How It Works
"This is the first time I've had to fill out a form for a tattoo. Can I just venmo you?"
I am fully aware that I run Burning Sage differently than most shops, but if you’ve seen my work, you know detail is important to me. Whether you’ve had a million tattoos done in a million different shops or this is your first time even considering one, knowing what you’re getting into is the best way to combat anxiety and miscommunication. Keep reading to see what my process looks like, and what to expect at each point.​
BS means no BS:
1. Figure out what you want, check out my work, and make sure the two match up.
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It’s important to find an artist who fits your needs, and it’s up to you to do your research. You’re your best advocate, so make sure you’re getting what you deserve. Look into styles you like. Are they fine line? Realism? Illustrative? Bold blackwork? Find an artist who excels in the style you want, If you don’t see the kind of work you like or want in the portfolio of the artist you’re looking at, don’t book that artist. You wouldn’t book your dentist for brain surgery, so don’t book me for color work. You get the idea.
2. Fill out the booking form.
The form is the easiest way for me to understand exactly what you’re wanting. It’s also the quickest way for you to realize you may have a few more things to think over before booking. Ensuring we are both on the same page before any payments are made or days are set is essential. You’ll complete the form with your name and contact info, and then go as in depth as possible with the following questions. Feel free to leave a crazy long description that seems annoyingly specific; I am detail oriented, and I will not shy away from precise instructions. Pictures of the styles you like, sizes you like, examples you want to work from, or any other things you think would be helpful ARE helpful. That form is my godsend. It’s the only thing I use to design my art that will be permanent on your skin, so it’s your godsend, too.
3. Wait up to 10 business days for a response.
I’m the only one running Burning Sage. 99% of the time I’m super excited to answer your inquiries, but it takes time to get back to everyone. As soon as I can, I will get back to you with your acceptance email or a valid reason why you have been rejected. You will always, always, always receive an email, regardless.
4. Receive your acceptance email.
Your acceptance email will be sent to the email you included on the form within 10 business days of your submission. The acceptance email will include your estimate (divided into your non-refundable retainer and sessions), a list of dates and times that I have available, and further instructions if you’re still interested in booking.
5. Receive your invoice.
The invoice for your non-refundable retainer will have a due date, but it can be paid at your convenience (ignore the due date). Your date you selected will not be reserved until your invoice is paid, but as soon as I receive confirmation of payment I will send you your booking confirmation OR new available dates if needed.
6. Receive your booking confirmation.
As soon as your invoice is paid I’ll send you your booking confirmation email, or further open dates if the date you selected was booked before I received payment. Your booking confirmation email will include some guidelines to prepare for the day of your appointment, as well as a few booking rules and expectations.
7. Come to your appointment.
The instructions for your appointment will be in your booking confirmation email, but feel free to email me within our email chain with any questions. I do not receive responses to automatic emails sent by Square.
8. Receive aftercare instructions and pay your balance.
Your balance will be included in the acceptance email (the first email you received), and I accept card or cash the day of. We will go over aftercare at your appointment to make sure you feel 100% comfortable with the process. In general, you want to avoid wet and hot activities for two weeks, and wash your tattoo twice a day with antibacterial unscented soap. Aquaphor is thinly applied after each wash. Treat your tattoo like an open wound and you’ll be just fine! The process isn’t as technical or costly as it may seem. Dial Gold, Aquaphor, and two weeks is all you need.