Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiffany Terranova.
Hi Tiffany, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started RAW Bronzing Studio out of my loft in Inman Park back in 2009. I was on a mission to make sure that all skin types could get a great spray tan – without looking orange or unnatural – with only the cleanest ingredients. I also wanted to redefine the image and process so it was quick, efficient and affordable. At the time, spray tans were something that took over an hour at an expensive high-end spa. Or it was something that existing spas or salons would add to their list of services as an afterthought. Meaning you’d probably be spray tanned in a closet by someone who was inexperienced and not prepared to educate you on proper pre/post care instructions. Not my idea of a great spray tan.
I was diagnosed with Stage II Melanoma in my late twenties so I was also very concerned with preventing sun damage, skin cancer awareness (and avoiding tanning beds).
So RAW was born!
As we grew busier, we opened our first brick and mortar in Inman Park in 2011 then moved to a larger location in Midtown in 2013 that was twice to size so we could maximize our bookings. By 2014 we opened our second location outside of Atlanta. We continued to grow exponentially every year and the brand expanded into retail products as well.
By 2018 we were ready to expand again. We decided to go back to the Inman Park area where it all started and we opened a location on Edgewood Ave early 2019 and we also opened a new N. Buckhead/Sandy Springs location by July 2019.
That was a tremendously challenging time and we experienced the typical growing pains while trying to open two new locations at the same time and meanwhile trying to keep our other locations thriving. 2020 was projected to be our best year ever with a 5th location set to open first quarter.
Then everything came to a screeching halt, like the rest of the world, in March of 2020. We ended up closing a couple locations and our corporate office as well. Considering our business is based mostly on people traveling, weddings, special events, etc, we were severely impacted. We tried to do the best we could in uncertain times. At that point, you do whatever you have to do to weather the storm. We weren’t sure how long we would be impacted so we had to make some difficult decisions. We also used the opportunity to streamline operations, consolidate stores and strategize the future.
Overall, I’m so grateful we were able to keep our head above water during this time. I’m optimistic and hopeful for the future and we have some exciting things planned for 2022!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I have been so fortunate throughout the years that I still love what I do and so grateful for the opportunity to be a small business owner. It’s allowed me to travel, meet amazing people, do something I’m passionate about and I have fun doing it. That being said, it hasn’t always been a smooth road.
Our expansion period 2018-2019 was extremely challenging. It felt like everything that could go wrong, went wrong. From unexpected build-out delays to red-tape nightmares and everything in between, it was all overwhelming and exhausting.
Then to have two brand new stores that weren’t even a year old before Covid hit, was brutal. The timing couldn’t have been worse. It felt completely horrifying to watch everything you’ve worked and saved towards for years, crumble in the span of a few months.
The main struggle we face now is staffing. Thankfully, we’re busy enough that we need to hire more people so that’s a good problem! But it’s been challenging to find the right people the last year or so but I’m optimistic things will turn around soon.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We were one of the first organic spray tanning studios in Atlanta. It’s all we do so we’re experts at our craft. But more importantly, we care about our clients and want every person to have the best experience possible. We make sure every person feels welcome and feels comfortable. It’s not always easy getting undressed in front of a stranger! But we’re a judgement free zone and want clients to come as they are.
We also have a full resort boutique in both studios. We carry everything you need before traveling – swimsuit coverups, resort wear, sunglasses, sun hats, organic sunscreen as well as everything you need to care for your tan – body wash, body lotion, and our own self-tanner for face (the RAW Tan Mist).
We encourage people of all skin tones to try it out! We can customize the color for the lightest to darkest of skin types and happy to walk clients through any questions that may have.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Honestly, it’s hard to name just a few. I’m into all things health, wellness and spirituality and I’m constantly listening to podcasts and reading new books all the time.
During Covid, when life was slowed down, I decided to take the time to explore those interests deeper. I was able to get a certificate in Herbalism studies and I also got certified through Institute for Integrative Nutrition as a Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. It’s helped me in so many areas of my own life already! I’ve been able to use some of that knowledge and new skills to help friends and family and I’ll be incorporating some of these health + wellness philosophies into RAW in the future.
Pricing:
- Bronzing Session (8 hr dry time) – $45
- Bronzing Session + Prep (8 hr dry time) – $55
- Rapid (4-6 dry time) – $45
- Rapid = Prep (4-6 dry time) – $55
Contact Info:
- Email: info@rawbronzingstudio.com
- Website: www.rawbronzingstudio.com
- Instagram: @rawbronzingstudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RAWbronzingstudio
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/RAWbronzing
Image Credits
Amanda Coker
