Ok, ok I admit I was influenced by that "other" recent tattoo post but this time, the tattoo is mine (the bride).
I have a big tattoo on the right side of my upper back. I was a bad decision that I made while in a very dysfunctional relationship. He turned out to be abusive & actually designed the tattoo. It is a bit explicit & definitely not to everyone's taste. I don't even like it myself but my FI is okay with it, even thinks it's kind of sexy because I am a very laid-back, outdoorsy girl with a sunny disposition & the tattoo is such a contradiction. I would have it removed in a heartbeat if I could afford it & had the time to do so before the wedding. I was going to choose a dress solely based on whether it could cover it. Then I started trying them on & fell in love with my strapless dress. Loved the look & feel & decided I had to have it. I also had mum's support & she hates the tattoo more than anyone. But my FMIL & FSIL have made in clear that they EXPECT it to be covered up, with makeup, a cover-up shawl or bolero, anything. I've ordered these tattoo cover-up skins & have asked my stylist for a tattoo cover with makeup at my trial but if these don't look good, I'm going all natural, take me as I am. Their family is old school Italian & I know they think I will embarrass them. But even my mom says that with the dress & veil & my long hair, you don't even notice what the tattoo is. Yes, you know it's there but people are looking at the whole me, not just the tattoo. I'm afraid of static on my wedding day or even at some point before then stemming from their realization that it won’t be covered. Just like most of us, I do not enjoy confrontation & hate to disappoint others, especially my new family-in-law. I know many people will tell me to think &/or say: "It's my day...explain that this is my choice, please accept it." But that is hard to do…sounds easy but once you actually have to say those words, not so easy anymore. Also, I am talking about a very nice family who has treated my very well & been very accepting but who are very emotional & specific about their expectations. Even the tinniest little decisions or problems cause hours of discussion. To be honest, I am spending time & energy worrying about this & going over it in my head..I guess I just needed to vent but would love any feedback or replies. . Any guidance or advice or stories of similar situations from my girls???