Pain & Wonder Tattoo and Piercing Studio

I want to start off by saying this location came recommended from friends who said the work was incredibly high quality -- but that the artists could be pushy (especially if you were a first time client). I figured by sending in concept pictures and establishing where I wanted the tattoo could prevent these issues by having pre-determined what I wanted. I have a tattoo, but have never been to a professional shop and expected by emailing my ideas ahead of time would make sure everything was ready when I arrived. I was wrong.

I had an appointment today to get a small B&W tattoo and had emailed inspiration images and a location to the shop contact. When I arrived, the artist asked where I wanted the tattoo and (as I said in the email) I told him ankle. I was told that wouldn't be an option since ink has a hard time holding in that area (I didn't know this, but his explanation made sense). I had really thought out this tattoo and the location (it is something very meaningful to me) so I was disappointed. He suggested moving it up to be around mid-calf and I tried to explain that I needed this tattoo to be easily concealed for my work setting. He told me I should "wear socks" and that it's 2018 and no one cares about small tattoos. I was rubbed the wrong way at his disregarding my concerns that way. We then discussed the design as my friend and I tossed around ideas of where else I could get the tattoo. To my disappointment, the tattoo was an exact replica of an image I had sent him instead of just similar to the several images I'd shown him.

I said I potentially would get the tattoo on my ribs and was immediately handed a clipboard with paperwork to sign and the artist disappeared with the design. The paperwork asserted I had been informed on all after-care, had fully agreed to the design, and was aware of all the info essentially. I hadn't even been told the cost or gotten a chance to ask about touch-ups or other relevant info. When the artist came back he seemed annoyed to have to answer my question and seemed annoyed I hadn't just signed the paperwork. It was at that point I expressed frustration with the way my tattoo was being handled and let him know I wasn't excited about switching the location and size of my tattoo so suddenly, especially when I had mentioned wanting the tattoo on my ankle in ahead of time emails. At that point a gentleman behind the counter, I assume the one who had been handling my e-mails and relaying info to the artist, told me I had said ankle in the email, but I was now asking for it on my foot. Even if that was true (though I was asking for it on my ankle), they were telling me the closest I could get it to my ankle was 1/3 or 1/2 way up my calf and that still goes against what was agreed upon in our emails.

I ended up just telling them I was no longer interested in getting a tattoo today due to the sudden changing of the location despite my trying to work out such details ahead of time. They let me know I was going to lose my $60 deposit which sucks, but I'd rather wait and get this tattoo where I want it and how I want it since it means so much to me.

Overall, I didn't appreciate my concerns of location being so rudely being disregarded. It was out of line to act like I didn't know where my ankle was (and even under their assertion of where an ankle tattoo would be, they didn't want to do it there either) and to blow off my concerns for having an easily concealed tattoo.

I’ve done a few fairly odd piercings with both Bato and Randy. They’ve not only answered my silly/weird questions, they’ve done it with a smile. They’re always happy to see me and I cannot stress enough how much this means to me. They’re both incredibly knowledgeable and highly versed in literally everything piercing related. 11/10 would trust them over any other source.

They did a good job with my piercings!!! I love this place. They are very professional with what they do.😃😃😃 I would recommend people to come here.

I had a wonderful session with Matty as a walk-in for my first tattoo. We went over my concept, discussed color, size, placement, etc., and then it only took 2 hours for him to finish the entire thing, when I'd anticipated more time (and cost). The space is clean, the staff is very friendly and professional, and I am so, so happy with my tattoo. I've already had others ask where I'd had it done, and I've very happily recommended Pain & Wonder.

I went in to get my septum pierced today. The guy doing my piercing was very helpful and gave me tons of advice. He was incredibly nice and did a great job helping me relax. This was my first piercing, so I was kinda nervous. I had a great time, and was in and out really fast! I will definitely come back to this place one day.

I reached out from several states away to make an appt. From beginning to end, communication was excellent. I was able to set up appts for both my friend and I, pay deposits, and get everything set up easily. Upon arriving, we were treated respectfully, made to feel comfortable, and immediately knew we had picked the right location. Jack had a light touch, was friendly and professional. We are both very pleased with the pieces we got and will be returning in the future.

First of all, I could not be happier with my helix piercing done by Cozmo! It was nearly painless, and it looks perfect! Secondly, when I went into Pain and Wonder, they asked when the last time I ate was and if I would be going on vacation soon. Since I said I would be going out of town, they cautioned me that it may be better to come back afterwards. They were concerned about my comfort and infection if I were to get in the pool or the ocean. I was so impressed by their consideration and willingness to postpone business so that I would have the best and healthiest experience. So appreciative of them and the job they did!

Got my first tattoo here and it was an excellent experience. The entire staff is incredibly friendly, the shop is clean, and the artists are very talented. Christian did an EXCELLENT job, and was very quick. Would recommend to anyone seeking work like this Athens.

I got my nose pierced there today and it was a really good piercing experience!!! The piercing didn't hurt at all because the piercer was so fast and good at what he was doing. Everyone is always really nice when i go in there too!! Definitely going back for piercing/ tattoos!!

I recently had Joe do a piece on my hip and it looks phenomenal! He did an amazing job, super professional, the shop looked very clean, and he took the best care of me. Thank you Joe, you have a customer for life!