Vale of the Fae Tattoo Studio in Castlegar, BC

vale of the fae

step into the vale

Vale of the Fae is a private, appointment-only blackwork tattoo studio in downtown Castlegar, BC, created for those who value an intentional and personal experience.
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This is a space to feel at ease, where your ideas are met with care and curiosity.

Inspired by nature, myth, and symbolism, each piece is thoughtfully designed by artist and owner, Alyssa Schollaardt to harmonize with your body and reflect something true to you.

Meet The Artist
Cozy indoor corner with framed artwork, hanging mushroom decorations, a leafy plant, and a couch with a patterned pillow under warm ambient lighting.

offerings

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custom

Custom pieces are created in collaboration with you. We’ll explore your ideas, references, and intentions to design something personal and thoughtfully suited to your body.

//BOOK CUSTOM
Stylized beige flower icon with three large petals and four leaves on a black background.

flash

These pre-drawn designs are available to be tattooed as is or with small adjustments. Flash is a simple, fun, and accessible way to collect artwork that resonates with you.

//BOOK FLASH
Stylized beige moth icon with symmetrical open wings and visible antennae on a transparent background.

freehand

Designed directly on the body, allowing the piece to flow naturally with your shape and movement. A more intuitive and organic approach to creating something one of a kind.

//BOOK FREEHAND

art showcase

Recent blackwork tattoos spanning custom pieces, flash, and freehand designs. Each tattoo is created with attention to detail and a focus on how the piece flows with the body.

View Portfolio
Blackwork raven tattoo with detailed feathers and red stars across the stomach and ribs, by Alyssa at Vale of the Fae in Castlegar, BC
Illustrative blackwork floral chest tattoo with stylized flowers and leaves, by Alyssa at Vale of the Fae in Castlegar, BC
Blackwork thigh tattoo of a stylized goddess surrounded by large flowers, by Alyssa at Vale of the Fae in Castlegar, BC
Black and grey haloed bear tattoo with stars and berries on the upper arm, by Alyssa at Vale of the Fae in Castlegar, BC
Black and grey bear tattoo with flowers growing from its back on the chest and shoulder, by Alyssa at Vale of the Fae in Castlegar, BC
Blackwork forearm tattoo of two stylized owls beneath a star, by Alyssa at Vale of the Fae in Castlegar, BC
Blackwork chest tattoo of two intertwined wolves with sun, moon and star, by Alyssa at Vale of the Fae in Castlegar, BC
Blackwork upper arm tattoo of a bird holding an ornate key perched on tulips, by Alyssa at Vale of the Fae in Castlegar, BC

frequently asked questions

do you take walk-ins?

No. Vale of the Fae is a private, appointment-only tattoo studio, so there are no walk-ins. We believe the process of tattoos is sacred so every session is booked ahead of time to nurture a calm, quiet space with no interruptions.

where is the studio?

The studio is in downtown Castlegar, BC. To keep the space private and safe, I don't publish the exact address. You'll get it, along with parking and entry directions, once your booking is confirmed. This allows for minimal interruptions.

what style do you tattoo?

I work only in my own illustrative blackwork style, often inspired by nature, folklore and the body's movement. You can see it in my portfolio and available designs. I don't take on other styles.

how much does a tattoo cost?

My rate is $190/hr + GST, with a one-hour minimum. I take cash or e-transfer. US travellers pay cash only, and I accept American cash at a 1:1 exchange rate.

how do i book, and is there a deposit?

Send a request through the booking form with your idea, placement and size. If it's a good fit, we'll set up a consultation. A $100 cash deposit at the consultation secures your date. It's non-refundable, but it can be moved with at least 48 hours' notice. I usually book 2–3 months ahead.

do you do cover-ups or scar cover-ups?

I'm very selective with tattoo cover-ups and only take them on when I'm confident the result will be high quality and match my style. Scar cover-ups are different: I truly enjoy working with scar tissue and welcome those projects.

i'm coming from nelson, trail or elsewhere in the kootenays. can i still book?

Yes. Many clients travel in from around the Kootenays. If you're out of town, the consultation can be done over an Instagram video chat instead of at the studio.

how old do i need to be?

All clients must be 18 or older with valid photo ID.

Beige four-point star icon with elongated vertical points and shorter horizontal points.

let's create some magic

Beige four-point star icon with elongated vertical points and shorter horizontal points.

Whether it’s a custom vision or a piece of seasonal flash, there is always room for a new story. When the time feels right to bring an idea to life, the process begins here.