Archive for April, 2012
Pool Opening
This time of year I like to put in extra time in the gym. My goal is to shed the last of my winter weight ahead of swim season. In my apartment complex the outdoor pool usually opens on Memorial Day weekend; however, with unseasonably warm weather expected sooner rather than later, the management has been considering opening the pool early.
I’m thrilled by the prospect. I currently pay a month to month membership at a local gym just to be able to use their lap pool. With my own complex’s pool opening soon, if I wake up early enough I can swim laps for free without being disturbed by the neighborhood kids who will likely be asleep. Just a few more pounds and a spray tan and I’ll be ready for the pool’s seasonal grand opening!
Taking Advantage of Sunshine
This past weekend the Seattle area experienced a bit of an early summer. Normally it stays gray and misty until late June or early July, but for two days we had zero rain, lots of sunshine, and a high of 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Everyone I knew was maximizing their outdoor time because it may be several more weeks before we see that kind of pleasant weather again.
I took advantage of the gorgeous weather by testing out my new cycling gear. I took a ride out on Mercer Island, along with hundreds of other cyclists it seemed. The only downside is that even though I used sunscreen, I still have a weird looking farmer’s tan. Oh well. I guess I’ll just head over to the salon this week for a spray on tan to help even things out.
Bachelorette Party
Most women I’ve talked to are ecstatic right after they get engaged and cannot wait until they can start wedding plans. After getting a month or two into the process, it can become a nightmare. Finding a venue, haggling with vendors, butting heads with parents, and having to counter stupid questions like “Can my 12-year-old daughter bring a date to keep her company at the wedding?” (Seriously- you’re asking for a date for your 12-year-old? If it’s that big of a deal leave the kid at home or don’t come).
I know that by the time my bachelorette party neared I was beyond frazzled. Fortunately, my maid of honor knew exactly what sort of party I needed. Instead of a big crazy drunken blow-out, she arranged for a spa weekend. She booked a suite at a fancy hotel downtown and ordered mani-pedis, a mobile tanning booth, and facials for me and the rest of the bridal party. It was just what I needed and I felt so much more relaxed than I had felt in months.
Capitalizing on Sunless Tanning
Even in times of economic uncertainty, women (and some men) are hard pressed to give up on their beauty regimens. Having a sun kissed tan is a must have for most individuals. They’ll switch to a cheaper brand of mascara or lip gloss, but they’ll continue paying $120 for a good looking spray on tan.
Two years ago I decided to capitalize on this phenomenon and started my own mobile sunless tanning company. It took several months to build up a clientele, but now I have a list of regulars and more appointments than I can handle. I’ve been investing profits back into my company and I’m thinking of hiring a second technician to expand the company further, just to keep up with the demand.
In-House Salon
Whenever I host a large party, I don’t like to leave the house day-of. Rather than going to the salon to have my skin, hair, nails, and make-up done, I have the professionals come to me. My make-up girl, who I’ve been using for several years, has some wonderful contacts.
She set everything up for me before my latest event. She called in a mobile spray tanning company and had her best hair and nails girl assist her for the day. By having the salon in my home, I was able to keep an eye on the party set-up while also being made up for the event. You can be sure that I gave my make-up girl and her co-workers huge tips for being so accommodating.
Prom Season
Prom season is almost upon us. I was shopping for a new outfit for work when I spotted the first frilly, glittering, brightly colored prom dresses. In the dressing room, the teenage girl in the next room over kept shouting to her friend, “What do you think of this one?!”
I swear I wasn’t trying to eavesdrop; they were so loud I couldn’t help but hear. Once they’d found their gowns the conversation quickly turned to shoes, accessories, and make-up. Apparently, there’s a new airbrush tanning system in place at the local salon that is supposed to be outstanding. I think I’ll check it out once prom season is over.
Sally’s Salon Success
Sally, the owner of the self-titled “Sally’s Salon,” has become a good friend of mine over the years. (This is to be expected given that I’ve visited the salon nearly every other week for more than three years now). Since her store first opened the clientele has grown steadily. A salon just a few blocks over has not fared as well over the years.
I mentioned this to Sally and asked her why she thinks her salon has done so much better. “Homework,” she replied. Before she opened her salon she did a lot of research into how to start a tanning salon business. From location to products to staff hiring she learned every little detail, so when it was time to open the business she had a detailed plan in place.
Lifting Spirits
It always amazes me how pampering myself just a tiny bit can instantly lift my spirits. Getting my nails done or even getting a haircut makes me feel refreshed. Getting a spray tan is a bit more of a splurge than the $20 I would normally spend on manicure or a blow-out, so I usually reserve tanning for special occasions or when I need a real pick-me-up.
Last week, I finally got over a nasty case of the flu that prevented me from attending my best friend’s birthday bash. To cheer myself up – and get back to a less sickly looking color- I booked a salon date for myself and my best friend. The salon used a state of the art airbrush tanning system that left both of our skins looking flawless. That definitely put a bounce back in my step!