty of time if you get cold feet) and I show up to get busy. Jen came out, showed me the stencils, which were perfect and said she needed a few minutes to go set up. While she was doing that, I walked over to the gas station to get a bottle of water as it was going to be a 2-3 hour session. One suggestion for the shop would be to have bottled water available for the customers as it is fairly inexpensive but would be greatly appreciated. Jen then comes out and gets me and we head back to get to work. During the session, Jen was very personable to talk to (Make sure you look around and notice the Kewpie dolls, great posters and most noticeably the selection of music playing thanks to Jen's tattooing roommate). We had a great discussion about her dad (who is a true selfless servant of the American people) and her upcoming personal events. She was detailed in her tattooing, brought out the incredible colors I asked for, and made me realize why no one like getting tattoo's below the wristbone on the back of the wrist (WOW was that tender). The one fix which could be done (NOT JEN's fault) was the ceiling needs to be fixed from the crack (Had plenty of time to stare at it while getting worked on).
After the session, I was impressed with Jen's work, her personality and overall vibe of the shop. I went to the front desk and booked my next appointment (which has already occurred) and scurried on my way.
So to recap: Jen is an awesome artist who has the artistic chops, personality, and flexibility to give you an incredible piece. The shop prices are commiserate with most other shops in the region. Bottled water would be appreciated, the ceiling needs to be touched up (or covered with a poster) and if you don't mind them, the Kewpie dolls are fun to look at and enjoy the music.
I would show the work Jen did on me, but alas, they are for my own personal consumption and not public as this is why I always wear long sleeve shirts. Trust me though, look at Jen's portfolio and then realize, her work exceeds it, which is hard to do. read more