Ep 14. Party All the Time

In Miami Ink season 1 episode 14, titled "Party All the Time," viewers are first introduced to a new client, Mark, who has traveled all the way from England to Miami for his very first tattoo. Mark is looking to get a simplistic black and grey design of a cuckoo clock with the words "time flies" written underneath it. As tattoo artist Ami James works his magic, viewers also get a look into his personal life outside of the tattoo shop. Ami's daughter, Willow, is celebrating her first birthday and he's juggling how to balance work with family, especially as he's the only one available to make the party preparations.

Meanwhile, another client named Laura comes in for a tattoo. She has already chosen her design, a beautiful black and grey floral piece with the words "forever in bloom" accentuated in script. As she describes her story behind the tattoo, viewers find out that it's in memory of her deceased grandmother who had a major impact on her life. Laura is very emotional, and Garver, the tattoo artist, does his best to console her and provide a finished product which will act as a perpetual reminder of her grandmother's love.

Viewer's also follow artist Chris Nunez as he prepares to hit the runway at Miami's fashion week. Chris is a bit on edge due to creative differences with his team but he does his best to pull it together; an invitation to the V.I.P after-party helps to lighten the mood. Back at the shop, a very special client shows up at the door, it's Ami's best friend, Darren Brass. Darren is originally from the UK as well and is in town to celebrate Willow's birthday. In preparation for an all-night party, Darren wants to get a full back tattoo, a life-sized portrait of his son.

As the tattoo process gets underway, Ami takes a break to head to the party with Willow. The celebration is in full swing; Willow has cupcakes, balloons and even a tiny white pony to ride on. Meanwhile, Garver has started working on Laura's tattoo and he's determined to make it as perfect as possible. Laura is ecstatic with the finished product, which is more than she ever could've imagined.

Back at the tattoo shop, Chris is still stressed about his upcoming fashion week showcase but an impromptu party is on the horizon. With the shop's front windows blocked off, artists and friends gather around for a full-on dance party that lasts all night. There's drinking, laughing and lots of tattoos being shown off. Darren's tattoo is finally revealed, and Ami is in awe at how life-like it appears. With the party still in full swing, Ami finally decides it's time to head home with Willow and leave the rest of the night's festivities to his friends.

Miami Ink season 1 episode 14 is an emotional yet entertaining episode that showcases the personal lives of the tattoo artists in addition to their artistic talents. From big celebrations to heartfelt tattoos, viewers are given a glimpse into the lives of the Miami Ink family.