Leaderboard

You should be going in with general ideas, images and some loose reference material. They should be proficient in layout, design and provide honest and realistic feedback. Between their historical evidence and ability to communicate their vision you'll have to decide which makes you more comfortable with how to proceed.

I would be happy also, Hollie! A very attractive artwork.

Don't do words. Far too literal for my taste. Think about the things that brought you two together, things you enjoy as a family, and have something designed around that. It's a sweet idea, but images make for much better tattoos.

I love the concept! This is really quite sweet. I’m kinda with @SStu on the text part. You could always have the text added later, somewhere else but part of the fun of getting a tattoo (in my opinion) is sharing the story behind it and some sentimental mystery is always good. I love the leaves, I just finished a half sleeve on Tuesday so depends if you’re planning on wrapping it or just doing the front of your arm.. I did both (ouch for the back but worth it).. you could introduce a bit more of the tree, eg where the branch is attached... I guess the trunk? To also represent stability and the roots of your family - just a thought. Goodluck, again super sweet thought and concept is great 😊

Welcome! Bacanu looks quite capable from this instagram page. You should do quite good with him. Congrats! You'll find several historical threads here that discuss text as tattoos. My take on it = find an event or memory that brings you to a favorite feeling about your family. Go for the images and drop the text. Tattoos don't have to be literal for the casual stranger.

The answer could be one of several possibilities. Was your Mom's earlier work by him done in the same style, or is the tattooist trying to learn new things? Has he developed a personal "habit" that inhibits production? Any number of factors could change how any "artist" performs. I'd find someone new, myself. Where are you located?

Recently got my first tattoo in the US. Originally from New Zealand where I have three others. Super happy with the result, two sessions 15/16 hours total. Done at stained skin in Columbus Ohio. Excuse the swelling on the inside and outside of my bicep, that shits painful LOL.