Hi Katie! Tell us your story. Why did you you decide to start a spray tan business?

I have always been a sucker for a good spray tan. Even back in the early 2000s when they first came out. I was doing hair then and very interested in adding the service to my menu. I was young, newly married, and soon found out I was pregnant. Once I had my oldest daughter, I decided to stay home with her. Soon a 2nd daughter followed. I was enjoying being home with them but knew that one day I would return to the beauty industry in some way.

For many years I was getting spray tans in the Mystic Tan booths. These were ok, but once I had my first in person tan, my life changed and I’m not even kidding. I walked away from that appointment in 2015 saying, I could do that. I looked in to getting certified that day, but struggled to find something that was affordable and close to me in Northern Minnesota. It was put off once again as I still had young girls at home that I was very busy with.

Fast forward to 2022, I was in Florida for my sister’s wedding and got a spray tan from a great artist in the Clearwater area. I was talking to her about how I always wanted to be a spray tan artist and she was like, omg you should totally do it. She told me about how the industry advanced and that certification classes are available all over now, and you can even get certified online. That day I went to Google and Instagram. I researched the crap out of it until I found Bronze Boss. Once I saw her Instagram and website, I knew this was the training platform for me.

It took me a few more months to convince myself and my husband that this is what I really wanted to do. Once I decided I was going in 100%, I never looked back and I am so glad I didn’t.

That’s such an inspiring journey seeing you started out as a mobile artist before transitioning to a studio space. Can you tell us more about that evolution and the services you offer now?

When I originally started 218 Tan, I was strictly a mobile artist. I would travel all around Northern Minnesota and Wisconsin to see clients. This was great, but I knew I wanted more. After almost a year of mobile tanning, I saw a studio space pop up for rent. I didn’t know if I was actually ready for a studio space. I had plenty of clients, but would it be enough to maintain a studio? My landlord agreed 3 month trial with me. This was perfect, and let me tell you, those first three months EXCEEDED my expectations.

It sounds like that leap really paid off! How are you enjoying your role as both a spray tan artist and business owner?

I love being a spray tan artist and small business owner. I love setting my own schedule and having the flexibility to pick my girls up from school, attend their sporting events, and take vacations without having to get approval from a boss. I love meeting new people and so many of clients have turned in to friends.

That flexibility must be so rewarding! But, every journey has its challenges. What obstacles have you faced so far, and how have you managed them?

The biggest challenge I have experienced so far is learning how to be a small business owner. I definitely jumped in to it with zero clue how to run a business and I am learning as I go. I quickly realized the importance of a good accountant and lawyer. I know it’s an expense, but it is well worth it in the long run.

It’s great that you recognized the importance of those resources early on. Speaking of achievements, what are some wins you’re particularly proud of in your sunless tanning business?

Oh, so many! I feel that just starting a small business at 39 years old and being successful has been a huge win for me. My husband was so skeptical when I told him I wanted to be a spray tan artist. He was always supportive, but just didn’t realize that woman are willing to pay a premium price for something that makes them feel comfortable and confident. Also, I have 2 teenage girls, and showing them that no matter what stage of life you are at, you can be successful. When you work hard, you are rewarded.

That’s such an empowering message for your daughters! Now, you mentioned your training with Bronze Boss earlier—how has that experience shaped your skills as an artist?

Bronze Boss has been great! When I did my sunless certification, I opted to do it online. I loved the convenience of it and how it was self paced. When it was time for contour certification, I decided to travel to Austin and train with Sheridan. This was an invaluable experience. She not only trained me in contour but also helped me master my technique in spray tanning.