Stamp of love: Tattoo parlor offers Valentine's Day specials

After eight years of marriage, there's not a lot Heather and Tony Bishop haven't shared. But they found a new way Monday to proclaim their love.

"These are our first tattoos together," Heather said, as they sat in the lounge at the Ruby Lantern picking out the design each of them wanted.

Although it's not the first tattoo for either of them, it was their first as a couple. They settled on similar hearts.

"It's just an expression of our love, our commitment," Tony said.

In honor of Valentine's Day, the Ruby Lantern in east Carson City offered a $25 special on select tattoos. It's one of several holidays where the special is offered, including Friday the 13th.

The special ran from noon to midnight on Valentine's Day.

"It's basically a gift back to the community," explained artist Eleanor Brennan. "Money the way it is, people can't always afford to get tattoos, so we do these."

And it's not just for lovers.

Mother and daughter Misty and Bryana Garner each tattooed "Love" across her foot.

"It's the day of love, and I love my mom," said Bryana, 19.

Misty already carries a tribute to her second daughter, Brittany, who was stillborn. She has Brittany's footprint and date of death tattooed on her forearm.

She said this tattoo will show her connection to her first-born.

"We do everything together - except for piercing my nose."

For others, the occasion wasn't quite so significant.

Jeremiah James, 22, chose to tattoo two hearts made from skulls on his tush.

Although he once got matching tattoos with his recent ex-wife, he says the tattoo is not a commentary on love.

"I just like getting tattoos," he said. "I'm doing it mostly for humor purposes. Funny tattoos are the best."

As for regrets. He doesn't plan on having any.

"When I'm older, I plan on being one of the funniest old people in the world," he said. "If I live that long, I'm still going to be having fun."

IF YOU GO:

Ruby Lantern

4750 Highway 50 East

775-883-8282