Having already acquired several tattoo's over the past few years, I always look for the artist who's style works best with the type of tattoo I'm looking to get. When I wrote Awen and told her about wanting to get a tattoo done from a picture, she was excited about the idea and was looking forward to the project. The tattoo I chose was of my dog and "sweetie" Oakley. Oakley is a boxer and thinks she's human. She is very expressive and has a great love for life. Knowing that I'll always have her with me is very meaningful to me.

The tattoo of Oakley came out better than I ever could have imagined. It truly looks just like her! Awen did a great job of not only capturing her color, but showing her expression and personality. It all came through in this tattoo. I have people almost daily comment on how "great" it looks and most of these people aren't the type that even like tattoo's. It is truly something I am very proud to have and I am glad I had it placed where it can almost always be seen (left lower arm). If anyone is considering having a portrait done or any type of tattoo from a photograph, I wouldn't think of going to anyone but Awen!! I look to get several more tattoo's in the future (depending on what my wife permits) and will always go to Awen.

--Curtis Cooper

Awen is an exceptional tattoo artist. She will discuss your tattoo wants and desires and design a piece just for you. Getting artwork that will be on your body for life is an intimate decision. I can think of no better tattoo artist to help you with that intimate decision than Awen.

From the design to the actual tattooing and through the discussion of aftercare, Awen's presence and personality will leave you comfortable and relaxed. She will treat you with respect and also respect your individuality.

--Dave Dybsetter

I went to Awen for my first tattoo, and it couldn't have been a better experience; her relaxed and confident attitude made me feel absolutely comfortable. Awen was able to replicate the celtic design I'd found and brought to her, with incredible detail and vibrant color. My tattoo looks stunning, and I'm completely pleased.

--Dawn Messerly

When I decided to get my first tattoo on my 35th birthday, I knew nothing about tattoos, other than that I had always thought they were cool. I did a lot of thinking about what design I wanted, and what getting a tattoo would be like. I read several FAQ's on the Internet, and visited several tattoo shops in the area. I wanted to have a special design of two dolphins around a heart put on my bicep. I was looking for realism in the dolphins and was told by several tattoo artists that they were too small for any detail. Then I met Awen.

When you first look at her portfolio, you will notice a difference. Awen puts a great amount of detail into her work. You will also notice a difference when you talk to her. She has an enthusiasm in her work and interest in your desires, which makes the experience of getting a tattoo very enjoyable. She understands that the tattoo is yours for the rest of your life, and your feelings about the work are of the utmost importance. She answered every question I had, in person and on e-mail, completely and quickly. She made me very comfortable with the process.

Awen stands out as an artist who works in tattoos. If you are thinking about getting a tattoo, you should contact Awen. You will be satisfied with the experience and the work you receive.

--Mike Cimaglio

About three years ago, after hemming and hawing for years, I finally found the tattoo design that I wanted -- an East Indian tribal design that somehow "clicked" with me. That was half the battle. The other half was finding the right person/place to get inked. Then I remembered this great shop run by two women that had a very "UN-tattoo shop" vibe to it. A friend of mine had gotten inked there and was quite pleased with it -- so I thought "what the hell" and called to make an appointment.

I remember walking into this ultra-cool joint, very white, very clean... No "flash" on the walls (liked that), good energy. It was a Friday afternoon, and while what I was getting was a fairly simple one color design and would take about an hour, I was nervous as hell! So, I walk in out of the light summer rain, into this cool shop. On the stereo Annie Lennox's Diva album was playing (how much more "UN-tattoo parlor" can you get!?). Out walk's this unassuming woman with super short punky blonde hair, and lots of earrings and lots of tattoos! She takes my hand and calmly looks directly in my eyes and says "are you ready?" (or some equivalent, I'm paraphrasing after all) and leads me to the room to get my first tattoo.

I think Awen held my hand the entire time during this journey (figuratively of course, she was busy penetrating my shoulder with hundreds of little needle pricks). The thing that sticks with me about Awen is her commitment to her client's comfort (and, of course, great musical taste). Of course, I'm sure I was visibly nervous, Awen continually asked how I was doing, 'Would I like a break?' 'A glass of water?' etc. To this day, whenever someone comments on one of my, now five, (my, they are addicting aren't they?) tattoo's, invariably I hear "I'd like one someday" -- that's what I tell them. I share with them about Awen, her compassion, her talent (she's designed all of mine except the first and third one's) and her humor (did I mention she's funny as hell).

As I sit here writing this and listening again to Lennox's Diva, I remember the patience which Awen showed in dealing with this tattoo virgin. That's also why I will continue to get inked by Awen. Of course, the location has now changed, the shop's a bit cooler -- but the wonderful energy survives. She's an amazing artist and a wonderful guide into a slightly scary new world of needles and ink. Thank you Awen for placing your art on my body!

--Kyle Schmit