The indoor tanning industry is an enjoyable one and there are so many positive things here for everyone to enjoy. For example, more and more people are following their dreams of becoming their own bosses by opening and operating tanning salons. Since these “newbies” continue to strengthen our industry, ist Magazine wishes to recognize them with this monthly “Welcome Wagon” series. We invite you, our loyal readers, to join us in giving them the friendly greeting they deserve!
- Stores: 1
- Location: Wake Forest, NC
- Opened: January 31, 2014
- Owner: Tammy & Dave Fellenstein
- Staff: 7
- Tanning Systems: 9 (Ergoline)
- Tanning Levels: 3
- Lotion Brands: Devoted Creations
- Software: SunLync
- Other Services: Sunless Tanning (Ergoline Sunstyle)
- Training: Sun is Life®
- Distribution Partner: Four Seasons Sales & Service
With its stylish, refined décor and attentive service, Tan Elegance offers guests in its Wake Forest, NC salon the ultimate tanning experience.
Tammy Fellenstein, who owns the business with her husband Dave, was initially inspired to create a unique salon that pampers its guests based on her own experiences with tanning. An avid tanner, she used to drive miles from Wake Forest to Raleigh find a salon with quality, high-end units. One day, following her regular excursion, Dave asked her, “Why don’t you open the kind of salon you like close to home?” This got Tammy thinking about the possibility of taking all the features she’d enjoy as a tanning client and making them standard details of her own salon. Of course, the idea of going into business wasn’t a big stretch; the former elementary school teacher also owns and operates Jumpin’ Beans, an inflatable indoor playground company.
While Tan Elegance is located in a place called The Factory – a renovated manufacturing facility that now houses businesses – its look is decidedly upscale. Tammy said this ambience was important in creating a boutique feel that sets it apart from the franchise operations in the market. Tan Elegance’s décor features chandeliers, hardwood floors and modular walls with custom-made crown molding, as well as nine Ergoline tanning units. “When people take a tour of our salon and see the tanning units all lit up,” she said, “they’re very impressed.” Tan Elegance is a Devoted Creations Five-Star Diamond salon and Tammy says the company’s advanced blends of tanning and skincare ingredients are a big hit with her female clientele. “My staff and I had a training session with a Devoted Creations rep,” she added, “and that really helped us improve the level of service we give our salon guests.”
Earning Sun Is Life® Certification at a recent tanning industry event prepared Tammy and Dave for salon ownership. “We love everything about Sun Is Life training,” she said, “especially how the program promotes the look good/feel good concept.” Two Tan Elegance staff members also took Sun Is Life training and Tammy describes it as a useful experience that taught them the foundation needed to be successful and effective salon professionals. “We took the training before we opened our business,” she added, “and my staff is already using much of what they learned.”
Although she’s been a salon operator for just a few months, Tammy says she loves it so much that she hopes to expand her business. “If we continue to do as well as we are right now,” she said, “I could see us possibly opening another location next year. I could even foresee a third and fourth facility sometime in the future.” Meanwhile, Tammy, Dave and their children – Allison (16) and Brandon (14) – will continue enjoying their connection with their community from behind the counter at Tan Elegance. “I love talking with our guests, making them feel special and helping them achieve the look and feeling that tanning can offer,” she added. “I couldn’t ask for a better career!”
Thanks for helping us welcome Tammy and Dave Fellenstein to the indoor tanning community. We look forward to meeting many more new faces and salon places in the months to come. Until then… stay sunny!
