We’ve all heard about getting a few tattoos. Although they may appear to be a romantic and Instagram-worthy decision, the time, effort, and commitment required are more significant than that.
Recently, a man’s very personal tattoo journey took an unexpected turn when his wife incited public outrage and worry by insisting that his next tattoo be about her.
On Reddit’s Am I Overreacting? forum, a 30-year-old man recently talked about his experience getting his first tattoo to commemorate a major life milestone after two years of careful consideration and emotional recovery. The design celebrated his success through therapy and his recovery from childhood trauma by incorporating a phrase from a significant book series and a symbol of strength.
The 34-year-old wife’s first response was, “The next one you get has to be about me,” according to PEOPLE, despite the man’s declaration that he was thrilled with his tattoo. She redoubled her efforts after he laughed it off incredulously, saying that it had to be about her if he was going to shell out cash for another tattoo.
The man said that he felt quite uneasy after being triggered by her threat. According to him, I felt as though I had somewhat lost my independence, and I knew that if I refused, a fight would break out. He also thought back to his wife’s previous actions.
He described how she once criticized him harshly for getting an ear piercing by saying, “You’ve just changed your face and it’s different than what I’m used to,” after insisting that he not get a nose piercing because it would alter his features.
When a woman demands that her husband dedicate a tattoo to her, he reacts viscerally: caught me off guard.This link: https://t.co/eURT8BoOy
People July 30, 2025 (@people)
The online community on the well-known question-and-answer website Reddit was questioned by a man who has been married to his wife for more than ten years. Commenters responded strongly to the post, with many stating that the wife’s demand was going too far. Definitely not, someone wrote. If you share funds, it’s appropriate to talk about money, but are you in charge of your body? That is messed up.
Another said: She sounds quite domineering. For me, that would be a deal breaker. You’re not a doll, among other remarks offered. She is denying you authority over your own body, which is control rather than love. You’re worthy of better.
The majority of pair tattoos scream toxic relationships; they must have had a terrible time together.
My friend, a tattoo artist, refers to relationship tattoos as the kiss of death since they always end up divorcing shortly after getting inked.
Nope February 13, 2023 (@_A_Nope)
In the meantime, Rebecca Hughes, a tattoo artist herself, wrote a blog in which she described her own experience obtaining a few tattoos. Although the idea of fantasy can be charming, Hughes claimed that it is just one of the tattoos she has covered up the most.
In addition to looking fantastic together, the best relationship tattoos should make sense on their own. However, Hughes stated that it is preferable to have symbols or signs inked rather than names.
While impulsive tattoos might be entertaining, she also said that permanent body art should be carefully considered. The ideal question to ask is: If the relationship ended, would I still want this tattoo? She went on to say that since tattoos are entirely a matter of personal preference, it is not a good idea to push anyone to get one. The ankle, inner arm, or ribs are the greatest sites to get a deeply symbolic pattern.
According to Rebecca Hughes, a good cover-up can always undo the harm, even though tattoos that one has outgrown or gotten tired of can be overpowering. I’ve helped several clients transform their old tattoos into something entirely fresh, significant, and exquisitely unique. A strong cover-up can have the same impact as a new beginning.
As a result, pick a talented artist, take your time planning your design, and only do it because you truly want to. Don’t give in to peer pressure.
Every tattoo on your body embodies a profound sense of energy, which is something you are likely to retain with you forever. Speak with your artist and keep in mind that no one should ever make you feel bad about your decisions, not even your spouse.
