Many people are wanting to hold on to that memory of their loved one with an “In Loving Memory Tattoo”, something that they will always carry with them.

In loving memory tattoos are personal and meaningful and can be as simple as a rose, a star, a cross or as complex as an angel or a portrait. Many people choose an angel, usually in the form of a cherub for the loss of a child, or a cross with the name and dates of birth and death of the loved one, intertwined with a rose or heart. Butterfly designs are also quite popular as in loving memory tattoos, as they are believed to be representative of the soul of someone who has passed away.

In loving memory tattoos don’t have to be sad, in fact a better mindset to have is to choose a design that celebrates the life and vitality of the loved one. With this in mind, many people now are getting in loving memory tattoos for loved ones that haven’t passed away, but who may be overseas or a long distance away.

Whatever style you choose, take your time and CHOOSE WISELY, as in most cases tattoos are relatively permanent. If you are opting for a portrait tattoo, then please ensure that your tattoo artist specialises in portraits and review some of his portfolio, as portraits are often the most difficult to do and can turn out badly.

The use of tattoos to signify one’s love really took hold at the beginning of the twentieth century when sailors had red heart tattoos with the word Mum tattooed in the centre. Later in the second world war, soldiers often had heart tattoos with the name of their wife or girlfriend – throughout time, these tattoos have been looked upon as lucky charms. Stars and roses have also been used as tattoos to signify love.

A couple in love, may wish to express their undying love for each other with matching tattoos, complete with each other’s names, on a heart or rose, possible embellished with flames or wings and etc.

However, years pass and the couple go their separate ways, only to be left with an indelible reminder of the failed relationship – plus, it won’t exactly be endearing to a possible new partner, unless they have the same name. Then you are left with the option of having it filled in or removed with laser surgery (an expensive option). Think of Angelina’s Billy Bob tattoo, which has now been consigned to the scrap heap through laser surgery.

So, while you might be keen to express your undying love with a tattoo, it may be prudent to leave your partners name off the design – just in case the tattoo is more permanent than your love.