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

Hi Desiree, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I really chose to become a business owner becuse I wanted to have more time with my son. I didn’t want to miss out on anything he had going on so I knew I had to be able to make my own hours.

I never thought my interest in spray tan would help achieve becoming my own boss! Now I am able to make my own hours have have free time to be there for my son.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I started this business as a single mom who was in university. I knew I needed to create income but it had to be around my school hours. It was impossible to find work that would accommodate my life as student/mom.

I went for my first spray tan which I found helped with some skin insecurities I was experiencing. Spray tan really gave me the confidence boost I was looking for.

I thought to myself I want to do this for others! I want to make other people feel confident so I set out to get trained.

Once I was trained I didn’t have a space to work on so I took clients from home. Literally spray tanning them from my stand up shower (if there’s a will there’s a way!)

And now 3 years later I have my own studio, clothing line and academy!

The main challenges I faced were self doubt. I noticed I didn’t feel supported or taken serious from some close to me but I refused to look for validation in others and stayed true to the vision of myself I saw! I knew what I wanted for my future self.

Stick to the vision you have for yourself and you will succeed!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In Toronto, which is the closest major city to us there’s so much to do or see. The night life is great with so many restaurants to try!

This city is known for its greatness and talent!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
This is dedicated to all my day 1s! Those who believed in my dream and who showed up from the beginning.

Instagram: @honeykissedstudio

Image Credits
Logo designed by: Sarah O’Grady

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