New tanning parlor opens next to Gardnerville nail salon

Those seeking a quick tan for the summer season have a new place to go.

First-time business owner Erin Chandler has opened Tuscany Tan next to A La Carte Nails in downtown Gardnerville.

"I though it would be fun," said the 40-year-old Gardnerville resident, who worked for Douglas County for more than 20 years before heading out on her own. "And I love it. It is so much fun."

Although a bit unnerved by the economy, Chandler said she's lucky to have a built-in customer base from the nail shop next door.

"We've also been able to pull some new people in by running specials and flyers and getting the word out," she said.

Chandler said the small business allows her to be flexible with her schedule, and spend more time with her kids, including two teenage daughters who are thrilled their mother now has a tanning salon.

"They love it," she said. "It was a little slow after Christmas, but now things are picking up. We got a few warm days of sun. People are getting in vacation mode, spring fever. We just need it to stay warm."

Inside the studio, patrons will find two 12-minute tanning beds.

"One is a high-pressure bed. The bulbs are hotter and you tan faster," Chandler said. "The other is a bronzing bed. It takes a little longer, and it's more for maintenance. You use it when you don't want to get darker, just want to keep the heat and sun."

Tuscany Tan also offers body piercing, as well as a variety of retail products, including vitamin supplements, body jewelry, Salt City candles and Made-by-Mindy blankets and scrubs.

The studio often teams up with A La Carte Nails for promotions and specials.

"Right now, we're doing prom specials," Chandler said.

Tuscany Tan is located at 1456 Highway 395, Suite B. Business hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Call 782-8826 for more information, or visit www.tuscanytan.services.officelive.com.