Early in 2023, Ty Godwin, Owner of several Hollywood Tans salons in Maryland, attended an industry trade show. While he has long been an active supporter of such events, he had an idea for a salon operator seminar … with a twist!
“What salon owners are looking for when they attend such events are open-minded, round-table-type discussions that address and offer solutions to the day-to-day challenges we face,” Godwin states. Scribbling notes on a cocktail napkin at the hotel bar, he outlined an idea for bringing salon owners together for a working seminar to be held on a luxury cruise ship – (much like the popular IST Magazine “Solar Seminar at Sea” cruises we enjoyed back in the day). He “floated” the idea by a few fellow salon owners attending the trade show and they enthusiastically committed their support.
Without hesitation, Godwin booked (and personally guaranteed) 25 cabins on a five-day Carnival cruise to Grand Cayman and Cozumel, departing from Tampa, FL on November 27, 2023. Within just a few days, all 25 cabins were reserved and he quickly had to book 20 more to handle the demand!
A group of 48 people attended the inaugural event, representing 25 different businesses and 75 salon locations. They arrived in Tampa a day before departure and were treated to a fun-filled day of meeting and greeting held at the Devoted Creations headquarters in Oldsmar, FL.
Hosted by DC President Lewis Henry, the day’s agenda included first-class hospitality and a tour of the company’s state-of-the-art manufacturing and packaging facilities. Devoted Creations provided all attendees with swag-bags that rivaled those at a Hollywood movie premiere.
On the day of departure, Brook Taylor, Owner of All Hours Tanning Distributors in Nampa, ID sponsored a mimosa-infused breakfast and also provided a luxury chartered bus to transport the entire group to the port. Salon software provider Tan-Link furnished I.D. badges, etc.
Once at sea, the cruisers would break out into informal discussion groups and then circled back together to share ideas, strategies and real-world experiences. Topics of discussion included:
The group would then meet each night to recap the day’s events over cocktails and dinner.
Plans are in the works for a 2024 seminar cruise! Space is limited; for more info on attending and for sponsorship opportunities, contact Ty Godwin – ty@hollywood-tans.com
Jerry Deveney is the President of SunForce Marketing, Inc. He has been actively involved in the tanning, spa, wellness and fitness industries for more than 30 years. His company provides business analysis and consulting services in the areas of sales, marketing and operations. Jerry has worked in almost every industry sector including salon management, equipment manufacturing and distribution, new product development, regulatory affairs, and sales & marketing.
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