As indoor tanning professionals, there are so many positive things happening in our beloved industry for us to enjoy. For example, there seems to be a large number of people opening tanning salons these days. Perhaps they didn’t pay attention to all the “doom and gloom” that some have been preaching – instead, these entrepreneurs are choosing to follow their instincts and pursue the American Dream, which continues to make our industry stronger. ist Magazine wishes to recognize these tanning “newbies” with this monthly “Welcome Wagon” series, and we invite you, our loyal readers, to join us in giving them the friendly greeting they deserve!
- Owner: Jennifer Blackburn
- Location: Dayton, OH
- Date Openend: December 1, 2012
- Tanning Systems: 11 (Ergoline)
- Staff: 4
- Other Services: Airbrush Tanning (Norvell Skin Solutions), Eyelash Extensions,
- Makeup & Sunless Tanning (California Tan)
- Lotions: Australian Gold, California Tan, Designer Skin, Devoted Creations,
- Pro Tan, Supre Tan, and TAN ASZ U
- Software: SunLync
- Distribution Partner: Suntan Supply
When it comes to opening a tanning salon, Jennifer Blackburn is someone who knows how to put a plan together. Last December, the 26-year-old bartender saved $40,000 and used it to start Sunkissed Tanning & Beauty in Dayton, OH. “The choice seemed natural since I’ve always wanted to own my business and I’ve been tanning indoors since I was 21,” said Jennifer. “The only other tanning businesses in town were a large, franchise facility and a small, out-of-the-way salon, so I knew the area had room for one more.” When Jennifer began offering UV tanning, sunless and beauty services to the people of Dayton, business was slow at first. “I did anything and everything to get the word out about Sunkissed, including sending Facebook messages to people within a 20-mile radius, and I posted flyers all over town,” she said. “This helped, as did Suntan Supply’s expo, which I attended in December. I learned so much about salon operations at the event, and I’ve used that information to help grow Sunkissed.”
These days, Jennifer says Sunkissed is thriving, and her success continues to inspire her. “Fortunately, I’ve been able to overcome all of the obstacles that most new salon owners encounter,” she said. “Now, the community is supporting us and recommending Sunkissed to their friends and family. Since things started picking up, I can see myself opening another location within a year.” Until then, Jennifer says she’ll enjoy being her own boss and helping clients look and feel their best.
Thanks for helping us welcome Jennifer Blackburn to the indoor tanning community – we’re sure she’ll like it here! In the meantime, look forward to meeting many more new faces and salon places in the months to come. Until then… stay sunny!
