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Confessions of a tattoo artist: What really goes on in a studio

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FWD Life Confessions of a tattoo artist What really goes on in a studio (1)

Tattoos are permanent, and so are memories. Here are a few incidents that have etched a mark in this tattoo artist’s memory

Words by: Devika V Menon    Photographs from: Various Sources

Being a permanent affair, most of us spent days, months or even years before zeroing down on one tattoo. But there have also been instances where someone walks in, intoxicated, and gets a tattoo done just for the sake of it.

Recently, I had an encounter with a tattoo artist in Kochi who’s been around for almost a decade and a half, while accompanying a friend who wanted to get inked. The tattoo was a big one, which meant I had to spend around an hour there, while watching my friend writhe around in pain. Probably as a method of distraction, the tattoo artist started talking to us.

FWD Life Confessions of a tattoo artist What really goes on in a studio (2)

He started his business almost 15 years ago, and that was a time when tattoos were associated with junkies and frowned upon by the society. Over the years, he’s had his fair share of client list, celebrities included. For him, tattoos are a work of art, something he does out of pure passion, and merely playing a part in someone’s life by giving them a lifelong memory to hold on to.

But, it’s not always about fond memories, he recalls. Once, there was a woman who walked into his studio. She insisted on getting a tattoo on her feet. He tried convincing her that getting it done there might cause the tattoo to fade, or worse, cause the ink to spread and ruin it, But she was adamant about getting it done there. He asked her if she had any specific reason for doing so, to which she replied that she was recently divorced and the name she wanted to get inked was that of her ex-husband’s and that his position in her life was now below her feet, he recalled, with a small chuckle.

FWD Life Confessions of a tattoo artist What really goes on in a studio (3)

His long list of stories doesn’t end here. Apparently, there’s something called a punishment tattoo. So two employees of a firm had an alleged affair and things turned sour between them. The woman agreed to let go of the man without causing him any consequences professionally in one condition, He had to get a tattoo of her name on his hand. No frills and fancies, just her name on his arm in big, bold letters. This was her shot at revenge. Funny part is, the guy was a married man.

FWD Life Confessions of a tattoo artist What really goes on in a studio (4)

Good things also happen at the studio, he said, probably after taking in the expressions on our faces. There seems to be a recent trend where a group of friends come in, select a tattoo design and then pay for it, as a gift to someone. They then go ask their friend to go get the tattoo done, for which they’ve already paid. Though there may be several assumptions about a tattoo, there is only one true meaning behind it, something that even the tattoo artist may not know about. But it is something that lasts a lifetime, so make sure you choose what you want to get wisely so that you don’t spend a lifetime regretting it, he concludes.

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Motherhood in Vogue :Deepika Padukone’s Stunning Maternity Photoshoot

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Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their first child, due later this month. In anticipation of this joyous milestone, the couple recently shared a series of heartwarming photos from their pregnancy photoshoot. The pictures beautifully capture mom-to-be Deepika flaunting her baby bump, while others showcase the couple sharing joyful moments, their smiles wide and laughter contagious.

In the photos, Deepika stuns in various outfits. She rocks mom jeans paired with a lacy bra and cardigan in the first few shots, exuding casual elegance. In another set, she channels her inner boss lady in a sleek black pantsuit. A third look features Deepika in a see-through maxi dress, where she is captured twirling and lost in thought. For her final look, she dons a black, see-through bodycon dress, posing alongside her husband Ranveer in a series of intimate and stylish shots. The couple captioned their post with a few simple emojis, but that was enough to ignite a flurry of reactions from fans.

Deepika and Ranveer first announced their pregnancy on February 29, just before attending Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s pre-wedding bash in Jamnagar. Their announcement featured a postcard with the word “September” and adorable drawings of baby accessories. Following the news, Deepika faced criticism and accusations of faking her baby bump. However, with this stunning photoshoot, she has gracefully silenced her detractors, proving once again that she is in full command of her narrative.

 

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Creating a Cozy Living Room: Tips for Comfort and Style

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Your living room is more than just a space for entertaining; it’s a sanctuary where you unwind, relax, and spend quality time with loved ones. Creating a cozy living room involves a blend of comfort and style that makes the space inviting and functional. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect balance:

Choose the Right Furniture

Start with furniture that combines comfort and functionality. Opt for a plush sofa with deep cushions, perfect for lounging. Consider adding a cozy armchair or a recliner for additional seating. Make sure the furniture arrangement promotes conversation and allows for easy movement throughout the room.

Layer Your Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Use a mix of lighting sources to create a warm ambiance. Combine overhead lights with floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces. For added coziness, incorporate dimmers or smart bulbs that let you adjust the brightness to suit different times of day and activities.

Add Textures with Throws and Pillows

Textures are key to a cozy living room. Layer different fabrics, such as soft throw blankets, plush pillows, and textured rugs. Choose fabrics like wool, velvet, and cotton that add warmth and comfort. Mix and match patterns and colors to create visual interest and a personalized touch.

Incorporate Warm Colors

Color influences the feel of a room. Opt for warm, neutral tones like beige, taupe, or soft gray for a calming effect. Accents in rich colors like deep blues, earthy greens, or warm terracotta can add depth and coziness. Use these colors in your furniture, accessories, and wall decor.

Use Rugs to Define Spaces

Rugs can help define different areas within a living room and add a layer of warmth underfoot. Choose a rug that complements your furniture and adds softness to the space. A large area rug can anchor the room, while smaller rugs can be used to highlight specific areas, like a reading nook or conversation zone.

 Incorporate Natural Elements

Bring the outdoors in by incorporating natural elements. Plants not only add a touch of greenery but also improve air quality and create a calming atmosphere. Choose low-maintenance plants like succulents or snake plants if you’re not an avid gardener. Wooden furniture or decor pieces can also add a natural, grounded feel to the room.

Personalize with Artwork and Décor

Add personality to your living room with artwork and decorative items that reflect your style. Choose pieces that resonate with you, whether it’s family photos, abstract art, or vintage finds. Arrange decor items in groups to create visual interest and avoid clutter.

Create a Focal Point

A focal point helps draw the eye and creates a sense of balance in the room. This could be a fireplace, a statement piece of art, or a stylish coffee table. Arrange your furniture and decor around this focal point to enhance the room’s overall cohesion and appeal.

Invest in Quality Window Treatments

Window treatments can impact both the look and feel of your living room. Opt for curtains or blinds that provide privacy while allowing natural light to filter through. Choose fabrics that complement your decor and add texture, such as linen or velvet.

Add Personal Touches

Finally, make the space truly yours by adding personal touches. Incorporate items that have sentimental value or reflect your interests and hobbies. Whether it’s a collection of travel souvenirs, a beloved quilt, or unique decorative objects, these elements will make your living room feel more inviting and personal.

By thoughtfully combining these elements, you can create a cozy living room that serves as a comfortable retreat and a stylish gathering place for friends and family. Enjoy the process of making your space uniquely yours and revel in the comfort and warmth it provides.

 

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JLO’s Bridgerton Themed Birthday Bash

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There are two types of diamonds in the Bridgerton universe: the diamond of the season and the queen who selects it. Without a doubt, Jennifer Lopez belongs to the latter group.

JLO brought Bridgerton to life this past weekend in the Hamptons, where she threw an amazing event to celebrate turning 55. The celebration featured a live orchestra and a horse-drawn carriage, among other features more commonly found at social gatherings in the early 1800s. Naturally, Lady Whistletown was not prepared for the glitzy Regency-era attire either. 

In her first ensemble designed by Manish Malhotra, she looked downright royal in a stunning light blue ball gown with a bodice piece that had off-the-shoulder cuffs and gilded diamond-shaped embroidery. The gown was worn over a full skirt that was embroidered with larger-than-life gold floral motifs.

Lopez wore few accessories and let the dress do the talking because of how grand the ensemble was. She chose stud earrings, a basic pendant necklace, and sheer white opera gloves. She had a gold laurel crown in her hair.

Jennifer transformed into something a bit more fluid later in the evening, which made it easier for her to move around the dance floor and interact with other attendees. This second dress was a gauzy moss-green number with a sequined floral bust, and it too had an off-the-shoulder neckline.

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