Tattoo shop owners want to make good impression

By Staci Dennis

Correspondent

Ben Johnson wants to make a permanent impression.

A needle and ink will do.

"The tattoo industry has become more mainstream," said Johnson, 41. "The tarnished image of dirty tattoo parlors is a thing of the past."

Johnson and his friend, Greg Hayes, opened Virginia Beach Ink on Nov. 15 on Nevan Road, just outside the Hilltop area.

The 1,200-square -foot, salon-style shop was renovated with tile floors, several work stations and a seating area. All tattoo art is displayed on computer screens. Johnson and Hayes spent about $20,000 to remodel and open the business.

"We wanted to make an upscale environment where all people could come and feel comfortable and safe," Johnson said. "It's a nice, clean environment."

The duo, who are on the Virginia Beach police force, started talking about opening a business together about a year ago. After tossing around ideas, such as a barber shop and laundromat, they decided on Virginia Beach Ink.

"This is something the community wants in this area," said Johnson, who has been with the police department for five years. "We've already gotten a great response."

Johnson pondered the idea of Virginia Beach Ink after getting his first tattoo representing his two children a little more than a year ago.

"People get tattoos for special meaning," said Hayes, who has been with the police department for 18 years. "These days, no tattoos are alike and each one has its own special purpose."

Virginia Beach Ink has five tattoo artists on staff. On opening day, a line of customers waited with artwork in hand.

Mike Cann, 19, has been a professional tattoo artist for three years. He was working on an original piece a client brought in from the Internet. He tweaked the design and made it his own.

"You can put your own touch on everything," he said. "It's a great way to express your creativity."

The tattoo shop was met with plenty of challenges. Local businesses protested the salon, taking up the matter at Planning Commission meetings. City Council, however, unanimously approved the parlor.

"We listened to people who had legitimate concerns and eased their fears," Hayes said. "I think once they saw we weren't opening a trashy place and we are conducting an upscale business, they were satisfied."

Prices for tattoos vary by artists, but a typical, simple design starts around $60. Original artwork and premade designs are available.

For more information about Virginia Beach Ink, visit the salon at 612 Nevan Road, Suite 106 or call 422-1998. Visit www.myspace.com/virginiabeachink.

Staci Dennis, sdennis@cox.net.