By, Gail Mills, Operator and Manager, Bermuda Tan

As an operator of a tanning salon for the last 30 years, it would be fair to say that this industry is not without its incredible challenges, “the good, the bad, and the ugly,” so to speak. As passionate as we are about our industry, believing in our product, wanting to shout it out from the rooftops, “SUN IS GOOD, SUN IS LIFE, SUN IS ESSENTIAL TO OUR WELL BEING,” we find ourselves silenced to some degree by what we can or can not say about our passion……..SUNSHINE.

This is why tanning salons need a united front, a united message, a united industry.

As a long standing member of the International Smart tan Network, and a member of the JCTA since its inception, I truly believe that the longevity and success of our business has been in part due to the support, education and services we receive by being members of these great associations.

The JCTA has become a crucial part of our industry. The hard work and dedication of the people in this organization who work diligently and with great passion to ensure that the voice and message of our industry does not go unheard must be commended.

As an operator who works hands-on in the salon, time rarely is on my side, for keeping up to date with all the information and going ons of our industry. The JCTA has a great website that is always up to date, with education, articles and the latest information pertaining to our industry. They have a social media presence that I, as one salon, could never afford to do on my own. The key is unity, a unified balanced message. This can only be successful with the support of the masses; we as salon owners are the masses.

I love the Tan Responsibly site and often use it in my own social media presence, promoting it to my own followers.

Steve Gilroy has been there for me over the years, with some great advice and guidance in regards to some of the more delicate issues I’ve encountered over the years. Whether it be suggestions on media handling, answering delicate questions, discussions about business issues, industry issues or just a friendly hello, he always makes himself available, and that has always meant so much to me as a salon operator.

Having an organization supporting our industry, creating a united message, lobbying on our behalf and providing us with an abundance of knowledge and information is a gift and worth every penny we might have to pay in membership dues. It is an expense that is “priceless.”

We as salon owners and operators have a responsibility to ensure that the JCTA can continue to be able to speak on our behalf, keep our industry unified and protect what we all believe to be the best and most passionate industry out there. 🙂

If you are not already a member, please reach out, and if you are, please support to the best of your means.

Thank you JCTA.