2.5/5.
Customer relations is lacking at this shop. I've been following their work for quite a while, before Lu became their star artist even. I've been in the shop three times in my life to get a quote from them.
The first time was to find the cost of a piercing - probably back in 2010/2011, which was overly expensive. The only good thing from this experience was that the receptionist was actually friendly.
The second time was mid-2015. I wanted to get a small tattoo - an outline that was 2x2 inches. The receptionist was incredibly snobby and didn't seem like she wanted my business. She suggested I fill my tattoo idea with black in some areas, which I was reluctant to do. She seemed to entertain my idea, until I asked how much it would cost. Her whole attitude changed at that point. I was quoted $250 for a non-fill, and $350 if my tattoo was filled. Seriously? A 2x2 black outline filled or not filled for that much? I asked the simple question of what their minimum deposit was, but she said she wouldn't take it from me because it seemed like I didn't know what I wanted, and went of on a small rant on no-shows - mind you, I do know what I want but the price was just double/triple what I was quoted at other tattoo shops in Toronto. I just wanted to know how their deposit policy worked.
The third time I went, it was a bit better. It was in October 2015 to get a quote for a filler tattoo, a symbol in black. The owner was there to quote me this time. I was immediately greeted when I walked inside, and when I showed him that I wanted a filler tattoo next to an existing one, he looked at me and asked me why I didn't just go back to my other shop. I was confused because I thought he would want my business. Anyway, he didn't give me a quote right away, asking me what shop I went to, who did the existing piece I did have, and how much they charged me. That's when he gave me a quote. I said I would think about it and left. I don't know why he refused to give me a quote until I answered all his questions. It was bizarre.
Overall, I can tell that this shop has talented artists: Lu and Nina, but based on how reception has treated me, that is where things fall short.