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6 mistakes to avoid when getting a relationship tattoo

We want to be tattooed in the hearts of those we love. So why is it so scandalous and controversial to have our names on their skin?

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The bet is still out on whether getting a tattoo of your bae is one of love's feverish dreams or a decision people arrive at with time. It might also be a love-inspired decision. But hey, we are not here to judge where it springs from but to help you make some good choices if you decide to go down that path.

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It is a strong romantic gesture, whether it is in good taste or not depends on a number of factors. We have collected a few complicated things you may want to consider before taking the leap.

Many of the things you may want to reconsider are concerned with the question "why do I want to do this?"

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It is understandable to want to proclaim your love on top of your inked skin, but you don't have to tell the world. When you love a person, the world cannot stay in the dark about it. You cannot hide how you feel. But even if the world doesn't know, what does it change? Your relationship is not a reality TV show, it is between you and your partner.

This decision can be incredibly personal but you have to have an idea of what your partner may think of it. There are many romantic gestures to choose from to show someone you love them and most of them are harmless either way. Getting a tattoo may not only cross some boundaries, but it may also be an advertisement of your insecurities. Each relationship is unique and has a unique background that can determine if getting a tattoo is right for you.

If it is your way of saying sorry, it might not be a good idea. It might even compromise the relationship if both of you are not ready for that commitment. Not to mention if might freak the other person out.

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You should show your partner that you treasure them, but there are better ways to go about it. Yes, you may be overcome with love and affection for this person, but that is exactly when you shouldn't make rush decisions. Sit with the idea for a while, and make it part of the list of other things you can do to express your feelings.

Hey, if you are the kind of soul that gets tatted for love and keeps those that get your heart close, then by all means keep the legacy going. After all, tattoos tend to be about experiences that strike us. But if this is the first time you are getting a tattoo, you may want to reconsider. Those who have tattoos start from somewhere, but starting with a lover's name is not the best way to go about it.

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If your motive is to have a memory of the relationship, then you should look closely at the relationship and why you see it from a past-tense perspective. Having the tattoo will not save it nor will it give the relationship or person permanence in your life. It may be hard to see right now, but if the relationship ends that tattoo may haunt you forever.

Consider getting a tattoo of a shared interest. It may be a hobby or place or an item. That way, even if the relationship ends you will have something that you actually love and want to keep. It may be bitter-sweet with the end of the relationship, but at least it won't be just bitter unlike in the case of a name tattoo.

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Getting a lover's name tattoo is an exhilarating, passionate, and emotional experience. But emotions change and we are left with our values, problems, and unpredictable changes that may cause negative experiences too. Just like any other romantic gesture, make sure it fits you, the relationship, and your partner.

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