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!
- Location: West Plains, MO
- Opened: August 2013
- Owners: Kayla & Jared Ball
- Tanning Units: 6 (SonnenBräune, Star Dazzler, Starship & Sundash)
- Tanning Levels: 3
- Staff: 10
- Other Services: Custom Spray-Tanning (Norvell) & Red Light Therapy
- Lotions: Devoted Creations 5-Star Diamond Salon
- Software: Quickbooks Point of Sale
- Training: Sun Is Life® & Norvell University
- Distribution Partner: Four Seasons Sales & Service, Heartland Tanning, Inc.
Knockouts Tanning Salon has given one couple, one salon and one community more than just a fighting chance at success.
The local salon where Kayla Ball once tanned was in perfect shape when she and her husband Jared Ball left West Plains, MO. Upon returning a few years later, they discovered that the business had fallen upon hard times. “When we were told that the former owner wanted to sell,” said Kayla, “I thought it was a perfect opportunity to turn it around and bring back its former glory. My husband and I wrote the check for the business on August 7 and literally took over that day. We also purchased another tanning salon about two hours away and transferred its units to Knockouts.”
Although Kayla and Jared had owned other businesses, the two didn’t have any experience in tanning salon operation. This is why she believes that earning Sun Is Life® certification was such a big help. “The program offered so much valuable information,” Kayla said. “From properly sanitizing tanning units to the science of UV light and tanning, everything we’ve learned has helped us to be successful and professional salon owners.” Sun Is Life’s message – that salon owners should not make health claims about their services – has hit home with Kayla, and she’s glad to have been offered such guidance as part of her training and certification.
Now that they’ve established the reputation of Knockouts Tanning Salon, Kayla and Jared have a three-year plan to ensure the business lives up to its name. “Our goal is to build a new facility that will house our salon and a boxing-fitness gym,” she said. “This will allow gym members the option to tan, while non-gym guests can still enjoy the salon the way they’ve always known it.” Kayla and Jared plan to continue their commitment to the community by finding ways to give back. She says she also plans to continue taking the time to get to know each guest who walks through her salon’s doors. “We want everyone to know that we’re not just a business here, we’re part of the community,” she said.
Thanks for helping us welcome Kayla and Jared Ball 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!
