Today we’d like to introduce you to Alison Kedzie.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Alison . So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have always been obsessed with all things beauty, especially sunless tanning. I survived Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, which made me swear off the tanning beds FOREVER. I am passionate about practicing safe sun care, and supporting the Melanoma Research foundation.
I met Jaclyn Gamboa, who started, glo airbrush tan, and began working with her as an airbrush tanning artist, in 2012. I fell in love with the business and quit my full time real estate job to follow my passion in the beauty biz. It was a HUGE leap but totally worth it.
We have expanded to a bigger location in Old Town, along with the Western Suburbs, and offer mobile tanning throughout the city and burbs. I now employee 5 spray tan artists, sell quality skin care products, and am working on a FUN apparel line.
I pride myself in being a female entrepreneur, who finds tremendous JOY in supporting other girl bosses making a mark in the Chicago community.
Has it been a smooth road?
After finishing grad school, I worked in higher education for 5 years. It was a typical 9-5 job that did not motivate me. I realized that I was meant to work in a setting that was more flexible and allowed me some freedom. After taking a few different paths, I ultimately ended up at glo airbrush tan, and could not be happier. The beauty industry is so much fun and always changing. There is never a dull moment!!
I once had a boss tell me, “I would ONLY get so far with my personality.” I believe the COMPLETE opposite is true. To get ahead in any industry you have to put yourself out there, through networking and connecting! Do not listen to the haters, ladies… follow your vision and put yourself out there!
We’d love to hear more about glo airbrush tan.
I currently run the Chicago branch of glo airbrush tan! We specialize in custom airbrush tanning, using organic product that gives you an amazing long-lasting glo. I manage and train our tanning artists, who are so freakin’ talented.
We are known for providing a quality experience and connecting with all of our clients, Our goal is to make everyone feel gorgeous, whether they are a bride, going on a bumble date, or a mom attending their child’s graduation. We customize each person’s color, based on skin tone and preference.
I am so proud of all that we have created and our constant interaction with the community. We don’t want to JUST be a place people come to tan, but a brand that people see as FUN and empowering. My fellow glo girl, Carson Smith, has partnered with me to AMP up our social media and brand recognition. Currently, that is something we are extremely focused on!
We’re interested to hear your thoughts on female leadership – in particular, what do you feel are the biggest barriers or obstacles?
I think the biggest barrier is fear. As a female, I am always scared I am going to be judged or told I am wrong. This is something I have worked on! You are not going to progress unless you take chances. You are going to be told no, do not listen and go for it. GIRLS RUN THE WORLD!
Women need to support other women rather than judge and be jealous of them. I love that I have a network of strong women who support me. I know I am never alone and always have someone to go to for advice!
Pricing:
- Custom Airbrush Tan-$50.00
- Deluxe Airbrush Tan-$60.00
- Mobile Tan-$75-100.00
Contact Info:
- Address: 501 West North Ave
Chicago, IL 60610
*inside of All About Dance - Website: http://gloairbrushtan.com/
- Phone: 312-725-6156
- Email: alison@gloairbrushtan
- Instagram: glo_airbrush_tan
- Facebook: Glo Airbrush Tan
Image Credit:
Chelsea Ross @chelzero on Instagram
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
