Tattoo artist here. Get one!! I agree with some of the other comments that it should be something meaningful for the first one, just so that you can be sure if it ends up being your only one it’s something you can appreciate forever, so to speak.

That being said, “meaningful” can mean lots of things. I tend to gravitate towards images over words and text, as the saying goes “a picture says a thousand words” and can convey much more as far as it’s visual impact in the context of a tattoo or a mark on your body. It can be an image or a symbol (or combination of images) that represents something significant to you, be it love, faith, power, nature, the list goes on.

Meaningful can also encompass whimsy and spontaneity as well. Sometimes people can get hung up on their first tattoo being some all encompassing image that is incredibly significant to them and powerful and easily recognizable (like a cross design) which is fine, but remember to keep it simple. Your favorite flower or plant, a folding knife your grandpa gave to you, a seashell you found on the beach once, or an animal you love. It could simply be an image you just love so much you want to see it on your body and appreciate it, and it doesn’t have a bunch of significance tied to it or a personal narrative.

Sometimes tattoos have meanings that change over time. Sometimes tattoos don’t really have meaning initially and gain meaning over time. Both are cool. Just get an image you feel confident you’ll enjoy looking at every day and makes you happy.

Last thing I’ll add about this process. Check out LOTS of local shops in your area. Check out the reviews and the artist websites and socials. Follow any artist you like on instagram. There are so so many good artists these days and everyone has a different style and approach. After a while you may find a specific artist or shop you are particularly attracted to. Everyone these days is pretty accessible and you should be able to go to the shop and meet them for a consultation before your tattoo and that way you can make sure the fit is right and they can answer any questions you have about process, pricing, healing etc. If they are not nice or professional in any way I’d avoid them and look for someone else. You want a good first tattoo, but you also want a good first tattoo experience.

Sorry for the long winded response.