We recently connected with Mackenzie and have shared our conversation below.

Mackenzie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

I decided to open my own spray tan business as a result of my personal journey during pregnancy and postpartum. When I was pregnant with my second child, I began getting organic spray tans weekly, and they quickly became my go-to source of confidence during a time when I was feeling quite the opposite. The transformation I experienced with each tan made me feel beautiful and empowered, and the spray tan artist felt like a true superhero in my eyes.

Fast forward to my third pregnancy, I had the opportunity to spray myself and realized how much I enjoyed the process—not just for the aesthetic benefits but for the emotional uplift it provided. This experience inspired me to create a space where other women could feel the same way.

I wanted to establish a spray tan business that welcomed women of all backgrounds, whether they were preparing for a special event, navigating the changes of pregnancy, or looking to feel good in their own skin postnatally. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment where women can embrace their bodies exactly as they are, just as I have. I understand the challenges and insecurities that can accompany these phases of life, and I want to ensure that every woman who walks through my door feels valued and confident.

Mackenzie, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My journey into the spray tan industry began during my pregnancies, particularly when I was expecting my second child. At that time, I found solace and confidence in organic spray tans, which became a weekly ritual for me. It was incredible how a simple spray tan could lift my spirits and help me feel beautiful during moments that were often challenging. The spray tan artists I encountered felt like superheroes to me, inspiring me to eventually pursue this path myself.

Discipline has been essential in building my business, especially as a full-time working mom of three children under four. Juggling the demands of motherhood with entrepreneurship has taught me about time management, resilience, and the importance of maintaining focus on my goals, even when life gets hectic.

In my business, I offer organic spray tan services using high-quality products that are both safe and effective. My focus is on creating a comfortable atmosphere where women can feel empowered, whether they’re seeking a glow for a special event, navigating the changes of pregnancy, or embracing their postnatal bodies. I’m committed to addressing the unique needs of each of my clients, helping them feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.

What sets me apart from others in this industry is my personal understanding of the challenges women face throughout various stages of life. I strive to create a safe and inviting space where every client feels valued and respected. My own experiences as a mother have profoundly shaped my approach, allowing me to connect with my clients on a deeper level.

I am most proud of my ability to start this business while managing the demands of motherhood. It has been a challenging yet rewarding journey, and I believe that if I can inspire other women to embrace their beauty, even amidst life’s chaos, then I’ve succeeded. I want potential clients to know that I truly understand where they’re coming from and that my mission is to help them feel fabulous, confident, and comfortable in their own skin.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Starting my spray tan business was not just a career move; it was a testament to my resilience, especially while balancing the beautiful chaos of being a mom of three children under four and maintaining a full-time job.

It all began during my second pregnancy. As my body changed and brought challenges, I discovered organic spray tans that became my refuge. I would leave the salon feeling like a new woman, more confident and vibrant. Those weekly appointments provided me with a glow that uplifted my spirits during a time when I was often exhausted and overwhelmed.

Fast forward to my third pregnancy, and I found myself feeling impatiently inspired. I wanted to harness that same feeling of empowerment and confidence for other women. I envisioned a place where they could come in, feel comfortable in their bodies, and leave feeling radiant, no matter what stage of life they were in. And then, the idea struck me: I could start my own spray tan business.

However, turning that dream into a reality was far from easy. With a full-time job and three little ones at home, my days were quickly filled to the brim. After my youngest was born, I vividly remember nights spent asleep on the couch as a tide of exhaustion washed over me. Yet, every time I felt like giving up, I remembered those moments of joy and empowerment that spray tans had provided me. I knew that if I could create that for others, it would all be worth the struggle.

I dedicated my mornings to researching and learning the ins and outs of the spray tan industry. I spent my evenings perfecting my technique, using my spare time to practice on friends and family, all while keeping a close watch on my toddlers. I would often sneak in business planning during bath time or while nursing. There were times I felt I was stretched too thin—working late, cleaning, caring for my little ones, and researching spray tan products in between. Yet, with every hurdle, I learned to adapt. I leaned on my partner for support and carved out small chunks of time where I could focus solely on my dream.

As the business started to take shape, I felt the weight of doubt creep in, especially when balancing everything as a mother. But the moments I spent crafting my vision and feeling the sheer joy of that sun-kissed glow for my first few clients reignited my passion. I poured my heart into creating an environment where women could feel safe and celebrated, a space that reflected my own journey of self-acceptance and empowerment.

Each success—no matter how small—made the tough days worthwhile. When I saw a mother walk out with a radiant smile, glowing not just from the tan but from newfound confidence, I felt my resilience pay off. I knew this was more than just a business: it was a mission to uplift other women.

Today, as I reflect on that challenging journey, I’m filled with pride. I’ve built a business while being a dedicated mom and maintaining my full-time job. My experiences have made me more resilient than I could have ever imagined, and I now aim to inspire my clients to embrace their beauty and strength, just as I have learned to do. My story is a reminder that resilience, when nurtured with passion and purpose, can truly transform dreams into reality.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

As I ventured into motherhood while trying to start my spray tan business, I found that I had to unlearn several lessons that society and my previous experiences had instilled in me.

The Notion of Perfection:
One of the biggest lessons involved unlearning the idea that motherhood and entrepreneurship must be perfect. I often felt the pressure to present myself as a flawless mother and a successful businesswoman. However, I quickly realized that authenticity is far more valuable than perfection. Embracing the messiness of life—whether it was dealing with tantrums, juggling laundry, or managing a startup—allowed me to show up more genuinely for my children and clients. I learned that it’s okay to have bad days, and in fact, those moments can make the good days even more meaningful.

The Limitation of Time:
Initially, I believed that I needed large blocks of uninterrupted time to work on my business or be fully present as a mom. I had to unlearn this notion and embrace the reality that progress can be made in small increments. I learned to make the most of fleeting moments—working on my business during nap times, using the car rides to listen to educational podcasts, or engaging with clients while the kids played nearby. This shift in perspective helped me maximize productivity without sacrificing quality time with my children.

The Fear of Asking for Help:
I grew up with the belief that asking for help is a sign of weakness. As a new mom and budding entrepreneur, I had to unlearn this idea. I discovered that seeking support from my partner, family, or friends was essential to my success. By asking for help, I not only relieved some of the burdens but also fostered stronger relationships. Whether it was delegating tasks at home or seeking guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs, I realized collaboration and community are invaluable.

The Comparison Trap:
Another important lesson was learning to resist the urge to compare myself to other mothers or business owners. Social media often presents a highlight reel of others’ lives, leading to feelings of inadequacy. I had to unlearn the belief that others had it all together and that I had to measure my success against theirs. Instead, I focused on my unique journey and progress, celebrating my achievements, no matter how small. This shift helped me find joy in my own story and recognize my strengths.

The Myth of Sacrifice:
Lastly, I had to confront the belief that being a devoted mother meant sacrificing my own goals and desires. I learned that you can pursue your passions while being a loving and present parent. In fact, showing my children that pursuing your dreams is possible—no matter the obstacles—has been one of the most valuable lessons I can impart to them. Balancing my business with motherhood ultimately enriches my life and sets a positive example for my kids.

The journey of motherhood and entrepreneurship has taught me invaluable lessons that involve unlearning many societal expectations. By embracing authenticity, seeking support, and focusing on my unique path, I have not only grown as a business owner but as a mother as well. These lessons have shaped my approach to both roles, allowing me to find fulfillment in the beautiful chaos of life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://goldenacres.glossgenius.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/golden.acres.tanning

Image Credits

Mackenzie LoMonaco, iPhone – picture is of her ‘why’. Her three babies!