In this episode of Skin Deep Stories, Montreal tattoo artists and moms Kirsten Diachidos and Melanie Belanger break down one of the most common questions they get from clients: Why are tattoos so expensive?

They pull back the curtain on tattoo pricing, explaining exactly what goes into the cost of a quality tattoo. From the experience and skill of the artist, to the materials, inks, and hygiene supplies used during every appointment, Kirsten and Mel reveal the behind-the-scenes details that most clients never see.

They also talk about why cheap tattoos often come with hidden costs — like touch-ups, cover-ups, or regret — and how investing in a professional tattoo artist is really an investment in safety, artistry, and long-term satisfaction.

Whether you're saving up for your first piece or adding to an existing collection, this episode will help you understand what you're really paying for when you sit in the chair. Spoiler: it's worth every penny.

Follow the hosts:

Kirsten on Instagram: kirstentattooarts

Mel on Instagram: melrocktattoos

Book a tattoo or learn more:

Visit wildmagnoliatattoos.com to see their work and book your next tattoo consultation.

This week on Skin Deep Stories, Montreal tattoo artists and moms Kirsten Diachidos and Melanie Belanger share the tattoo horror stories that make every artist cringe — and every client think twice.

From sketchy tattoo shops to poor hygiene practices, they unpack the biggest red flags to look out for when choosing a tattoo artist or studio. They talk about everything from cleanliness standards and sterile equipment, to spotting fake or AI-generated tattoo photos on social media. (Yes, it's a thing now... and it's fooling people!)

Kirsten and Mel also share real-life stories of tattoo disasters they've witnessed or had to fix, and how to make sure you never end up in one of those situations yourself. It's funny, a little gross at times, and full of useful advice for anyone thinking about getting inked.

If you're serious about getting a tattoo you'll love for life — not regret — this episode will help you separate the true professionals from the pretenders.

Follow the hosts:
Kirsten on Instagram: kirstentattooarts
Mel on Instagram: melrocktattoos

Book a tattoo or learn more:
Visit wildmagnoliatattoos.com to see their work and book your next tattoo consultation.

In this episode of Skin Deep Stories, Montreal tattoo artists and moms Kirsten Diachidos and Melanie Belanger dig into one of the biggest questions they get from clients: How do you choose the right tattoo artist for you?

They share insider tips on what to look for when you're searching for a tattoo artist, from understanding different tattoo styles and portfolios, to knowing how to spot real professionalism versus red flags. Kirsten and Mel also talk about the importance of finding an artist whose personality, energy, and communication style match what you're looking for in a tattoo experience.

They get real about the emotional side of getting tattooed too, and why the right artist-client connection can make or break your experience. Whether it's your first tattoo or your fiftieth, this conversation will help you feel more confident about finding an artist who fits your vibe, your values, and your vision.

Follow the hosts:
Kirsten on Instagram: kirstentattooarts
Mel on Instagram: melrocktattoos

Book a tattoo or learn more:
Visit wildmagnoliatattoos.com to see their work and book your next tattoo consultation.

In this episode of Skin Deep Stories, Montreal tattoo artists and moms Kirsten Diachidos and Melanie Belanger take a nostalgic trip down memory lane to talk about their very first tattoos... The good, the bad, and the lessons they learned.

They share the stories behind those early pieces, what drew them to get tattooed in the first place, and how those experiences shaped their love for tattoo art and their eventual journeys into the tattoo industry.

From the emotional meaning behind their first tattoos, to how they feel about teens getting tattooed now that they're mothers, Kirsten and Mel keep it real, funny, and relatable.

They also touch on what every first-time client should know before getting tattooed, from choosing the right tattoo artist and studio, to understanding basic hygiene and safety standards. (Don't worry, they'll spend more time on tattoo hygiene in a future episode!)

If you've ever thought back to your first tattoo and cringed (or smiled) this episode will hit home. Whether you're a tattoo lover, a tattoo collector, or thinking about getting your first piece, Kirsten and Mel's stories remind us that every tattoo has a story, and every story starts somewhere.

Follow the hosts:

Kirsten on Instagram: kirstentattooarts

Mel on Instagram: melrocktattoos

Book a tattoo or learn more:

Visit wildmagnoliatattoos.com to see their work and book your next tattoo consultation.

Welcome to the very first episode of Skin Deep Stories, hosted by Montreal tattoo artists and moms Kirsten Diachidos and Melanie Belanger.

In this episode, Kirsten and Mel open up about their journeys into the tattoo industry, from discovering their passion for art to building successful careers as tattoo artists and business owners.

They share how they got started, the challenges they've faced along the way, and what it's really like balancing life as moms and tattoo artists.

You'll get to know the women behind the ink as they reflect on the meaning of their own tattoos, how motherhood has shaped their work and mindset, and what it's like being part of the growing community of female tattoo artists in Montreal.

Of course, it wouldn't be a Skin Deep Stories episode without a "Mommy Check-In" — a candid, relatable moment where Kirsten and Mel talk honestly about how they're doing as moms juggling kids, clients, and creativity.

Whether you're an aspiring tattoo artist, a fellow mom in business, or just someone who loves tattoos and storytelling, this episode gives you a raw and inspiring glimpse into the lives of two women creating art, connection, and community... One tattoo at a time.

Follow the hosts:

Kirsten on Instagram: kirstentattooarts

Mel on Instagram: melrocktattoos

Book a tattoo or learn more:

Visit wildmagnoliatattoos.com to see their work and book your next tattoo consultation.