After putting a ton of thought into this new life-changing adventure, you’ve finally done it! You’ve officially taken the leap to launch your mobile spray tanning business and we could not be more proud of you. We know this decision wasn’t easy, but when it comes down to it, you know that you’re capable of creating the life you want! It’s no secret this process requires a few important steps before you’re officially up and running. You’ve been busy getting all your ducks in a row, from choosing a cute af business name, registering for your business license, getting spray tan certified and even investing in all the products and equipment needed  to set you up for success.

All the hard work you’ve put in so far has officially landed you your first paying client! We have no doubt that you’re going to absolutely kill it because you’ve already gotten everything needed to create the most top notch client experience possible. If you’re having any doubts at all about how your appointment process will go, don’t worry, Glow Boss! We are here to teach you how to properly set up for your mobile tans in a way that is efficient and professional. However, first things first - let’s go through a checklist of what you’ll need to bring with you for your first appointment:

1. Mobile spray tan tent

2. Air compressor system

3. Spray tan gun

4. Backup spray tan gun (just in case)

5. Solutions of your choice

6. Barrier Cream

7. Prep spray

8. Gloves

9. Nose plugs

10. Hair nets

11. Sticky feet

12. Eye winkies

13. Baby wipes/paper towels

14. Two large towels

15. Face masks (optional)

16. Lighting system

17. Disposable undergarments

18. Drying powder (optional)

19. Brushes/buffing puffs

20. Chapstick/vaseline 

21. Extension cord

22. Extraction fan

There you have it! You may be thinking “over 20 items!?!” Looking at the list may feel overwhelming, especially since you’re a mobile artist that needs to travel with all of these items with you. But, most of these items are small,lightweight, easy to travel with and make all the difference in the overall experience your client will have during their time with you!

Now that you have your checklist to go off of, let’s walk through the step by step process to actually setting up your appointment. 

Step One

Typically the dimensions of a spray tan tent is about 6x4. Therefore, when you first arrive at your client’s location, you will have to find a spot big enough to fit your mobile pop-up tent that is in close proximity to an outlet. Once you’ve located an area in your client’s space, you can pop up your tent and start setting up! 

Step Two

Once you have your tent popped open, take out two full size towels that will be used to protect the clients feet from the bottom of the tent, will reduce a slipping hazard, provide a sanitary space to set your items and protect the clients floor from any overspray. Position one towel on the inside of the tent to cover the bottom and lay one horizontally parallel to the outer edge of your tent.

Step Three

You should always carry an extension cord with you because you never know what the space will look like when you’re working on another person’s location. The plug could be further away from the area the tent is set up in or your may just need more outlets than are provided in the room your tanning in. The third step is to take your extension cord and plug it into a nearby outlet.

Step Four

Take out your lighting system to plug in. You can use a ring light, string lights that attach to the inside of your tent or clamp lights that can be attached to the edge of either side of the tent. Bringing your own lighting is crucial because you want to make sure that despite any area you’re having to spray in that you have a good visual of your client while they’re in the tent. 

Step Five

Take out and organize everything you’ll be using during your appointment. This includes: Prep spray, barrier cream, gloves, nose plugs, hair nets, eye winkies, baby wipes, disposable underwear (in case it’s requested by the client), setting powder, face mask (if you choose to wear one to protect yourself from breathing in solution), chapstick, and brushes for buffing or fixing any mistakes. You’ll align all of your items and disposables on the towel in front of your tent for easy access during the appointment 

Step Six

Get out your compressor system, attach the hose and plug it in. 

Step Seven

If you already know what solution the client would like for their appointment, now is the time to fill your gun with the proper solution so that you’re ready to spray when the client steps in the tent. During your pre-tan consultation, make sure to discuss the solution options with your client and come to an agreement of what will work best for them! 

Step Eight

Set up and plug in an extraction fan. This is especially recommended if you’re spraying multiple clients at one time to help with ventilation and limit the amount of over spray that escapes the tent.

Step Nine

Position your sticky feet on either one of the towels so they are ready for you client to step on as they get into the tent. 

This may seem like a lot of information to remember between the amount of products and steps you’ll be in control of when setting up for your mobile appointment. However, you should remember that mobile appointments only take about 30 minutes, so all of this goes very quickly! Not to mention, once you get your first couple appointments down, you’ll be a pro at figuring out the best way to navigate a setup routine that works best for you! 

This checklist may have you realizing that you missed a few items that you want to include in your kit! To stock up on all your must have professional items, head on over to X-Tan Sunless website to shop for all of your equipment needs!

Xoxo,

Kelly