Tropical Obsession, Tanning Salon & Spa | Sebring, FL

This past April, Tropical Obsession hit a major milestone – celebrating five fabulous years in business! Even better? This family-owned salon has been crowned “Best of Highlands – Best Tanning Salon” AND “Best Day Spa” for five years running!

Co-owned by the dynamic mother-daughter duo of Debby Hirsh and Diana Lynn Walker, the salon has built a devoted fan base of customers who are totally “obsessed” with its exceptional service, friendly vibe and top-notch tanning and skincare products.

Diana, who’s not only a co-owner but also a Norvell Master-Certified spray-tan artist, loves giving people a sun-kissed glow-up. “It’s amazing what a spray tan can do for your confidence!” she says with a smile.

And it’s no surprise Tropical Obsession shines so bright – Diana has completed the Sun is Life® Salon Operator Training & Certification program created by IST Magazine. Read about Diana’s tanning journey and what customers have to say about their go-to tanning haven.

IST: How did you get started in the tanning business?

DW: Growing up in South Florida and always being by the beach, we never really heard about tanning salons – but when we moved to Central Florida, I took a part-time job at a salon and fell in love with the industry. After a few years of struggling in a position that showed no chance of advancement, I attended a tanning convention where I was mesmerized by Brandon Cardinal (Norvell) demonstrating a custom spray-tan – something that wasn’t offered in the salon where I had been working. I instantly sent a video to my mother, who replied “We should just open our own salon!” By the time I got home from the convention, she had everything ordered for me to begin learning how to do airbrush tans. We both attended the classes and have completed hands-on certification. The rest is history!

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

DW: After doing all the salon build-out ourselves, we were set to open the doors when COVID hit, and weren’t allowed to open for two months – that was tough. But, we used the time to sell hand sanitizer, tanning lotions and self-tanners curbside, which also gave us time to promote, educate and bond with our community. After four years of being open, our building was sold and we were forced to move and build again! Through these challenges, Mom and I have always believed that God has a plan and everything happens in HIS time; so, we just follow HIS lead.

IST: How does Tropical Obsession support the Sebring community?

DW: We try to give back as much as we can and support several local events by donating giveaways and door prize items to local nonprofit fundraisers. We often offer discounts to students who are tanning with us to prepare for their special events.

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

DW: We have the advantage of living in a small town community, so we like to provide that good, ol’ “Southern hometown” feel and make our guests feel comfortable while we provide personalized, one-on-one attention. We have formed friendships with our guests and treat everyone as if it’s their first time walking through our door. The Sun is Life Training provides the knowledge needed to educate them and promote responsible tanning practices, including appropriate session times customized to their skin type. We want them to reach their tan goals!

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

DW: Mom and I plan to keep glowing and hopefully growing by possibly opening a second facility!

Diana asked some Tropical Obsession tanners what makes the salon special. They described it as calming, relaxing, rejuvenating and welcoming. Here’s more of what they had to say:

“I love the inside look of the salon. It is professionally designed with all the amazing products and the decor is stunning with the color scheme and lighting. The tanning booths are immaculate and clean along with a great selection. The staff is very professional, engaging and knowledgeable! #1 in Florida to me!!”

– Robin Ward

“The salon is relaxing, welcoming and warm. Beds are amazing! Diana and Debby are what keep me coming back – I would never go anywhere else.”

– Denise Martin

“I love the purple lighting – very calming! The ambiance is super-relaxing and modern. The cleanest and most diverse salon in Highlands County!”

–Melissa Watson

“It’s fun, relaxing and organized! You can get in and out if you need to OR you can stay and chat and laugh. It’s a tropical therapy session when you need it.”

– Nancy DuVall

Salon Stats