Sunlife Tanning Studio | Waunakee, WI

This charming salon in southern Wisconsin is more than just a place to get a golden glow – it’s a community-centered business that prides itself on top-notch customer service and a welcoming atmosphere. At the heart of it all is Owner Jenny Dean, who brings over two decades of passion and tanning industry experience to Sunlife Tanning Studio – our December Sun is Life “Salon of Distinction.”

From an unexpected start as a salon manager to launching her own business after a surprising “plot twist”, Jenny’s journey has been one of resilience, dedication and a love for the industry that she couldn’t ignore. She shared the highs and challenges of salon ownership, her commitment to exceptional customer care, and her vision for the salon’s future. Read on to discover what sets Sunlife Tanning Studio apart and why Jenny is so passionate about serving her customers and community.

IST: Tell us about your journey to the Tan Biz.

JD: Twenty years ago – OMG! I cannot believe it’s really been that long – I learned that the salon where I tanned was looking to hire a manager. At that time of my life, my dream job was to work with dolphins in some way, and since that wasn’t going to happen, managing a tanning salon moved up on my list. I applied, went through a couple interviews and was offered the job. This company had a chain of salons throughout Wisconsin and I would be managing their newest location that was set to open in a few months. So, right off the bat, not only was I able to jump in and learn the normal day-to-day operations, but I also got to be a part of the build-out process and all that goes into opening a new business in a new area. I was in heaven! I quickly worked my way up to managing multiple locations and then one day, they decided to fire me. That was when my dad, my husband and some of the salon staff encouraged me to open my own facility. I just didn’t have the money to do so, and still had so much more to learn about owning a business.

I absolutely loved the company I worked for – they were tough on their staff, but it taught me so much that I still implement today. Over the years, I have learned to put my own twist on things and treat my staff with much more respect, but still have the performance expectations that help set us apart from other salons.

I ended up going in a different direction into the beauty industry, and eventually opened my own lash & brow business. As much as I still LOVE that, my heart has always been with the tanning industry. And, I still had my husband and a few of the former salon staff telling me that I should buy a tanning salon!

Two different times, I heard of salons in my area that were selling and I went back and forth about buying, but never pulled the trigger. Until one day when I was tagged in a facebook post about another salon for sale; I’m not sure what it was this time, but I decided to reach out and get the deets. Within a week, they accepted my offer and I was the new owner! That was almost three years ago and my only regret is that I didn’t do it sooner!

Sunlife Guests Say

“Very welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. The owner cares about her clients. When you purchase the monthly premium package, you can tan after hours, which is really convenient.”

“The owner is so, so sweet. She is super personable and helpful, as well as gives really great guidance for products and services. I definitely am excited to have found this place!”

“I’ve had such a great experience at Sunlife. Jenny and everyone there have answered my questions. Jenny helped me find skincare suitable for my sensitive skin.”

“Love this place! I have been looking for a nice tanning place like this for a long time. Everyone is so welcoming and I absolutely love the atmosphere. It’s the little touches that make the difference.”

“A hometown salon … you can’t beat the vibes.”

IST: What challenges have you faced as a salon owner?

JD: My biggest challenge has been more of a personal one, having to transition back into a business model with hours of operation that need to be staffed. My lash & brow business is appointment-based and we manage our own schedules. If we have a block of time with no clients, we don’t have to be at the physical salon; if we want to take time off, we just manage our schedules accordingly. We currently offer 24-hour access for tanners in our membership program. I often consider going to a more self-operating format, but I like how it is currently structured. And even though I have been so lucky to have amazing staff, I definitely see a huge difference in the number of applications from people wanting part-time jobs now than 20 years ago.

IST: What are some ways Sunlife supports the local community?

JD: It’s very important to me that we support our community! Sunlife donates to many schools, organizations and fundraisers throughout the year. We do our best to focus on causes that are personally meaningful to our team. We are members of our local Chamber of Commerce, and get involved with local events as much as possible.

IST: What do you feel sets your salon apart from your competitors?

JD: That’s easy: AMAZING customer service and exceptional cleaning standards! I want every person walking through our door to feel over-the-top welcomed. They are family to us – I know that’s cliché, but it really is true. I always say that we don’t have all the newest, fanciest equipment, but we do have the best customer service and the cleanest environment. We also have a Norvell Certified Spray-Tan Artist on staff, and have been voted Waunakee’s Best Tanning Salon!

IST: How would you describe the atmosphere at your salon?

JD: Warm and welcoming! Everyone is greeted by a friendly “hello”. There are comfy seats and TV or music is on for anyone having to wait. We offer an option for guests to leave their tanning lotions here, so they never have to worry about forgetting them. We always provide free eyewear and stickers, towels and other personal care items. Each room has an Alexa to use, and we do all the clean-up!

IST: What was your biggest takeaway from the Sun is Life Salon Operator Training?

JD: I remember back when I started in the industry how much training and education helped me understand the ins/outs of light therapy, how it affects our skin, what is good and what is bad, etc. and I want that same experience for my staff. The training helps every team member to feel comfortable and confident to answer any questions, and explain the differences in our bed levels, recommended tanning schedules for each person, lotions and so much more.

I plan to continue with more training and education for all staff. I love the professionalism that comes with their knowledge!

IST: What are your goals for Sunlife in the next 1-3 years?

JD: I plan to continue making updates to the salon and am working on implementing new equipment. We will continue our training/education plans, growing our customer base and working with higher sales goals. Eventually, we will add another location!