Deluxe Tattoo

I called one day to see if I could come in ASAP to retouch a small star tattoo on my wrist, the girl had me come in one hour. (Totally happy to be able to get in quickly!) however I have been wanting to get something added to my wrist area. I met Stephanie there and I showed her a small little owl I wanted to make fit on my wrist. She took her time drawing out a picture I had and shrink it, she tried twice until it was to my satisfaction:) she was very helpful making sure it would look good and that the size and color was to my taste. Although it hurt like hell (to be expected) the tattoo came out spectacular!!! The fact that she took her time and never rushed me made me a happy customer:) the tattoo came out to my liking very much!!! And the price fair for the work she put in. I did my research prior to coming to this tattoo parlor and I chose this location based on its great reviews. I'm glad it proved right!!! Thanks guys!!

Love this place. Stephanie has done 3 tattoos for me and all are fabulous! Great service, great prices.  Going back next week for another.

This is the worst tattoo shop that I have ever experienced. I have several tattoos, but am new to the Chicago area, so I came to Deluxe Tattoo based on the reviews. I wouldn't give it any stars if that was an option.

I emailed with the owner, Ben, what I wanted done prior to coming in. I wanted this simple, symbolic drawing of a phoenix (I sent the actual drawing) and some words above it. He didn't have availability to see me soon (no big deal), so I asked to be referred to someone in his shop with good lettering. He forwarded his email to Stephanie, and she was going to be ready for me when I came in today.

When I got to the shop today, Stephanie showed me that she had taken the liberty to add shading and "girliness" to the phoenix. It actually made it look scarier and changed the presentation. I was a little annoyed as I was clear that I wanted what I sent. Then, she not only didn't have any lettering samples for me, but she was like "oh, you want the lettering, too?" That made me even more annoyed, because I had specifically asked for ideas about the lettering. Why would she focus on the part that I knew I wanted and complete ignore the other part of the tattoo? Once she started to provide her (unsolicited) opinion that it had to be bigger, I was done.

I found Stephanie to be standoffish, and I definitely was not comfortable trusting her to do work on my body. I decided to not get my tattoo with her, and asked to talk to Ben (the owner) as he has specifically recommended Stephanie to me for her competence.

Ben was argumentative and snide about the situation. Now, I am not a customer who normally complains, and I wasn't looking for handouts. I simply was looking for a little humility about the situation and some understanding as to why it was frustrating for me.

I took half of my Friday off and wasted $50 on a deposit for a place that doesn't pay attention to detail (i.e. read emails thoroughly) and has zero customer service.