Black Lantern Collective

Black Lantern Collective is hands-down one of the best tattoo shops I’ve ever been to, & never plan on being anywhere else. My experience with AK (Aaron Kyle) on my Super Smash Bros-themed leg sleeve has been nothing short of legendary. Over the past couple of years, we’ve built this vibrant, action-packed piece featuring all my favorite Nintendo icons like Mario, Luigi, Pikachu, Fox McCloud, Samus, Kirby, Bowser, Princess Peach, Toad, and more, complete with action poses, a mario scene background + nods at the theme with little details like the question block, bombom, and star, (+more) that tie it all together. What makes it truly special are the heartfelt tributes: a cloud with my late brother-in-law’s gamer tag “nappymerkin” and another for my late niece Brittany Kaye, who loved hanging out with me playing Mario and Smash Bros - those joyful memories turned this from a cool game tattoo into something profoundly personal. AK listened to every idea, collaborated seamlessly to bring my vision to life, and his detail-oriented approach, professionalism, fair pricing, and flexible scheduling made the multi-session process a breeze. Even though it’s not fully done, he’s already knocked it out of the park, and I can’t wait to finish it. Dude is dedicated to his art & craft constantly trying to improve. This isn’t my first rodeo with AK, followed him around over the years. Did my guardian angel back piece 12 years ago and my wife’s compass on her lower back, both still looking amazing, and Topher whom is also at the shop, crushed her all-black floral/nature arm sleeve with elements like flowers, honeycomb, a baby cheetah, and bees & more prob missing. The whole team is so freaking talented, including the addition of Katie featuring dot work & vibrant colors +more seeing her work! The shop is impeccably clean and hygienic, and they’re pros at blending epic artistry with sentimental touches. If you’re looking for custom work that’s both fun and meaningful, & just is damn good ART & final product, this is the spot. Frankly, just go here - period. highly highly recommend!

My son and I got tattoos today from Topher, what a great experience. He is a great artist and very welcoming, can’t wait to go back and get another!

AK has curated such a great environment for artists to do their work! It’s clean and comfy. I’ve worked with him several times on creating designs and he always knocks it out of the park. If it’s your first tattoo or your 50th, I’d recommend BLC every time. I know I can only give 5 stars, but if I could it would be 10/10!