I’ve wanted a tattoo ever since I was little, but even when I could already afford to get one, it took me a while to actually take the leap. After all, it was going to be a permanent mark on my body, so I needed to be sure about all the details. Where should I have it done? How much would it cost? Most importantly: how can I do it all safely?

I’ve had ear piercings since I was a baby, and added two more just before I graduated from college. I really like how they enhance my personal sense of style and have been wanting to get more, but my college piercing experience was not a good one. To ensure that everything goes smoothly this time around, I prepared for new piercings by doing a lot of research and being more thorough with choosing where to have it done. If you’ve been thinking of getting some, too, make sure you read these must-know guidelines first!