Here’s some advice from Telisa Swan, owner of Swan Family Ink, for anyone thinking about getting a tattoo.

– Take a shower before you get a tattoo. No artist appreciates a stinky client.

– Do your research. Find the artist who fits your tattoo style and vision just right, has the credentials and experience, and makes you feel comfortable.

– This is a big investment of money, time and your body, so treat it like one.

– Ask yourself, “Is this tattoo something I will still want and love in 20 years?”

– Plan for bigger pieces that fit your body better. Small tattoos don’t age well.

– Avoid tattoo ideas with long quotes and small text. These designs can fade over time as the letters stretch.

– Ask your artist about their blood-born pathogens training and other health certifications they have. Artists will be tickled that you had the foresight to ask about health concerns, and if they get angry instead, that’s probably a red flag.