The Motherlode Spring 2024: Women at the Helm

Tattoo Shops in the Annapolis Area… and Why They’re All Amazing By Liza Roe

Unsure of which Annapolis tattoo shop to visit for new ink? Is it your dream to have a “Treat Yo’ Self Day” with your teen that includes getting their ears pierced?* Here’s a line- up of six tattoo and piercing parlors in the Annapolis area. LUCKY BIRD TATTOO They have the most positive Google reviews and that’s because Lucky Bird Tattoo has been inking Annapolitans the longest...since 2009. Lucky Bird Tattoo has artists who specialize in covering up existing or old tattoos and they do microblading. Minimum Age: 16-17 with parent/guardian Shop Minimum: $100 Piercings: Yes Appointments: Yes Walk-ins: Yes, but appointments are preferred. ORANGE TATTOO COMPANY Since 2010, Orange Tattoo Company has been taking pride in providing “a personal, unforgettable client experience,” according to their website. Having an artist who is a decent conversationalist or, better yet an unsanctioned therapist, is a necessity for many body art patrons. Online reviews rave that artists are friendly, personable, and honest. Minimum Age: 18 or older Shop Minimum: $60 Piercings: No Appointments: Yes, contact the shop. Walk-ins: Yes DAPPER DOG TATTOO Dapper Dog Tattoo on Maryland Avenue is an LGBTQ- owned business that opened its doors in May 2021. If you’re decisive and committed, check out this studio, where priority is given to walk-ins. They call their place, “the friendliest tattoo shop in historic Annapolis” and their online reviewers agree. Minimum Age: 18 Shop Minimum: N/A Piercings: No Appointments: Yes, contact the artist directly. Walk-ins: Yes

LOVE STRUCK TATTOO At Love Struck Tattoo, you’ll find a woman-owned studio with mostly female artists. If feminism is your priority, Contact the artist directly to make your experience more personalized and book an appointment. Check out their events page to find out how you can have a tattoo party with 10 of your closest friends. Minimum Age: 18 or older Piercings: No Shop Minimum: N/A Appointments: Yes, contact the artist directly. Walk-ins: On occasion; appointments are recommended. RED OCTOPUS TATTOOS Family-owned and operated, Red Octopus Tattoos’ Annapolis location opened in January 2021 but the company has been in business in other locations for over 30 years! They have five locations and offer military, police, and first responder discounts. Custom designs and walk-ins are welcome. Minimum Age: 15-17 with parent/guardian Piercings: Yes, but walk-in only. Shop Minimum: $80 Appointments: Yes, contact the shop. Walk-ins: Yes, if smaller than an index card. OXBLOOD INK 2014 brought Severna Park’s OxBlood Ink to life. Four gentlemen make up the team of artists at this shop and they’re all best friends; plus the owner is a Maryland native, so you’ll feel right at home. Minimum Age: 18 or older Piercings: No Shop Minimum: $80

Appointments: Yes, contact the artist directly. Walk-ins: Yes, but calling ahead is advised.

Still unsure of who to trust with your ink work or potential piercings? Everyone on this list offers free consultations. *If your piercing partner is under 15-years-old, head over to Claire’s in the Westfield Annapolis Mall.

94 | THE MOTHERLODE

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