How does one go about getting a Tatau?

Many men that have told me that they wanted to get a Tatau (Samoan Tattoo) to please their parents. But without their permission, have regretted it. In some cases the father has not got a Tatau and has found out later that their son has just started one, this will insult the father, the father will think his son has no respect for him and his blessing is meaningless. Consequently a proud intention has ended in a painful journey both emotionally and physically.

You must at all costs consult every member of your family for their support whether it is your father, mother, uncle, auntie, wife, older brother and sisters - they must be aware of where your heart is leading you even though they may not, or want to comprehend. Getting a tatau is very solemn decision - we're not talking simply going on the South Beach Diet here - your kith and kin will be involved whether you like it or not. A tatau is a powerful initiation.

The greater the support, the easier the journey. It's no different to a family member being admitted to hospital for a complicated surgery, when all the family members are aware, they unite together to support and pray that all will go well.