I got ghosted :(

Oh my goodness, I totally feel your pain on this! Getting ghosted is awful enough, but when it's for something you're really looking forward to, like a *cute frog tattoo*, and by someone you know from college? That's a whole new level of frustrating and frankly, pretty rude. I remember once I almost got a unique piece done, and the artist just stopped responding to messages a week before the appointment. It wasn't quite a doorstep ghosting like yours, but the disappointment was real. It makes you wonder, doesn't it? Why do people ghost, especially when it involves an appointment or a service? Sometimes it could be anxiety, or perhaps they overbooked themselves and didn't know how to gracefully back out. But honestly, a simple message would have been so much better than being left in the dark and then ignored at the door. That's just unprofessional, regardless of whether they're a peer or an established artist. For anyone else out there who's been ghosted by a tattoo artist, or even just almost got that dream ink, here's my advice based on my own experience and what I've learned. First, don't take it personally, as hard as that might be. Their actions reflect on them, not on you. Second, take it as a sign! Maybe that wasn't the right artist for your frog tattoo after all. A good tattoo artist should not only have amazing skills but also excellent communication and professionalism. The last thing you want is to be halfway through a tattoo and have issues then. When you're looking for a new artist – because trust me, you'll find someone even better for your adorable frog design – make sure to do your homework. Check out their portfolio extensively, read reviews from other clients, and maybe even have a consultation beforehand. This is especially important when considering a peer or someone still building their client base. While supporting fellow college students is great, you also need to prioritize your comfort and the quality of the work. Ask about their cancellation policy, deposit requirements, and how they prefer to communicate. Clear expectations can save a lot of heartache. And finally, don't let one bad experience stop you from getting the tattoo you want! There are so many talented artists out there who would be thrilled to bring your vision to life. It might take a little more searching, but imagine how much better that cute frog tattoo will look when it's done by someone who genuinely respects your time and commitment. Keep your head up, and remember, sometimes these kinds of hiccups just lead you to an even better outcome. I hope you find an amazing artist who treats you right for your next ink adventure!