Embracing the Golden Glow: The Story of Kiss My Tan and Julie McDonald

By: Bethany Myers

Julie McDonald, the visionary behind Kiss My Tan, has transformed the tanning experience into an art form that celebrates both beauty and wellness. Here's a glimpse into the remarkable journey of Kiss My Tan and the passion-driven entrepreneur who started it all.

A Radiant Beginning

In May 2015, Julie McDonald embarked on a mission to provide a safer and more satisfying tanning alternative. She began her venture from the cozy confines of her own home, offering sunless tanning solutions to those who had either battled skin cancer or simply struggled to achieve the perfect tan under the sun's harsh rays. This heartfelt endeavor marked the inception of Kiss My Tan.

Over time, Julie recognized the need to expand her reach, leading her to establish a studio location in Chino Hills. Despite this growth, she continues to serve clients throughout Orange County and surrounding areas, delivering her expertise as a mobile tanning artist.

The "Bronze Boss" Experience

At Kiss My Tan, Julie takes the title of "Bronze Boss" to heart. Her commitment to excellence is evident in the meticulous care she provides to her clients. Using only the finest DHA solutions, Julie crafts flawless tans that mimic the sun-kissed results of a tropical vacation – minus the sunburn and harmful effects of UV exposure.

What truly sets Kiss My Tan apart is its unwavering dedication to health and quality. The products used at Kiss My Tan are free from cancer-causing ingredients and harsh dyes often found in commercial alternatives. Every client is treated like a celebrity, receiving the luxury service they deserve.

More Than a Business, It's a Passion

Julie's approach to her clients goes beyond just providing a service. She brings a unique level of skin knowledge and emotional awareness to her work. Julie doesn't see numbers or dollar signs when she meets her clients; she sees beautiful individuals seeking their own unique form of golden beauty.

Her clientele includes a diverse range of individuals from all walks of life, each with their own story and needs. Julie is trained to work with individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and professions, making her specialty people themselves.

A Rebranding Moment

In September of the previous year, Julie's business underwent a significant rebranding, emerging as "Kiss My Tan." It was formally known as Organic Beach Spray Tan. This edgy and fun name allows clients to interpret it based on their mood, reflecting the dynamism of the tanning experience. The Kiss My Tan brand is gaining popularity, and Julie's aspiration is to introduce as many women and men as possible to the art of natural spray tanning.

Inspiration and Accomplishments

Julie's inspiration for starting her business was deeply personal. As a mother of two daughters, she wanted to empower women and make them feel beautiful. Her journey into entrepreneurship was driven by her desire to be her own boss while setting an example of strength and determination for her children.

One of the most remarkable chapters in Julie's life unfolded in 2019 when her father's health deteriorated due to alcoholism. Doctors predicted he had only two weeks to live, but Julie, armed with a decade of holistic research, decided to take matters into her own hands. She transformed her tanning room into a makeshift hospital room and cared for her father while continuing to serve her clients. Her self-diagnosed ADHD played a vital role in her ability to manage this challenging period, and she considers it a significant accomplishment in her life.

A Message of Community and Kindness

Julie has a powerful message for the community: Be kind, be helpful, and never stop showing up for people. She believes that showing up is what truly grows a community, self-worth, and a lasting legacy. It's the glow each one of us has to shine on others.

Future Endeavors and Excitement

Julie has big plans for Kiss My Tan in the upcoming year. She is introducing new products, innovative techniques, and exciting surprises for her clients. She is also expanding the Kiss My Tan team, seeking hardworking individuals who are eager to take the business to new heights. Look out for Kiss My Tan's Spring/Summer fashion shows – details coming soon! The studio will be hiring models for these events, so if you're interested in strutting the runway with a golden tan, be sure to reach out.

Life Beyond Work

Outside of her bustling business, Julie is a devoted mother of two talented children. Her eldest is a freshman in high school, showcasing her skills in art and piano, while her younger one displays a knack for interior design and competitive dance. Julie describes herself as a "dance mom" due to her involvement in her children's activities.

In her spare time, Julie enjoys reading holistic research, relishing ocean breezes, exploring new restaurants, spending quality time with her family, and going on sushi dates with her partner.

Community Involvement and Charity

Julie's commitment to her community extends to volunteering at retirement homes and offering support to those who have no family. She is in the process of launching "A Day of Beauty," an initiative aimed at helping individuals who have experienced mental, physical, or emotional abuse regain their confidence and inner beauty through external transformations.

Local Gems and Favorites

Julie has a few local favorites she'd like to share. Among her preferred spots are The Shake Shack, Javier's, and Peet's Coffee. She has a soft spot for boutiques and small shops in Newport and adores Odin Parker's handmade wooden toys.

The Flower Stand holds a special place in her heart, where she enjoys surprising her clients with organic bouquets. Julie's love for beauty transcends her work; you might spot her at Sephora, exploring the latest makeup and body brushes.

Julie also trusts Jen Armstrong MD for maintaining her youthful glow and flawless skin. Additionally, she partners with Kat Johann from Parties By the Sea for celebrity events, bringing her expertise to create memorable and successful evenings. She also enjoys learning about clean hair care from her very special client …turned friend and mentor, celebrity hair boss, Christina Smallwood. 

Passion for Her Work

Julie's enthusiasm for her work is palpable. She revels in creating customized tanning solutions for various skin types, witnessing clients leave her studio with smiles of satisfaction. Her true joy lies in helping people achieve a level of confidence and beauty they may have never experienced before.

Kiss My Tan is more than just a tanning studio; it's a sanctuary of beauty and self-assurance crafted by Julie McDonald, the "Bronze Boss" with a heart of gold. Julie's commitment to providing quality service and empowering individuals remains unwavering as her business thrives.

Follow on Instagram: @theofficialkissmytan