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Reviewed by Ashley Baldwin, LPC Ashley Baldwin is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in Perinatal Health. After her Master's in Counseling, she did certifications in Perinatal Mental Health and is a Certified Addictions Counselor (CACII) with around 13 years of counseling experience. Read full bio of Ashley Baldwin
Specialty: Perinatal HealthExperience: 13 years
Written by Shikha Thakur, MBA Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood. Read full bio of Shikha Thakur
Specialty: Relationships and Baby NamesExperience: 7 years
Edited by Akshay Nair, MA Akshay is an associate editor and former journalist with more than four years of experience. A post graduate in Mass Communication and Journalism, he has strong professional and academic background in the field of content writing and editing. Read full bio of Akshay Nair
Specialty: Love, Marriage, RelationshipsExperience: 4.5 years
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Father is a son’s first superhero. And the son is a father’s hope and dream. If you are looking for some cool father-son tattoos, this post is for you. A tattoo is timeless and will remain with you till your last breath.
So why not celebrate the special bond with your father by getting a meaningful tattoo together? Here we compiled some unique father-son tattoo ideas that will leave a lasting impression on everyone. Scroll down.
In This Article
Father-Son Tattoo Ideas
Here are some common and popular tattoo ideas for father-son tattoos that they can get together, to treasure their unique bond.
1. Footprint
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Art can be found in many forms, and a footprint is no exception. A footprint could mean a lot of things. It may symbolize strength and purpose in life, which may explain the bond between a father and a son. It could also express the nurturing and love between a parent and a child. You may pick from different variations of footprints and get one that suits you both.
2. Batman-superman
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To a little boy, his dad is a superhero. So why not get a matching batman and superman symbol tattoo? While a batman tattoo represents hope and mighty force, a superman tattoo symbolizes strength and protection. You both choose one superhero each or have both the symbols inked.
3. Father-son sketch
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Getting this tattoo of a father and son sketch could be a beautiful gesture of commitment and devotion. This tattoo represents a significant relationship and is something you can take pride in. You can find different drawings of father and son together. Although they all represent the same, you may pick any that touches your heart instantly. Getting these father-son matching tattoos on a special day could make it even more memorable. Make sure you have a good artist if you are doing facial sketches.
4. King and prince crown
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A crown tattoo symbolizes tradition. It could mean a lot of things, such as victory, power, and royalty. When a father treats his son like a prince and the son looks up to his father as if he were a king, then a king crown and a prince crown tattoo would be a fantastic idea.
5. Family first
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For a father, his family is always the priority in life. If the son learns everything from his father and wants to follow his footsteps, he would also put his family first, before everyone else in life. If such is your relationship, getting a ‘Family First’ tattoo might be the perfect choice to symbolize the unity and significance of your family.
6. Compass
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As a compass helps you move in the right direction, a father guides his son during his growing up years. History repeats when the son helps and guides his father in the latter years. This special bond can be captured with a compass tattoo, which serves as a poignant expression of the father-son relationship.
7. Horse
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A horse has been a favorite animal for many since ancient ages. A horse tattoo could signify guidance and strength, which are characteristic of a healthy father and son bond. This tattoo is pretty popular among men in western countries too. You could get a small horse image inked near your ear, behind your neck, or on your fingers. If you want a bigger tattoo, you can get it inked on your arm or your back.
8. Heart and infinity
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Infinity with a heart means long-lasting love or never-ending love. If your father-son relationship signifies love forever, then you can have the symbol of heart and infinity designed on the words ‘dad’ and ‘son.’ This tattoo could be extraordinary for you both.
9. Cross
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If you both the father and son are religious, then you could both honor your faith by getting a tattoo of the Holy Cross. It is also a symbol of spirituality, love, and freedom. There are plenty of variations of this tattoo that you can pick from for a perfect father and son matching tattoo pattern. You can even have a cross combined with other designs, such as an anchor and a cross, a rose, and a cross, or a cross and a quote. Make your choice!
10. Fist bump
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If you and your father or son share a relationship that stands on firm ground, powered by stability and strength, then a ‘fist bump’ tattoo would be a unique choice. It shows how strongly you are connected. You may even get a fist, with the words ‘dad & son’ inked below it.
Quick tip
You could also get matching tattoos in a portrait where the father and son watch the sunset together.
11. Rocketship tattoo
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It could be a fun symbol for people who are fascinated by space exploration. If your father-son duo enjoys going to science centers and museums, and love talking about outer space and astronomy, then this tattoo would be the right choice. You can have a simple rocket tattoo, or with combinations of space, planets, etc.
12. Mandala
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In case you are looking for a traditional or an ancient pattern idea for a matching tattoo, then you can pick the mandala. It could be ideal if you want a big tattoo with a unique design. A mandala means circle in Sanskrit and is usually a group of different geometrical shapes, such as rings, triangles, and more. It is a versatile symbol that is traditionally used for spirituality and meditation.
You can have a simple black and white mandala pattern, or a colorful one, or something in combination with flowers and animals. A father and son can have the same mandala tattoo or two different variations.
13. Dad and son heart tattoo
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When you simply want to tell you that your father or son is your life and your heart beats only for them or because of them, then a ‘dad’ and ‘son’ tattoo with a heart symbol could be a good fit. You can go for a simple pattern on your wrist or a big and colorful tattoo on any part of your body.
14. Sword
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It is a vibrant and historical symbol that some love to get inked. A sword reflects cultural heritage, legacy, strength, wisdom, chivalry, and leadership. A father and son looking for a unique tattoo idea could think about getting a sword tattoo. You can have a simple, small design or a huge one with colors and patterns.
15. Stay wild or adventure
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This is for a father and son who often team up for some adventure. If you and your father love adventure and being in the wild, then this is a tattoo that could be relatable to you. It could be a stylish and distinctive matching tattoo that a father and son can have.
16. Three arrows in one direction
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An arrow or arrows are among the popular choice of tattoos among many. If you have been looking for a distinct pattern, then you may go with three arrows in one direction. It is a cultural symbol of Native Americans and stands for unbreakable bond or forever love. As a father and son’s relationship is that powerful, this tattoo could be a good choice.
17. Triangle
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Although a triangle tattoo has a lot of meanings, it is most commonly considered as the symbol of Christianity. The three points of a triangle symbolize the holy spirit, the father, and the son. However, some other implications include – mother, father, and son; creation, preservation, and destruction; and also mind, body, and spirit. Whichever you relate to, the triangle could be a great idea for a father and son tattoo.
18. Always together
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A child would never want his father to leave his hand. Similarly, a father would never want his son to stay away from him. If you find this relatable, then a tattoo showing a child’s and father’s hands together could be a good idea.
19. Lion
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If you relate to the bond shared by Simba and Mufasa (Disney characters), then you would not mind having a lion tattoo. Would you? Besides that, a lion tattoo also represents passion, optimism, strength, and courage. If you have picked up these traits from each other, then you could have a black and white or a colorful lion sketch inked.
20. Band
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A band tattoo is quite popular among men because it is bold and classic. You can get a band tattoo in a variety of designs, from a simple plain band to a curvy one. This design has been popular for ages and among many cultures. It could be a symbol of humanity or never-ending love or religion, based on the pattern you choose. This one could be a good father and son hand tattoo.
21. World map
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If you and your father or son love traveling and have visited a lot of places together, then a world map tattoo could be an ideal choice. You can have a simple world map outline linked or shade the ones that you have visited, or which were memorable for you. Use your creativity and have a unique tattoo pattern that people would be impressed with at just one glance.
22. Car
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Remember those fun-filled days when you enjoyed road trips with your family? Or you still do? If you want to remember those beautiful moments always, then a car tattoo would be an excellent pick for a father and son tattoo. And if it’s been a while since you have been on a father and son trip, then the tattoo will be a reminder to plan one.
Point to consider
An adorable father-son tattoo design is a kangaroo with a joey in a pouch. Although female kangaroos have a baby pouch, fathers and sons can get these unique tattoos too.
23. Like father like son
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Do people call you senior and junior? Do you both share similar personalities and have similar likes and dislikes? Then the phrase ‘like father like son’ would be appropriate for you. You can have this quote inked on your forearm or behind your neck. It would appear that you two are the same, even though different individuals.
24. Life
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When a father and son’s lives revolve around each other, and it’s difficult for them to live without each other, then the word ‘Life’ can be a cool matching tattoo idea. It is a simple tattoo design, but has a deep meaning to it, that you two live for each other.
25. Dragon
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You could find a lot of variations when you have chosen a dragon as your father-son tattoo idea. This symbol has a high cultural significance in various parts of east Asia. A dragon represents wisdom, power, and protection, something that a son learns from a father and a father gets in return from a son in later years of life. You can pick a simple black tattoo of a dragon or a huge colorful pattern done.
26. Skull
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The skull would be a bold depiction of all the positives and negatives that you and your father went through together, and what you learn from your relationship. If there are more good aspects than bad from your relationship, you can get the tattoo inked somewhere where you can see. Otherwise, you can get it on your back or behind your neck to make it unique.
27. Lifeline
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When a father and his son are each other’s lifeline, this tattoo can be a great idea. The lifeline tattoo symbolizes how precious life is for each other. A father and son could have matching lifeline tattoos on the wrist, chest, or any other part of the body.
28. Roman numeral
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If you are looking for a simple and elegant matching tattoo for father and son, then classic roman numerals could be your next choice. You can pick any number or date that is close to your hearts and get it inked. It could be each other’s birth dates, age when they got the tattoo, or anything else.
29. Sunglasses
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Sunglasses or shades could be a cool matching tattoo for a father and son duo. It is a stylish choice that represents someone’s liking towards outdoor locations or a fondness to explore new sites. If you both love touring and visiting new places, then you may get this tattoo inked.
30. Mountain and wave
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The combination of a mountain and a wave or a mountain and sea is no less than breathtaking. It also represents the beautiful union of earth and water. If you admire nature and feel its potential, then you may like to have this tattoo print. It could be an exceptional choice for father and son.
31. Rock on
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If you and your father or son are the cool, new age men who enjoy music, dance, and chilling, a super cool tattoo idea would be the words ‘rock on’ or ‘let’s rock.’ It is a modern yet stylish tattoo that a father and son can have.
32. Names or initials
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Another simple tattoo idea could be names or initials. The father can get the tattoo of his son’s name, and the son can get his father’s name inked. You may choose any font and size and get it inked anywhere on your body.
33. Smiley
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When a father and son have a cute relationship loaded with sweetness, then a simple smiley tattoo would be a perfect fit. You can either have it in black color or black and yellow. The choice is yours.
34. Elephant
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A baby elephant, an elephant’s trunk, the father elephant and a baby elephant, or an elephant with other combinations could be a great idea too. You can pick any from a huge list of elephant tattoos for father and son. An elephant symbolizes a lot of things such as good luck, strength, prosperity, intelligence, power, dignity. It could be a meaningful and distinguished tattoo idea for a father and son.
35. City skyline
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Do you have a dream city to visit? Or is there any city where your family has spent the best moments of life? If you want to keep that city’s memory with you forever, then you may get that city’s skyline tattoo. It would be an exciting choice of tattoo for a father-son duo.
36. Chess King
The king, a symbol of strength and leadership, is the most influential player in Chess. Therefore, getting matching father and son Chess king tattoos could be a great idea to symbolize the men heading the house. You may also choose this tattoo if you both love playing the game.
37. Guitar
If both the father and the son enjoy playing the guitar, matching guitar tattoos are an excellent way to celebrate their shared interest. Additionally, you can choose a creative design to represent your harmonious bond as a reminder of all the beautiful times you two have enjoyed together, much like a sweet song.
38. Soccer Club
Soccer is one of the most popular sports worldwide, especially among males. So, whether you and your father attend the same or different soccer clubs, you can get matching tattoos of your favorite soccer club. This will remind you of all the sweet and competitive times you have watched the games together, cheering for your teams.
39. Video game characters
From simple Mario games to more advanced games like TMNT: Ninja Adventures, there are several video games loved across generations. So, suppose you have sweet memories of playing video games together, or you still engage in father-son gaming time. In that case, you can consider getting matching father-son tattoos of iconic video game characters.
40. Anime characters or symbols
Anime and manga have a wide appeal across various age groups. From series like Naruto to One Punch Man, there are numerous anime series to consider for your father-son tattoo if both of you are avid anime enthusiasts.
41. Marvel comic
Getting matching Marvel comic tattoos is a great way for father and son to express their love for Marvel comic heroes and stories. For many father-son duos, bonding over Marvel comics and movies is a fun idea, and matching tattoos can symbolize this shared interest and add sentimental value to their relationship.
42. Quote puzzle
Meaningful quotes are a popular choice for tattoos. To share a matching tattoo with your son, consider getting half of the quote inked on you and the other half on your son. The full quote will be visible when you’re together, symbolizing how you complete each other.
43. Go fishing
Fishing is a great way for fathers and sons to bond, creating cherished memories and teaching essential lessons from childhood to adulthood. If those fishing trips mean a lot to the father and son, they can consider getting matching fishing tattoos to mark those memories.
44. The basketball league
Getting matching tattoos with the phrases or symbols of their favorite basketball league can be an excellent way for a father and son to share their love for the game. These tattoos can also remind them of their fun times together, like going to league games, supporting their favorite teams, and playing basketball in the backyard.
45. Music notes
What could be better for a musical father-son duo than to get music note tattoos to emphasize their love for music? Ink your favorite melodies to express appreciation for those notes, which might also carry emotional sentiments tied to beautiful memories.
46. Wolf
Wolves are not only strong and fierce but also known for their loyalty to their pack. Matching wolf tattoos can symbolize commitment, strength, resilience, and family love.
47. Marksman
Gun tattoos make for an eye-catching and popular tattoo choice and denote the shared passion of a father-son duo for firearms, hunting, or marksmanship. Such a tattoo can remind them of their bonding experiences during hunting trips or shooting sports.
48. Faith tattoo
Whether you express your faith in each other or symbolize your religious beliefs, matching ‘faith’ tattoos can be meaningful for a father and son. These tattoos also represent a father and his son’s unwavering love and faith in one another in the name of God, in the belief that God will always guide them in the right direction.
49. Hourglass
An hourglass tattoo is a popular, unique, and stylish choice for a father and son tattoo. These tattoos can symbolize the passage of time between father and son, reminding them both to cherish every moment spent together.
50. Angel
A father is like a guardian angel, always watching over his children. To celebrate this beautiful relationship and appreciate the incredible father-son bonding, getting matching father-son angel tattoos can be a great idea.
51. Rose with thorns
A rose tattoo is a common choice among enthusiasts, but opting for a rose with thorns tattoo can be a unique and intriguing idea. These tattoos not only exude beauty and boldness but also symbolize that every joy and happiness is earned through challenges and hardships. As the father bears the struggles and pain for the family, this matching tattoo idea can express your love and appreciation for him.
52. Cloud
As clouds change shape and color, the father-son relationship evolves through various stages. As illustrated in this tattoo idea, the father becomes a protector, guide, mentor, and friend in his son’s life.
53. Zodiac sign
If both the father and son believe in astrology, getting matching zodiac sign tattoos can be a great idea. You can choose each other’s zodiac signs or pick from various cool designs of your zodiac signs.
54. Patriotic tattoo
A patriotic tattoo of a national flag or emblem is a great way for a father and son to express their love for their country. It can help strengthen their bond as they share a sense of nationality and pride in their homeland.
55. Star Wars
From Jedi masters to the Dark Lord and the fantastic designs and characters in the movie series, this theme makes a great tattoo idea. So, a father and son getting matching Star Wars tattoos can show their shared interest in Star Wars.
56. Feather
A feather design is a fantastic tattoo idea as it is not just a beautiful design but also holds special meaning. It could represent lightness, freedom, and lifting each other when feeling low.
57. Samurai warrior
Samurai warriors are famous for their hard training, strength, and disciplined lives. So, if a father and son get matching samurai warrior tattoos, it can symbolize their mutual respect for discipline, honor, and strength.
58. Geometric prints
Geometric print tattoos on both the father and son can be a unique and artistic way to show their special bond and shared interests. These tattoos symbolize their close and organized connection, as geometric prints represent order and unity. Pick a design that means the most to both of you.
59. Bible verse
Matching Bible verse tattoos can display a father and son’s common religious beliefs. If a particular Bible verse is meaningful to you or reflects your relationship perfectly, getting such matching tattoos could be a spiritually significant and inspiring choice.
60. Spider
An aesthetic spider tattoo has an eye-pleasing design and represents strength and power, underscoring the shared capacity of the father and son duo to tackle life’s challenges with determination.
61. Traditional tribal tattoo
Matching traditional tribal tattoos can serve as a link to your family’s history and the culture you share. These tattoos stand for the power, togetherness, and customs passed on for ages. They celebrate one’s pride in their cultural identity and the bonds forged within their tribal community.
62. Ace of spades
Ace is the highest authoritative card in a deck. Therefore, getting a matching father and son ‘Ace of Spades’ tattoos can show the authoritarian father figure in them. These tattoos can also appreciate the risk-taking and adventurous spirit of this duo.
63. Botanical tattoo
If you and your father love nature, and the scenic beauty of flora and fauna in a botanical garden fascinates you, consider getting a botanical tattoo with your father.
64. Gramophone
As a classy musical instrument, the gramophone could be an interesting tattoo idea for the father-son duo to show their love for vintage music and classic tunes. These tattoos can also remind them of sweet memories of listening to the timeless melodies of those vinyl records.
65. Sobriety tattoo
Matching sobriety tattoos can represent the father and son’s dedication to a sober and healthy lifestyle, promoting the values of mutual support and endurance.
66. Cartoon character
Tattoos of cartoon characters can be a fun way for a father and son to remember their favorite childhood cartoons. These tattoos can also bring back happy memories of watching cartoons together and sharing laughter.
67. Motorcycle tattoo
Getting matching motorcycle tattoos can express the love between a father and son who enjoy riding together and the sense of freedom it brings. This tattoo idea can also highlight their shared passion for open roads, adventure, and the excitement of riding bikes while spending quality time together.
68. Sanskrit phrases
Sanskrit has meaningful phrases that represent the father-son bond and their values. These tattoos symbolize the wisdom and beauty in Sanskrit texts; however, you must learn their meanings before getting inked.
69. WWE tattoo
WWE wrestling championships are popular among men. If you and your son enjoy watching these games, think about getting matching WWE tattoos featuring superstars or symbols. These tattoos celebrate the memorable matches, catchphrases, and championships you have cheered for together.
70. Toy story
Father and son can select Toy Story tattoos to show their strong connection to Disney-Pixar films. These tattoos symbolize the enchantment of toys coming to life, just like their special bond, similar to Woody and Buzz. Think about your favorite Toy Story characters to get tattooed with your dad and embrace your inner child.
71. Pet tattoo
If you have pets like a dog, cat, or other animals at home, you could get matching tattoos with your father. These tattoos symbolize your adoration for your furry or feathered friends and the lasting memories you have created together.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the significance of father-son tattoos?
Father and son tattoos are a wonderful way to express love and gratitude for one another. Tattoos are usually for a lifetime. Thus, these tattoos will serve as a cherished and lifelong memory.
2. What are some tips for choosing a father-son tattoo design?
Before choosing a tattoo design, make sure you understand the tattoo’s meaning, the location where it will be inked, and whether or not it signifies the father-son connection. Once you have figured it out and it works well for you, pick an experienced tattoo artist to do it.
Getting a tattoo is a big decision as it is a permanent marking on your body that stays for a lifetime. Going for father-son tattoos will reflect your personalities and bonding with each other. It should be unique to both of you and therefore holds a special meaning. It can be a religious symbol or something you both have fond memories of. As long as either of you doesn’t have any health issues and gets tattooed by a professional, getting inked can be your way of staying connected and keeping the bond strong.
Infographic: Perfect Tattoos To Reflect A Father-Son Bond
Nowadays, having a matching tattoo with your partner and best friend is trending. So why not get matching tattoos with your parents to show your deep love and a great bond? Below are some cool and interesting tattoo ideas you may try with your father. Check out and share them with your friends. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Key Pointers
- A matching father-son tattoo symbolizes your strong and beautiful bond with each other.
- You may tattoo the religious values you share or your priorities, such as putting family first.
- You may get inked with some sweet gestures, including a fist bump.
- Phrases, common interests, and many more unique tattoo ideas as you scroll through.
Image: Dall·E/MomJunction Design Team
Get immersed in the inspiring tattoo collection and uncover the ideal designs that resonate with you and your beloved father. Look out for this incredible video featuring 50 extraordinary father-son tattoos!
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Ashley BaldwinLicensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Baldwin is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in Perinatal Health. After her Master's in Counseling, she did certifications in Perinatal Mental Health and is a Certified Addictions Counselor (CACII) with around 13 years of counseling experience.
Read full bio of Ashley Baldwin
Shikha ThakurMBA
Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.
Read full bio of Shikha Thakur
Akshay NairMA
Akshay is an associate editor and former journalist with more than four years of experience. A post graduate in Mass Communication and Journalism, he has strong professional and academic background in the field of content writing and editing.
Read full bio of Akshay Nair
