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: Michael Picard
- Location: Prescott, AZ
- Stores: 1
- Date Opened: December 1, 2012
- Tanning Systems: 8 (Dr. Miller, Solar Systems)
- Locations: Designer Skin, Pro Tan & Supre Tan
- Software: SunEase
- Other Services: Airbrush Tanning (Fake Bake)
- Distributor Partner: Tan International
- Staff: 4
When his friend wanted to sell her business, Tropical Island Tanning Etc., Michael Picard decided to purchase the aging salon and pursue the American Dream. Though remodeling the facility and installing new tanning equipment was a difficult task, he says the “elbow grease” was worth the effort. “We’re in a small town, so word started to spread about us taking ownership of the salon,” said Michael. “Since the previous owner sold it to us rather quickly, and had never kept computerized records, many former clients were concerned about possibly losing their recently purchased memberships. We honored everyone’s membership for one month, and offered them discounts on their next purchase, which they all appreciated.” Today, clients new and old are drawn to Tropical Island Tanning’s friendly service, which is provided by Michael, his girlfriend, Season Hallett, and her son, Hunter. “Without my family, this would not be possible,” he added.
Michael says he and his family enjoy tanning salon ownership so much that they’re willing to do it again, and soon! “We just invested in a new logo and signage, so the Tropical Island Tanning name continues to be recognized by everyone,” he said. “As we keep gaining new clients through our Facebook advertising and other marketing strategies, we’re considering opening one or two more salons in the area. In fact, we already have a place in mind for our second store and we’d like to have it up and running within the next 12 months.” In the meantime, Michael and his family will continue doing what they love – helping their clients, whom they consider extended family, develop beautiful tans and the smiles that come with them.
Thanks for helping us welcome Michael Picard and his family to the indoor tanning community – we’re sure they’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!
