A particular line from Regina Spektor's beautifully haunting song, "Open", has resonated with me ever since I first heard it- "Potentially lovely, perpetually human." Being that I'm someone who constantly tries to do better and never feels quite -enough- they're words that I could never say too many times to myself, that I'm only human, that I can't do or be everything (and that's okay). When I decided I wanted these words as permanently engraved into my skin as they were on my heart, I wanted just the right artist to do it. After scouring the Internet for shops in the area for a bit, I came across Outer Limits, the oldest tattoo shop in America. Even more impressive than this claim to fame are the artists of this shop- each one skilled tattooers with their own defined styles. Initially I chose Yvonne La for her clean, crisp text and blackwork/dotwork. In January 2017 we had a consultation to talk about the details of the tattoo, at which point she had a finger injury. She suggested other artists to me, but I said I would be okay waiting it out a bit for her to heal up if that was okay with her (I'm a little stubborn and once I get my mind stuck on something it can be a little hard to get me to change direction, haha). She agreed and I placed a deposit for an appointment in late March. March came around and she contacted me to let me know she was not in the right condition to be doing as big of pieces as mine at the time. Once again, she suggested a couple other artists who might be interested in my piece, one of which was her coworker, Laura Wangerin. Laura's work is intricate with floral and geometrical aspects, and she often uses dot work for shading. After looking at her work on Instagram, I was confident she'd also create a piece I'd be proud to wear, so I contacted her and made a consultation for July and then an appt for late October. But with time I got a new job and my days off changed, so I had to change appt dates again...to January 2018. And then in January, Laura came down with the flu and we had to move the appt again, this time just by a week (at this time she offered me an hour of work for free, which she honored at the final appointment and I greatly appreciated). But that day came and we finally began the tattoo! You can imagine my excitement when we got those lines down on my skin after such an incredible wait lol. Laura presented me with the piece all ready on transfer paper. Let me tell you, it was STUNNING and no changes were necessary, so after double checking the spelling she transferred it onto my skin in just the right position and we got started. She warmed me up with a few lines to get me used to the feeling of the machine and then got right into the work; for those of you who haven't gotten a tattoo before, the feeling is akin to a cat scratching your skin, just deeper and constant. In the first session we got the outline and a bit of shading done and a couple weeks later, at the second session (which we almost had to reschedule because I had it down on my calendar incorrect, but Laura graciously worked me into her schedule, and for that I am so so grateful), it was complete! Here we are about a year later and I have a piece I still constantly get compliments on, but, most importantly, one I am incredibly happy to forever wear on my skin. During the process of scheduling and rescheduling the appointment, someone said to me that, "maybe the world [was] trying to tell [me] something", as if I wasn't meant to get this tattoo (My eyes rolled so far back into my head). But now that the work is done, I'll give them that, if anything, the world was trying to tell me that all good things come with time. Thank you, Yvonne, for working with me in the initial stages and recommending Laura to me. Thank you, Laura, for the incredible work and being such a laid back, friendly person to be tattooed by. And thank you to the front desk people for helping schedule this stuff. You guys are all incredible and I highly recommend this place. S**t happens, but waiting for this tattoo to come to fruition was more than worth it. read more

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ATTN. I was scammed and cheated at outer limits by skipper for $1000 I recommend going anywhere else. Horrible way of conducting business. Not good people. Was promised a refund and then ghosted by skipper read more

I would definitely recommend this place if your looking to find a spot to get something tattooed. The store is clean and everyone is spread apart. All the people who work here are super friendly and they are all wearing masks. They are currently taking appointments only. Due to the pandemic my appointment got rescheduled several times but after finally getting tattooed I have to say it was worth the wait. My tattoo artist was Jenny and seriously she was amazing. Her attention to detail AND I felt no pain at all. I could've literally have fallen asleep if it wasn't for my excitement. I look forward to returning and getting some more work done. 100% recommend! read more

I had a walk with with the artist known as JDawg. What an amazing experience. This was my 8th tattoo and by far my favorite, not just because of how it turned out, but because of the interaction with the staff. This was a very positive, and warm receiving group of people. Whether it's your first time and you're nervous, or your 50th, they will make you feel comfortable in the shop. I will definitely be revisiting this shop for more beautiful work. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

Think I found my new favorite tattoo artist Cierra at Outer Limits tattoo shop in Long Beach, CA! This tattoo was a custom painting I had done of my French bulldog pup years ago that I always wanted to get tattooed and I must say Cierra knocked it out of the park. It's one of my favorite tattoos of mine now and for as long as I am in SoCal I will always come back to Outer Limits and Cierra for my next tattoo! Thanks guys! read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - new tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

loved my time with jessy. She was patient and discussed my tattoo with me. I didn't feel rushed or pressured to agree to the final design. the entire experience felt like i was getting ice cream, it was that enjoyable. and overall a fan of outer limits. read more

I messaged Matt the morning of, and by afternoon I was getting tattooed. Really professional shop with friendly, talented artist, and I got to check out the museum in the back. Jose, my artist, was really easy to talk to and just got the concept I wanted down, the details on this smaller piece are awesome. Jose is patient and overall a great person and artist. The price-point was super reasonable and it was a real steal if you ask me. I would recommend this place to my friends, family and for my future tattoos!! -Parking is not the easiest, especially during weekends and nights. But I would gladly walk to the shop just to get tatted again. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

Everyone was so nice. Jason was the artist who did my tat last Friday. I felt bad for asking breaks because I tend to fidget a lot, but he was cool with it. He made sure that I'm good. One of the artists offered me a snack, too. I wanna get tatted again at the same place! Thank you! :) read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

What a fantastic experience with Yvonne. So damn happy with my tattoo and the shop and the artist. Thank you so very much! read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

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Wow such a great experience! staff was super friendly throughout the entire process! Jason helped my idea come to life and made it 100x better. I will definitely be recommending Jason to my friends. Also Kyle was very friendly and welcoming he did a great job. The shop was great, very clean, and well kept! All the other artists we chatted with were very friendly as well. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - squirtle done by Jason aka Krantoons - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

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3rd and FINAL session with Kari. Like Shawn C. stated, Kari has no attitudes and leaves all that outside the front door. She's professional, good with what she does (DUH...tattooing), she's nice and sweet and very welcoming. My last session took a little over an hour and when it was finally completed, I thought the Thai Phraya Nak (Thai Dragon) came out awesome. Check it out: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/_INqUkmI5cws0Vqb3RoNEg?select=eoMvw5uZdGEzmo6BB3xcxQ#Su_q0aBkCTbrdD8_zCEilA & http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/_INqUkmI5cws0Vqb3RoNEg?select=eoMvw5uZdGEzmo6BB3xcxQ#-_Zzf0LodIyw8Kx9THXZoQ I'm not sure if I'll be getting anymore tattoos since I kind of went for the gusto with my first one, but if I were to get another one, I'd come back to Kari or any of the tattoo artists at Outer Limits Long Beach. As soon as you walk in, you'll notice the clean establishment, someone will always acknowledge you even though they may be tattooing someone, and you never feel pressured or intimidated to just browse. BTW....on both occasions for sessions 2 and 3, the shop always called you a day or two ahead of your appointment to remind you. Sweet! Thanks Kari and the tattoo artists at Outer Limits Long Beach. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Completed tattoo by Kari Barba of a Phraya Nak (aka a Thai Dragon). - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

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Emailed about a tattoo and Matt responded really quick! I wanted my service to be done on an specific date and he made sure that I was able to do it that day. Alex did my tattoo and I am really happy with it! read more

Cannot say enough great things about this place! Between the ridiculously talented artists, the personalized service, the cleanliness, and smoothness of check in process, there's really nothing better. Worked with the amazing Laura Wangerin on my second piece from her and it exceeds all expectations- again. Can't wait to come back! read more

I read about this place, formerly Bert Grimm's, known as the oldest tattoo shop in America. Here's a description from their web site: 'Kari Barba purchased and restored the historic Bert Grimm's tattoo studio, the oldest tattoo shop in the United States, second oldest in the world. Bert Grimm's studio was a big part of Long Beach's navy history and is the ONLY business from the original Pike still operating. Known as Outer Limits since 2007, this studio now offers a museum showcasing some of Long Beach's hostory, a high-end body piercing studio and jewlery store, and of course world class tattooing." I did not get a tat but if I ever decide to get one, this is the place I would come. Fascinating museum with old photos of people Bert tattooed long ago. Friendly and clean and welcoming to all. read more

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Nyra was my artist and he's amazing! Everybody is extremely friendly and professional. Coming here you are guaranteed to get quality tattoo and treatment! I was recommended here by my brother and I recommend it to anyone looking for quality tattoos. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

One of Long Beaches greatest gems, home to many talented artists. The lovely Skipper gave me the most beautiful brows. I would 10/10 recommend seeing her for all of your cosmetic beauty needs. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Fluffy Brows one day after micro blading. - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

Came for a tattoo. The tattoo turned out super nice but waited almost 1 hour and a half even with an appointment. The artist came and said she was at the bank . Once she arrived she seemed irritated because I wanted my tattoo super small and dainty, where she was adamant about it not being able to be as small as I wanted it. Lucky enough, there was another lady with a small tattoo with small letters and she was nice enough to show the artist her letters to see if the artist could replicate them. Finally she did, after be annoyed and irritated though. Sadly, this tattoo was for my father who recently passed away unexpectedly. She kinda ruined the experience for me. But anyway here's the tattoo. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

Love this place! I spent several months looking online for an artist who I thought would be able to take the image in my head and put needle to skin to make it a reality. I sent a few emails, but never got a reply. Having exhausted all options around me (Seattle) I thought about trying some back home in SoCal. I came across Outer Limits Tattoo and the work of one artist caught my eye.... the super talented Laura Wangerin. I sent her an email saying basically "hey, love your work. Got an idea for a tat. I want to put my moms ashes in the ink. Oh, and I live in Seattle." To my surprise, Laura emailed me back and said none of that would be a problem. I booked my appointment several months out for Dec 23rd, as I would be in town for the holidays. When I arrived for my appointment, Laura remembered I was flying in and asked how my flight was. She took me to her station in back. She showed me what she was thinking in terms of design, size and placement. Everything worked for me so she fired up the stencil and she got to work. 4 hours later, she said she was done and I got to see the finished product. She had exceeded my expectations in every way. In my head, I had set the bar high for what I wanted, as this tattoo was very sentimental to me. Laura crushed it! I can't thank her enough. I will be going back for more work. Laura isn't a fan of a crowd while she works and self described "not a talker." If you want someone who will be your bff while they work, Laura probably isn't for you. If you want someone who puts every bit of effort and concentration they have into their work to make sure it's done right, then Laura is absolutely who you want! The shop itself is easy to find. Plenty of parking at the parking structure a block away. The shop is in a good area, and very clean. The gang at Outer Limits was friendly from start to finish. I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking at getting top notch work done. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

My experience with Outer Limits Tattoo began about 1.5 years ago, when I first reached out to Kari to request a spot on her waiting list. I'd been thinking about my piece for years, and had scrubbed all manner of reviews, portfolios & "Top 10" lists both in California and out as I looked for the perfect artist to take it on. One name that popped up again and again was the "World Famous" Kari Barba. After a series of simple email exchanges, she agreed to take the job if I was willing to wait until the following year on her waiting list. The piece was to be a black & gray leg sleeve, an octopus with tentacles reaching upwards to my thigh. As it's difficult to estimate the number of hours such a piece will take (healing speed, skin tone, etc. are all variables), we booked 12 appointments in advance, figuring I'd visit once a month and finish the piece sometime within that year. I was able to get in a few months early, due to a cancellation on her books, and recently finished the piece. Kari was incredible - I felt privileged to watch as she freehanded the outlines of the piece each session, she was sensitive to the more painful areas around the knee & shin & went above and beyond to ensure I was comfortable throughout each long day. The other artists seemed to treat her as something between a friend and a mentor, which says so much as each of the artists are tremendously talented. The atmosphere was comfortable & friendly, with the receptionists never failing to offer food & refreshment as we took the occasional 15 minute break. As for the tattoo itself, It's better than I could have imagined - the texture looks something akin to a photograph if viewed up close. I'm stopped regularly 1-2 x/week as passersby ask to view it, one of the progress shots was featured on the front page of Imgur, and most of all it carries incredible significance for me. My wife will be visiting JoRell next month to start an incredible water color tattoo (see his portfolio, the vivid colors & linework are amazing), and I'm already looking forward to my next piece with Kari. Feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns about my experience, I've nothing but a 10/10 to give my experience at Outer Limits Tattoo. The photos below are in-progress, and casually taken. Will post healed photos of the completed piece when I can. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - progress shot (see review) - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

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I had two sessions with Jenny and would highly recommend! She made me feel comfortable and safe and even tucked me into a blanket because I always get cold. Had a great time and left with beautiful ink read more

I can't speak to the quality of work because I've spent the last year and a half trying to get an artist to talk to me about the work I want done and not a single one I've reached out to will give me the time of day. The website claims that all artists will respond to email within a week. Of the 6 artists I've tried to engage for my work, 1 responded and that was just to punt to an artist who had already failed to return 2 emails and a phone call. Find a shop that stands behind their work by treating customers like they matter and not like an inconvenience. read more

My sister and I had matching tattoos completed by Jose. Not only was the establishment iconic, but the attention to all safety regulations made for an enjoyable experience. We got our tattoos in early June and the amount of compliments have been frequent. Everyone was polite and thorough in the details. I would definitely come back for another tattoo should I decide to get one. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Photo of my sister tattoo. My sister has the same but with my name in the balloon. - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

THE BEST TATTOO SHOP! Mickey is a tattoo goddess!! My tattoo looks as fresh as it did the first day! The entire shop has such a great vibe!! So I've been getting tattooed at Outer Limits for quite awhile now and am Working on my second (technically third! Lol) sleeve from O.L and each tattoo by itself is a masterpiece I must say. However I am particularly obsessed with my tattoo from Mickey T! I am so grateful I found Outer Limits. I originally went to Outer Limits Costa Mesa a few years ago to get cover up work done on old tattoo sleeve scars (I had an entire sleeve from another tattoo shop , *not outer limits * removed with laser tattoo removal so I could get a new sleeve) . Shorty worked her magic and made my sleeve look amazing! No one even knew it was all a coverup! Now I go to the Long Beach Shop and I was extremely lucky to find the tattoo goddess Mickey T and she gave me the most gorgeous skull and raven tattoo! I am so excited to see the next tattoos she comes up with! I saw the stencil and was like, yes this is it!! And it healed amazing!!!! Almost 3 weeks old and it looks as vibrant as the first day! No scars, no scabs! No peeling! It is true magic I've never had such an easy healing experience. Dreaming of my next tattoo from Mickey! read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Skull and Raven tattoo by Mickey T - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

Jorell is THE guy if you're into watercolor/sketch type tattoos. I'm probably describing his style without justice, but honestly check out his Instagram and see for yourself (@thejorell). Everyone at OLT is crazy skilled, but my personal style lined up with his so that's why i went with Jorell. The actual tattoo process was definitely a thing to remember. Jorell is one of the most honest artists I've ever worked with (rather, been worked on by) and I appreciate that because he prioritizes the art and your piece over just saying yes to collect a check. What that means is that he will suggest things or ask you questions about your idea if he's unsure about your standing because he wants to make sure you know what you're getting into. Some people might not like that if they want a "yes sir" kind of guy, but that's not what i wanted. I wanted a piece of art that will look good years into it. Because of that, and his artistic ability, I fully trust him when he makes recommendations. Needless to say I am so happy to be able to get work by him done on me, and my husband has even started getting some art done too! Thanks Jorell for taking us on. read more

The best tattoo experience I've ever had. I totally recommend coming here to anyone that loves and appreciates tattoos.

Just want to say i have never had a better experience at a tattoo shop. Tasi Tautolo i believe is her name or tositoss on instagram, she did fantastic work on me and my wife and i loved her work so much i put a deposit on my next one right there. Ive gotten 3 sessions so far and blown away each time- will be returning and referring. Shop operates at a higher level, super professional and cleanly. read more

I just want to say that Jessy D (Valentine) is incredible. She is a very talented artist and I absolutely enjoy our sessions. Thank you for being so wonderful. read more

Getting closer... My first two trips to LBC I wanted to go see the museum. I got there last week. In my head I pictured lots of flash on the walls. Instead there was a display of what the Pike looked like before the waterfront was redeveloped. There was some shop history and super friendly staff. Family matters kept me from adding to the collection this visit but I am excited to go back. read more

I went with my boyfriend on my birthday to get my first tattoo and Tasi did an amazing job. She was professional and quick! Jason completed my boyfriend's tattoo and it was really impressive. Already looking forward to my next tattoo here :) Thanks Matt (manager) for getting everything set up and for always being responsive and helpful! read more

I did it. I really did it. I joined the trend of scarring my body forever. But I'm really glad I did. Once I had my design in mind, I called to set up an appointment, only to learn I'd committed my first foul of the tattoo world - you've gotta make your appointment in person (at Outer Limits anyway). So I went in on a Saturday afternoon and got myself (and Mr Q) an appointment for the following day. I didn't request a specific artist, which I second-guessed myself about a thousand times before going back for my appointment, but, lucky me - it all worked out swimmingly... much to my surprise. "Much to your surprise?" Yes. Here's the thing, the tattoo artist I ended up working with... well, let's just say his english skills were sub-par. Like... really sub par. And I was super nervous and almost ready to call off the whole thing, but I looked through his book, saw that a few guys in the shop had been tattooed by him, and decided to at least see the interpretation he came up with of my design before hightailing it out of there. ...of course, him being a hot, hipstery, Brazilian dude didn't hurt - English skills or not. But we were able to communicate, through a mix of english, sign language, and a mash-up of spanish/portuguese... and it really did all work out. I think Renan (pronounced "hena" - don't ask me, I don't get Portuguese either) is only there temporarily or something, not quite sure, but I don't think I could be happier with my tattoo. An hour later, I had the most perfect addition to my skin I could imagine - a letter "Q" Scrabble tile on my forearm, with awesome shading and precise lines and all. With Renan's limited English, one of the other tattoo artists walked me through after care and even gave me a sample of some Aquaphor to get started. Five stars all the way. ...and, yes, I did say a scrabble tile tattoo. You'd better believe it. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Q Tattoo by Renan (the Brazilian dude who may or may not be there permanently?) - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

I have been wanting to get this song lyric tattoo for years but wasn't sure of the placement or of a good font artist. After literally researching for 3-4 years I found Yvonne on Instagram. I went in for my consultation & then made an appointment for a couple of months later because her books are usually full & I can see why. She's a major perfectionist so you know you'll be in good hands. She definitely exceeded my expectations. Thanks Yvonne!! read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

Best place to get Tattoo'd! Highly recommend if your looking for experienced artist! Love the art concept and the overall experience! read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

Laura Bullets is the bestest best tattoo artist in the entire world, and I love her, and she is more than welcome to permanently scar my flesh with the colors of the rainbow forever and ever. Amen. No, but seriously, I called and made an appointment on Friday for the very next night, and booked with Laura. I knew I wanted her because I loved her so much from the last tattoo she did on me, her color shading is amazing and I knew by looking at her portfolio that she was definitely the one I wanted to work on my next tatt. She's also adorable and super fun and friendly to talk to, but I digress. I got the Triforce from The Legend of Zelda tattooed on my back (you know, because I'm original as fuck). She drew up the outline of exactly what I wanted, and she's very good about talking you through it to let you know what she's doing and when she'll be done with this or that ("The outline is almost done, the coloring will be a lot easier on you!" etc.). When it was over, there were tears of joy, lots of laughter, and much embracing. Okay, well, I'm exaggerating, but we hugged. And it was magical, just like Laura and her needle work. Anyway, this place is amazing and all the people who work there are super friendly and awesome to be around. A++ for cleanliness and professionalism, and the pricing is INCREDIBLY reasonable. $60 minimum, $150 per hour for most artists, I believe the owner and another person charge a bit more. Guys, do yourself a favor and come to this place for all your tattoo needs. You won't regret it. (Also, did you know that it's the OLDEST TATTOO PARLOR IN ALL OF THE UNITED STATES? True story, bro. That's pretty fucking sweet and kind of awesome to bring up into the conversation when you're showing off your new ink.) read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Another Laura Bullets masterpiece. I love this girl with the heat and intensity of a thousand white hot suns. - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

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I came to Outer Limits for my very first tattoo. Very happy I did. Everyone working here just seems super chill and friendly. The shop is also loaded with history. It's a bit stressful trying to find the right place with so many talented artists out there... A few weeks ago I had the idea that I wanted my dads handwriting tattooed on my forearm (from a birthday card he got me) and so I reached out to Yvonne after seeing her immaculate script writing. Not only was she able to accommodate me on the 2nd anniversary of my dads death very last minute, which made it even more meaningful to me, but she made the whole experience awesome and I 100% trusted her process. I love my tattoo so much. Thanks for bringing my dad back to life lol! The handwriting is spot on and I've gotten many compliments on how beautiful it looks. I forever have a visual reminder of him. Amazing. Thanks again, Yvonne! read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - by Yvonne - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

I love the service and the atmosphere here. Their artists are great and collectively provide a vast array of tattooing styles. The shop follows proper Covid safety protocols. There's ample parking at The Pike Outlet parking structure. They cover the parking fee as long as you have an appointment with an artist and you sign in via Yelp. In terms of representation, it is the most diverse and affirming shop I've ever been in. So come as you are, and don't be a dick. You'll get along just fine. read more

This was my first time getting a tattoo at Outer Limits. I went to Laura who is amazing at what she does. I came in for my consultation with a few different pictures and an idea in mind. When I came back and she showed me what she had drawn up I was definitely not disappointed. Her line work is INSANE. When I get another tattoo I will for sure come back to her! I highly recommend getting your tattoo done by her! read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Done by Laura - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

I came to this location because my friend, Tasi, from High school is an artist there. She does some great work. It definitely hurt but it comes with the territory. The facility is clean. Parking is ok, you have to find neighborhood or street parking. They take walk ins and appointments. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Selfie of tat on my back. - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

Jessy is a doll! I got two small tattoos from her. I moved out of state but would happily come back to see her to get more tattoos! Super happy. The whole staff is friendly! read more

If you looking for a talented tattoo artist then ask for Mickey. She really puts her heart and soul into every piece, from the creative concept all the way through the process to the completed work. She cares about YOU having the best experience and a long lasting beautiful piece of artwork to be worn proudly. Thank you , Mickey..... read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California

If you're looking for floral work, you will find no better than Laura (Instagram: laura_wangerin). I went in for a coverup, and my expectations were beyond exceeded. She has a soulfulness that is present in her work, and at $175 per hour, you're getting more than what you pay for. Good work doesn't come cheap, and Laura's is excellent. Laura is a pleasure to work with, and I'll be back for future pieces. read more

Outer Limits Tattoo - It's still healing and the photo quality doesn't do it justice. Laura is simply amazing. - Tattoo Near Me - Long Beach, California