You’ve seen her in evening gowns for over forty years, gliding across a stage and turning letters with a smile that never seems to dim. But recently, Vanna White did something that nobody—not even Vanna herself—expected. At 68, the Wheel of Fortune legend sat down in a leather chair, rolled up her sleeve, and let a needle pierce her skin.
Why now? Because the person holding the tattoo machine wasn't just some random professional. It was her daughter.
Honestly, the vanna white daughter tattoo artist story is one of those rare celebrity family pivots that actually feels authentic. While many "nepo babies" are busy trying to land reality shows or runway gigs, Giovanna “Gigi” Santo Pietro decided to build a career in a world of ink, needles, and permanent skin art. She’s not just a hobbyist, either. She’s a resident pro at one of the trendiest spots in California.
Who Exactly is Gigi Santo Pietro?
Born on July 1, 1997, Gigi is the youngest child of Vanna and her ex-husband, restauranteur George Santo Pietro. For a long time, it looked like she might follow a more traditional "artsy" path. She headed east to New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, where she focused on photography and imaging.
If you look at her early work, you can see the eye for detail. But something changed during her time in New York. Photography is great, but it’s digital. It’s fleeting. Tattooing? That’s forever.
Gigi eventually moved back to Los Angeles. When she told her mom she wanted to be a tattoo artist, Vanna was, understandably, a little surprised. "I never dreamed she'd be a tattoo artist," Vanna admitted to People. But the explanation Gigi gave her changed everything. Gigi told her: "Mom, my art is on someone’s body for the rest of their lives."
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That kind of weight is hard to argue with.
Where the Vanna White Daughter Tattoo Artist Works
If you’re looking to get some work done by the daughter of a TV icon, you’ll need to head to Lincoln Tattoo Company in Venice, California. This isn't some dark, intimidating basement shop. It’s a bright, high-end studio that fits the Venice vibe perfectly.
What’s her style like?
Gigi’s portfolio isn't full of the "glam" you might associate with her mother’s TV wardrobe. Instead, she leans into:
- Blackwork and Fine Line: Clean, precise lines that require a steady hand.
- Illustrative Designs: Often featuring flowers, animals, and intricate figures.
- Topless Feminine Silhouettes: A recurring theme in her more artistic, personal sketches.
- Small, Meaningful Symbols: Like the one she gave her mom.
She’s spent about three years honing the craft, and from the look of her work on Instagram (@gigisantopietro), she’s developed a signature look that’s moody, delicate, and very "LA cool."
The Moment Vanna Got Inked
For years, Vanna talked about getting a tattoo. She told reporters she wanted "matching hearts" with Gigi. In March 2025, it finally happened.
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The video Vanna posted to Instagram was honestly kind of adorable. You see the Wheel of Fortune star—who is usually the epitome of poise—looking genuinely terrified. "I'm shaking," she told the camera. She even joked that she might pass out.
Gigi, meanwhile, was the total professional. She prepped her mom’s inner wrist and got to work.
The result? A tiny, delicate heart outlined in hot pink.
Vanna’s reasoning for the placement was sweet: "I can look at it every day because she did it." It’s a 180-degree turn for a woman who has spent her entire life maintaining a very specific, polished image for the American public.
It’s Not Just a Trend
Some people might think this is just a phase, but the vanna white daughter tattoo artist career path seems pretty solidified. Gigi has spoken about how the craft keeps her up at night. She’s obsessed with the "no mistakes" aspect of it. On television, if Vanna trips or a letter glitches, they can edit it out or laugh it off. In tattooing, there is no "undo" button.
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That pressure is clearly something Gigi thrives on.
She also stays surprisingly low-key. Aside from the occasional appearance on her mother’s social media—like when she met Snoop Dogg (she’s a massive fan)—Gigi stays out of the Hollywood limelight. She lets her art do the talking.
Practical Insights for Fans and Art Seekers
If you're inspired by Gigi's career or looking to book a session at her shop, here’s what you need to know about the professional side of this story.
- Check the Portfolio First: Tattooing is subjective. While Gigi is "Vanna White's daughter," her style is very specific. Look at her "Blackwork" pieces before booking to ensure her aesthetic matches your vision.
- The "Pink" Factor: Vanna chose pink ink, which is notoriously tricky. If you're looking for colored fine-line work like Vanna’s heart, ask about the longevity of the pigment. Lighter colors like pink tend to fade faster than black.
- Booking is a Process: Professional artists at shops like Lincoln Tattoo Company usually work by appointment. Don't expect to walk in and get the "Vanna Special" immediately.
- Support the Artist, Not Just the Name: The most respectful way to engage with Gigi's work is to value the technical skill she’s spent years developing at NYU and in her apprenticeship.
If you’re in the Los Angeles area and want to see the work for yourself, you can find Gigi Santo Pietro at Lincoln Tattoo Company in Venice. Whether you want a tiny heart or a massive illustrative piece, it’s clear she’s carved out a legacy that has nothing to do with turning letters and everything to do with making a permanent mark.