We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie Mackamul and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephanie, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
When I was younger my mom worked a corporate job, while my dad was self-employed and the difference in their schedules played a major role in me starting my own business. Having flexibility over my schedule so I could work but also be present during the day while raising kids was always my dream.

As I got older, working in the wedding industry was my goal (originally thinking I’d do wedding photography). In 2009 while attending college for photography I started a part time job at a salon where I first discovered airbrush tanning. I fell in love with the relationships I formed with clients while watching their confidence transform, helping people feel their best is a rewarding experience I will never take for granted. Once I decided to branch out on my own I focused on specializing in bridal tans making it possible to achieve both dreams of owning my own business while also working in the wedding industry.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Tans By Stephanie offers on-location sunless tans for weddings and special occasions in Ventura & LA County. With 3 master certifications and 11 years experience I specialize in bridal tans but tan clients for all occasions.

My main goal is for everyone I work with to feel comfortable, of course getting the perfect shade of tan is key, but its not easy to strip down in front of a stranger so its important to me to make that a top priority. Building relationships with clients is so special to me, and helping people feel beautiful and confident is so rewarding. Many clients come to me nervous and/or shy and leave telling me they have never felt more comfortable with someone.

There are some big changes coming to Tans by Stephanie in the near future so stay tuned for exciting announcements…

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Three of my top favorite stops are Finney’s Crafthouse in Westlake Village – the food and drinks are amazing and the patio seating is perfect for a Friday night with friends or a date night! If you are a sushi lover, Sugarfish in downtown LA or Calabasas is a must. Lastly, Paradise Cove in Malibu-Renting a beach bed and getting some food & drinks to-go from the cafe!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband. When I randomly asked his thoughts on if we could spend the money (that we didn’t have at the time) to buy everything I needed to start this business and if he thought I would be successful enough to make it worth it he without hesitation said YES and has never stopped supporting this dream since.

My family and my bestfriend who all help to watch my daughter, it takes a village to raise kids and run a business while your husband is working full-time and attending school and they help make it possible!

My dad, who passed away in 2017, is my inspiration.

Everyone who supports my business, tells their friends, or simply shares my social media posts, you do not go unnoticed!

Website: www.tansbystephanie.com

Instagram: @tansbystephanie

Facebook: @tansbystephanie

Image Credits
Jenny Quicksall Photography Tiffany Gentry Photography Jorge Macias Photography Rey Trajano The Photographer Lisa Boyle Photography Moosho Photography

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