I have a very collaborative design process! What this means is that I will prepare for the session by looking at your request, gathering some ideas, and possibly starting some sketches. Once we’re together, we’ll finish all the drawing and design together to make sure you love it. It’s much easier for me to collaborate and clarify your vision + listen to your stories while in person! I do not send drawings or designs in advance.

This means my books are currently closed and you can stay updated via Instagram or email newsletters for the next opening! I do not respond to booking requests while my books are closed and do not book via email or dm!

I totally understand that things come up and I try to be as graceful as possible. However, please know that I must have firm boundaries in order to protect myself.

• If you reschedule or cancel more than 3 days before your appointment, your deposit can be moved to the new appointment or refunded.

• If you reschedule or cancel within 3 days for any reason, your deposit will be forfeited.

• If you cancel the day of your appointment or do not show up, you will forfeit your deposit and be charged a $50 late-cancel/no-show fee.

• If you are more than 20 minutes late, I may not be able to honor your appointment and you will have to re-book with a new deposit.

Emails and DM’s often get flooded or lost, so they are for important questions or information regarding your scheduled appointment only!

• my current minimum (in buffalo ny) is $160 — this may change for travel/guest spots

• general price ranges:

  • small/simple: $160-225

  • medium: $250-400

  • large: $500-1000+

  • prices vary based on size, placement, and detail

18 years old is the legal required age to get tattooed in New York State. You must be 18+ on the day of your appointment— no exceptions.

you may bring up to two guests to your appointment :)

Before your appointment

• Hydrate and eat: Drink plenty of water leading up to your appointment and eat a solid meal beforehand to maintain energy and blood sugar levels.

• Get good sleep: Arrive well-rested, as fatigue can increase your pain sensitivity.

• Avoid alcohol and blood thinners: Do not drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before your appointment. Avoid aspirin and other blood-thinning medications as well, as they can increase bleeding.

• Moisturize: Keep your skin moisturized in the weeks leading up to your appointment, but skip heavy lotions or oils on the day of.

• Wear the right clothes: Choose comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that allow easy access to the tattooed area. Darker colors are a good choice to avoid potential ink stains.

• Avoid sun exposure: Do not get sunburned in the days before your appointment.

On the day of your appointment

• Shower: Be clean and fresh for your appointment.

• Bring snacks: Pack healthy snacks and a drink for longer sessions.

• Consider entertainment: Bring headphones, a book, or a phone to help pass the time.

• Make sure all forms are filled out appropriately and bring valid ID to your appointment.

While I want everyone to have a comfortable experience and understand the nervousness about pain, I don’t recommend using numbing creams as they can alter the texture of the skin and make it difficult to tattoo! My preferred pain management is bactine and I’m happy to offer that during your tattoo but it can only be used after the first pass is done. If you’re adamant about using numbing cream: apply a thin layer 30-60 minutes before your appointment and cover it with cling wrap to activate it.

• I offer one complimentary touch-up within 6 months of your appointment if needed.

• Please wait at least 4 weeks before booking a touch-up appointment to ensure your tattoo is fully healed. It is normal for a tattoo to look light, dull, or patchy during the healing process so please let it fully healed before reaching out or booking a touch-up.

• Touch-ups can be booked the same way as your original booking (via vagaro, using the ‘complimentary touch-up service).

• If you are planning to get another tattoo in the same appointment or adding on to your tattoo in any way, please choose the appropriate service (small, medium or large tattoo).

this is totally normal and okay! our studio was thoughtfully designed in a way to ease nerves and anxiety. i’m here to chat about and give space for any feelings that come up. there is never any pressure and you can always take breaks as needed!

Golden Days Studio
651 Main St, Buffalo NY 14203

Parking:

• street parking is available right on Main Street or surrounding streets (Washington, Pearl, Chippewa, etc.)

• there are also various parking lots in the area. past 4pm and weekends, the M&T lot at 553 Washington is only $3 to park

for inquiries directly related to your appointment, you can reach me via email: kristen@intentional-ink.com