“Having been raised by a single mother and watching her work multiple jobs, I gained a strong work ethic and was very driven for success.”

Island Tan Salon & Spa is a unique mix of a savvy spa and a retail clothing and accessories boutique with collections from local designers.

Owner, Manna Kadar purchased Island Tan Salon & Spa in 2008, expanded into a 2nd location in 2009 and is in the process of searching for a 3rd location. They have grown at a pace of 30% a year in a poor economy which is something truly spectacular.

MO:
Why did you decide to buy a Tanning Salon & Spa?

Manna:
I wanted to pursue an industry I was passionate about-beauty. I knew I would never get bored and would always have a thirst for knowledge in this arena and it has proved to be true. By staying on the cutting edge of beauty treatments, trends, etc., we have set ourselves apart from the competition and have created a unique business model.

MO:
In such a bad economy many people are cutting back, tell us about the decision to expand and what the challenges were in doing so?

Manna:
I felt despite a poor overall economy, there were great opportunities for growth. It truly is survival of the fittest and the businesses that are not being run properly were being weeded out. I sought out salons that were not being manged properly and was able to purchase my second location for pennies on the dollar. Since I opened in the area, all other salons except for one have closed down. The primary challenge is getting creative with marketing to draw customers in. For example, we started offering payment plans to customers who could not pay for a package in full, but were able to budget a certain dollar amount to be paid over 2-3 months.

MO:
You offer UV & UV-Free tanning services. Which of these types of tanning is more profitable for you, do you see a trend toward the UV-Free services because of health concerns?

Manna:
UV Tanning is definitely more profitable than UV-Free Tanning, however, with the popularity of UV-Free Tanning, we have seen a shift in sales toward UV-Free services. Each year, more and more people are turning to UV-Free alternatives to achieve a beautifully bronzed glow. We distinguish ourselves by using the most cutting edge equipment and solution for Custom Airbrush tanning and have clients driving up to 3 hours to get sprayed at our salon.

MO:
Can you tell us more about your personal background and how it has helped you in business today?

Manna:
I grew up in a lower class community where violence/gangs/drugs were a way of life. Having been raised by a single mother and watching her work multiple jobs, I gained a strong work ethic and was very driven for success. As a business owner, you are always working. I understand what it takes for to build a business and am unwavering in my quest to grow my company.

MO:
Why did you decide to feature local designers in your boutique section instead of simply buying from a national supplier?

Manna:
I wanted to support local designers and give back and the local community is the reason why I can keep my doors open everyday. I build great relationships with local designers, who in turn, tell people about the salon and bring in new customers.

MO:
How do you use Facebook to connect to your customer base?

Manna:
Facebook is used to keep in touch with our clients. It is the “Face” of Island Tan and we try to keep it personal by letting my customers in to my life as I get to know so many people personally. It keeps a connection between the customers and myself as well as share pertinent information, post specials, etc.