Relationships change, but tattoos are forever. Which is probably why couple tattoos can sometimes get a bad rap. We've all heard a horror story about that friend of a friend who got matching tattoos with her other half, only to make a beeline to Dr. Removal six months later. But according to pro tattoo artists, couple tattoos don't have to come with regret.

"Tattoos are bookmarks of moments in our life, good and bad," says tattooist Zoey Taylor, owner of The Warren in West Hollywood, California. "Tattoos that have personal meaning inside and outside of your relationship will always feel special, even if things don't play out the way that you hope they will. I share many tattoos with friends and exes."

So what's the difference between a couples tattoo you'll love forever and one you're guaranteed to lament?

"I know from experience that name tattoos are some of the most common tattoos that end up getting covered up," says tattoo artist Tim Lebron of The Honorable Society in Los Angeles. Because while an image can have many meanings, which can even change as you grow, "a name is just a name."

But let's say you're a hopeless romantic, committed to the idea of getting a couple's tattoo. "Remember to have fun with it," Taylor advises. "A reminder of where you met, that movie you both love, your song, the cartoon character that you remind them of. If the two of you love to play chess, each of you could get a chess piece."

Couple tattoos don't necessarily need to match, adds Lebron. Whatever the design, all that matters is that it makes you think fondly of the other person. "As time goes on and people inevitably change -- and in worst-case scenarios go their separate ways -- those tattoos that reflect on good times work as souvenirs rather than blaring regrets," he says.

With that in mind, we've put together a little inspiration. Here, 21 couple tattoo ideas that you'll always think of fondly.

Image via @midocca

This elegant couple tattoo idea represents your side-by-side flight through life. We love that even though they're matching tattoos, the designs aren't too cutesy.

Reflect on your celestial connection with this delicately outlined sun-moon pairing.

Is your love too vibrant for black-and-gray? Try a multi-colored tattoo design, like these vivid, paint-splattered hearts.

When choosing a couples tattoo, err on the subtle side with these sleek, inverted triangles, which unite you with just a few lines.