Red Octopus needs no introduction. And it probably doesn't even really need my review. Before there was even a yelp, word spread around the DMV that this is THE place for tattoos and piercings. They c... Read More
Red Octopus needs no introduction. And it probably doesn't even really need my review. Before there was even a yelp, word spread around the DMV that this is THE place for tattoos and piercings. They can add my husband and I to their list of happy customers.If you're anything like me, planning a tattoo can take years. My husband and I have wanted to get each other's names tattooed for at least 3 years now. We always said we'd wait until we were married at least. So we walked into Red Octopus one Sunday a few months short of our 1st year anniversary. Names are not uncommon, I know this. But as I sat looking at the popular tattoo fonts in the waiting room area, I became increasingly uneasy. The tattoo fonts were extremely wack. Nothing fit me. Nothing fit us. So, I strongly considered walking out. Leave it to my husband's tattoo artist (Tommy or Tony, I think) to save the day. He asked what we were looking for and what we liked. We showed him a couple of pictures and where we wanted them. "Let me free hand something for you real quick and see if you like it". When he returned, we were both floored with his design and sat there grinning from ear to ear. This was it! It's like the universe was saying, "the time is now!"Tommy/Tony set it up so that we could both get tattooed at the same time. Gene didn't have a client and offered to do mine. This was a great idea in theory as it would save us time. But I simply could not bare the pain without hubby holding my hand. So hubby went first and then it was my turn. Both artists were professional, friendly, and worked quickly. Tommy/Tony made a few jokes about us needing cover-ups. Hubby's artists said they do quite a bit of cover ups regularly. Which sort of amazed me. But he also went on to say we're the first married couple he's seen so I guess that makes sense. My artist, Gene, was just as friendly and tried to make me feel relaxed--which I particularly appreciated because of where I was getting the tattoo. Let's just say I haven't really had another man touch me there since my husband so the professionalism was much appreciated lol. He gave advice, suggestions, and schooled us a bit on tattooes. An all around thorough and enthusiastic artist. I would definitely check him out again at the Landover location.Besides the amazing artistry and professionalism of the employees, the facilities and environment promote safe, clean, and healthy tattooing. I felt welcomed at all points. From decor to cleanliness to service, this is an inviting judge-free space where tattoos bond all that enjoy them. Read Less