Book an appointment

If your preferred time and date aren't currently listed, please contact me directly and I'll do my best to fit you in.

^{_{If you have a date in mind or want to know more, please reach out!}}

Ask away..

Services

Each spray tan is custom-blended to compliment your unique skin tone, using premium solutions rich in hydrating, skin-loving ingredients. These thoughtfully selected formulas are fast-drying, vegan, and gentle on all skin types - free from parabens, alcohol, DEA, and fragrance. Expect a flawless, natural looking radiant glow without streaks, weird smells, or that telltale fake tan look.

• View All Services
• Enquire

Prep + Care

The most important part of your spray tan is your before and aftercare! Please click here to read through the Q&A section if you are unsure about any part of the process or if this is your first spray tan.

• View All Services
• Enquire

Q+A

How do I prep for my spray tan?

24 hours before your spray tan: EXFOLIATE! Scrub off all that dead skin with a gel (not cream) based body wash. Pay special attention to any dry areas such as elbows, knees, hands and feet. Ensure you use exfoliating gloves or a mitt, not a loofah.Make sure to shave at least 12 hours before your spray tan appointment, and schedule any waxing at least 24 hours in advance.Manicures, pedicutes & spa treatments: Tanning should always come last if you plan to have any other beauty or spa treatments done i.e. facials, massages, manicures, pedicures. Schedule these before your spray tan and ensure any residue is removed from the skin if you are not showering between appointments.12 hours before your spray tan: Make this your final shower before your spray tan, if possible. This gives your skin enough time to reset its pH levels, which helps the tan develop more evenly and last longer. Avoid using harsh soaps, exfoliants, or shaving right before your appointment, as this can throw off your skin’s balance and cause patchiness. Keep it simple - rinse, pat dry, and let your skin chill before the tan goes on. Avoid applying any lotions, perfume, makeup or deodorant.

What do I wear to my spray tan appointment?

Baggier the better! Wear dark, loose fitted clothing that wont rub against the skin following your tan. Avoid wearing a bra after your appointment and wear slip on shoes. Please be aware that the bronzers in the tanning solution may transfer to your clothing - these are completely water soluble and will wash out.Wear as much or as little as you like during your spray tan - whatever makes you feel most comfortable. Complimentary disposables are available, but if you want to avoid tan lines, your birthday suit works just fine. My priority is creating a safe, judgment-free space where every client feels totally at ease.

What do I do after my spray tan appointment?

Do I still need to wear sunscreen?

Yes! Spray tan solutions do not contain an SPF, so continue to use sunscreen as normal 12 hours following your spray tan.

How long will my spray tan last?

A spray tan typically lasts 6-10 days, depending on your skin type, lifestyle, preparation and aftercare. Moisturising daily helps it last longer! Skin that hasn't been properly exfoliated will fade much faster.

Will I turn orange?

Nope! Tanning solutions today are customisable and designed to complement your skin tone when used correctly. Following your personalised rinse time will help prevent your tan from over developing.

Will my tan stain my sheets or clothes?

The bronzer can transfer onto light fabrics while your tan develops, but will wash off easily. Wearing dark clothing and using darker sheets for the first night is a good idea.

Can I get a spray tan if I’m pregnant?

Yes! The ingredients are generally safe, but if you're unsure, check with your doctor first.

How soon before an event should I book my spray tan?

Ideally, 1-2 days before your event to let the tan fully develop and settle.

How do I remove my spray tan?

Your spray tan should start to fade gradually from day 6 onwards. When you're ready to remove whats left, grab those exfoliating gloves and buff away!

Still have questions?

Contact me

Competition Spray Tanning Guide

Waxing & Shaving

Waxing or shaving should be done well before your spray tan so your skin is calm and your pores are closed.Male Competitors:
• Waxing: 72 hours before your tan
• Shaving: 48 hours before your tanFemale Competitors:
• Waxing: 24–48 hours before your tan
• Shaving: 12–24 hours before your tan

Exfoliation

Start exfoliating weekly in the lead-up to your competition.Thoroughly exfoliate the day before your first tan appointment, paying extra attention to dry areas like knees, elbows, and heels.Ensure you use exfoliating gloves or a mitt, not a loofah.Avoid oil-based scrubs, as these can prevent the tan from developing evenly.

Your First Tan Appointment (Base Tan)

• Shower 6-12 hours prior and make sure your skin is completely free of product (makeup, deodorant, lotions, moisturisers, perfumes, sprays).• Wash your hair before your appointment if needed, but avoid shampoos with harsh sulfates that can leave residue on your skin.• Apply a clear coat of nail polish to fingernails and toenails to prevent discolouration. (If you plan on wearing them bare)• Wear loose, dark clothing and slip-on shoes afterwards to avoid rubbing or smudging the tan.• On hot days, place a dark towel on your car seat to avoid transfer.

While Your Tan is Developing

Competition Day (Final Coat)

Two options for the morning of your comp day:No rinse: Keep your base tan from the day before and apply additional coats in the morning.Light rinse: Take a quick (60-second) lukewarm shower, pat dry, and apply your final coats.This will depend on your desired depth of tan and the category you are competing in. Check with your coach.Face: The face is tanned slightly lighter than the body for a natural, balanced look in line with judging criteria.Do not exercise, shower, enter a sauna or immerse yourself in a pool until after the competition is over.

After Your Competition

Hey! I'm Kellie

About 16 years ago, I bought my first spray tan machine. Armed with enthusiasm (and very little training), I offered spray tans in my spare time while studying full-time beauty therapy. Did I have a clue what I was doing? Absolutely not. But the girls who left my little makeshift home salon walked out smiling, feeling and looking like a million bucks - and that was all that really mattered to me.Fast forward 16 years, a few career plot twists, a ton of training, a lot of spray tans, and more hues of orange than I care to admit - I’d like to think I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. Part of working as a professional makeup artist for global brands and broadcasting networks, taught me the ins and outs of colour theory (which, as it turns out, is pretty useful for avoiding tangerine disasters!)So why am I back with a spray gun in hand? Because a fresh tan is pure magic. It’s one of the most underrated beauty treatments - instantly transforming how you look and feel. I’ve got the experience, the skills, and the time, so why not use them to give people that confidence boost? Plus, let’s be honest - there’s just something about a good tan that can fix anyone's day.
Everyone deserves a little sunshine, right? 🌞

• Home
• Contact

Terms of Service

_{Glow by Kellie - Terms of Service}

^{Effective Date: March 2025
Owner: Kellie Rosson
Location: Whitby & Mobile Services (Wellington Region)
Contact: [email protected]}1. Introduction
_{Glow by Kellie offers professional spray tanning services both in-studio (Whitby) and mobile across the Wellington region. By booking an appointment, you agree to the following terms and conditions. These policies help keep things fair, professional, and respectful of everyone’s time.}2. Service Coverage & Travel
_{Mobile services are available across the Wellington region through to Kapiti.
I reserve the right to decline bookings based on location, accessibility, or safety. Travel surcharges may apply for appointments outside standard service areas - this will be communicated before confirming your booking.}3. Booking, Payment & Cancellation PolicyBookings:
_{All appointments are subject to availability and are confirmed via written communication (email, text, or DM).}Deposits:
_{A deposit may be required to secure your booking.}Cancellations:
<sub>- Appointments cancelled within 12 hours of the scheduled time will be charged 100% of the service fee.
- No refunds or credits are issued for late cancellations.</sub>No-Shows:
<sub>- If you do not attend your studio appointment, or are unavailable when I arrive for a mobile booking, the full service fee will be charged.
- Future bookings may require prepayment.</sub>Payments:
_{Payment is due at the time of booking or immediately after your appointment unless otherwise agreed. All cancellation or no-show fees must be paid in full before rebooking.}4. Client Responsibilities
<sub>- To ensure a smooth experience and the best tan result, please:
- Provide a clean, private, and well-ventilated indoor space (approx. 2x2 metres) for mobile appointments.
- Ensure access to a power outlet for equipment setup.
- Follow all Prep and Care Guide instructions before your appointment.
- Advise me in advance of any access issues, stairs, or limited parking at your location.
- Disclose any allergies, skin sensitivities, or medical conditions that may affect your service.
- Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the appointment.
I reserve the right to refuse service if:
- The space is unsafe or unhygienic, or
- Skin has not been adequately prepped according to the Prep and Care Guide.
- In these cases, the full service fee will still apply.</sub>5. Health & Safety
<sub>- All products used are cosmetic-grade and applied under strict hygiene standards. Equipment is sanitised between clients.
Service may be refused if there are visible skin conditions, illness, or signs of infection, or if any health or safety risks are identified.
- If you’re unwell, please contact me to reschedule - the same applies if I’m unable to perform your service safely.</sub>6. Privacy & Confidentiality
_{Your privacy is respected in accordance with the New Zealand Privacy Act 2020.
Personal information collected is used only for booking, communication, and service delivery. Client photos will never be used for marketing or social media without your explicit, written consent.}7. Results
_{Spray tan results vary based on skin type, preparation, and aftercare. While I aim for a flawless, natural glow every time, specific outcomes or shades can’t be guaranteed.}8. Limitation of Liability
<sub>Glow by Kellie accepts no responsibility for:
- Reactions caused by undisclosed conditions or failure to follow pre/post-tan instructions.
- Staining of clothing, furniture, or surfaces.
- Damage to surroundings where the provided space is unsuitable for setup.
- Please protect your space and belongings before your appointment.</sub>9. Professional Conduct
_{-Glow by Kellie operates with professionalism and respect at all times. Any inappropriate behaviour, harassment, or unsafe conditions will result in immediate termination of the appointment and possible refusal of future bookings.}10. Agreement
_{By booking a service with Glow by Kellie, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms of Service.}

• Home
• Prep + Care

Mobile Spray Tan vs Salon Spray Tan - Which Is Better?

_{📅 Posted: July 2025}

Deciding between a mobile spray tan at home or visiting a salon often comes down to lifestyle, timing, and personal preference. Both options can deliver beautiful results, but the experience is very different.For some, a spray tan is planned weeks in advance. For others, it becomes essential the night before an event. Either way, choosing the right setting can make the process feel seamless rather than stressful.

_{The Mobile Spray Tan Experience}

A mobile service is designed for ease and comfort. You remain in your own space, without needing to factor in travel, parking, or salon schedules. Everything is set up for you, and the treatment is completed efficiently with minimal disruption to your day.Many clients appreciate the privacy and calm environment. It allows you to relax while still receiving a professional, flawless result.For those balancing busy schedules, family commitments, or last minute plans, this option offers a practical solution without compromising on quality.

_{The Salon Experience}

Salon appointments can suit those who enjoy the routine of visiting a beauty space. Some clients like being out and about, combining appointments, or setting aside dedicated time for self care.However, salon visits often require working within fixed hours, travelling to the location, and allowing extra time for waiting or unexpected delays. Not to mention Wellington's unpredictable weather!For some, this structure works well. For others, it can feel less flexible.

_{Choosing What Works Best for You}

The best option is the one that fits comfortably into your lifestyle.If you value convenience, privacy, and a calm, professional experience, mobile tanning is often the most effortless way to achieve a natural, even glow in the comfort of your own space.If you have an upcoming event and need a last minute solution, I am always happy to help where possible.

• Contact me here
• Next --> What Makes a Quality Spray Tan Solution?

• Return to Blog
• Home

What Actually Makes a Quality Spray Tan Solution?

_{📅 Posted: August, 2025}

Not all spray tans are created equal. If you’ve ever walked out of an appointment looking more like Ross from Friends than a bronzed dream, you’ll know what I mean.As someone who’s tested more formulas than I’d care to admit (trust me - my laundry has seen things), I’ve learned exactly what makes a quality spray tan solution worth your skin.1. The Colour Has to Be Right
No orange. No green. No weird undertones. A good solution should blend beautifully with your natural skin tone, not fight it. I only use solutions I’ve personally vetted and tested across a wide range of skin types - the ones that leave you glowing, not guessing.2. It Should Feel Like Skincare
Your skin deserves more than just colour. I look for formulas packed with hydrating ingredients like Aloe Vera and Vitamin E - nothing that dries you out or leaves you feeling sticky and tight. You should feel glowy, fresh and semi-dry - not like you’re wearing a coat of paint.3. Fast-Developing, Because Life’s Busy
Not everyone has time to tan-and-wait for 8 hours. The solutions I use are designed for modern life - they develop quickly and still deliver long-lasting, even results. Whether you’ve got 2 hours or all evening, I’ll match you with the right option.4. Ethically-Made
Every solution I stock is vegan and cruelty-free. If it’s going on your skin, it needs to be made right - and tested on humans, not animals.5. Custom Glow, No Cookie Cutter
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. I choose and mix shades based on your skin tone and the look you want. Whether you’re going for subtle or statement, your glow should feel like you, not a trend.Bottom Line?
I’ve spent the time narrowing down my spray tan solutions so you don’t have to. You’re in good hands - and your skin is, too.Want a healthy glow without the guesswork? Book in - I’ve got you. ✨

• Next --> What Are Custom Blended Spray Tans?

• Return to Blog
• Home

What Are Custom Blended Spray Tans?

_{📅 Posted: September, 2025}

Not to be dramatic, but your skin tone deserves more than a “medium, I guess?” from a dusty bottle in a bathroom cabinet.Let’s talk custom-blended spray tans - the difference between “Did you just get back from holiday?” and “Oh… did you mean to be that colour?”One Shade Doesn’t Fit All _{^{(Because You’re Not Beige)}}
Here’s the thing: everyone’s skin has undertones, quirks, moods. Some people go golden, others olive, some lean cool or pink, and some of us are just trying to look alive after a Wellington winter.A custom-blended tan takes your skin tone into account. I mix solutions specifically to complement your individual skin tone. It’s not guesswork - it’s experience, colour theory, and a dash of “I got you, girl.”The Benefits of Going Custom:
• No orange tones (ever. I’d lose sleep over it.)
• Your ideal depth - from barely-there glow to full tropical goddess
• Tailored to your event - beach bride? Work function? Mid-week pick-me-up? Sorted.
• It fades better - because it’s matched to you, it fades more evenly, no patchy weirdnessThis Isn’t DIY Bottle Roulette
Sure, you could grab a bottle off the shelf and hope for the best. Or you could let me custom-blend a tan that:
• Looks natural
• Feels luxe
• Doesn’t ruin your sheets (you're welcome)
I’ve spent hours testing, adjusting, and finding the perfect formulas so you don’t have to experiment on your legs before a wedding!How It Works:
I’ll chat with you about your skin, your vibe, and your tan goals. Then I’ll mix up the perfect cocktail of colour - right there, fresh for your appointment.
It’s quick, it’s personal, and it works every time.TL;DR?
This isn’t your high school self-tanner. This is a pro-level glow, made just for you. And trust me, once you go custom, you don’t go back!

• Sunless Tanning: Your New Secret Weapon for Stretch Marks & Cellulite

• Return to Blog
• Home
• Book Now

Sunless Tanning: Your New Secret Weapon for Stretch Marks & Cellulite

_{📅 Posted: October, 2025}

Let’s be real - almost everyone has something they’d rather not show off in a bikini. Stretch marks, cellulite, uneven tone - we all have our thing. But here's the good news: sunless tanning is one of the easiest ways to blur, soften, and smooth the look of those little “texture moments” without needing a filter.✨ Why It Works
Sunless tanner (especially when professionally applied 😉) adds a natural-looking glow that creates an even tone across your skin.
This glow helps to:
• Diffuse shadows caused by cellulite
• Reduce contrast between stretch marks and your natural skin tone
• Visually smooth out areas with textural differencesIt won’t erase anything - this isn’t Photoshop. But it will give your skin a boost of confidence and an overall more even, healthy appearance.💡 Why a Custom Blend Matters
Not all spray tans are one-size-fits-all. I custom blend every tan based on your skin tone and what you're hoping to achieve - whether it's a light glow, a deep bronze, or just something that makes you feel like you, but better.And because I use high-quality, skin-friendly formulas (no orange nightmares here), the result is natural-looking, flattering, and helps take attention away from the stuff you don’t want front and centre.👙 Confidence Is the Goal
You don’t need to hide anything - but if a subtle bronze helps you feel a little more confident heading to the beach, putting on a dress, or just walking past a mirror, I’ve got you covered (literally).Ready to glow up? Book in and let’s give your skin a little boost - stretch marks and all!

• Next --> Competition Spray Tanning

• Return to Blog
• Home
• Book Now

Competition Spray Tanning

_{📅 Posted: November, 2025}

Next month, the Wellington Regional Bikini & Bodybuilding Championships will be packed with lean muscle, fierce poses, and bright lights that show everything. If you’re stepping on that stage, your tan isn’t just a “nice to have” - it’s part of your stage package.Yes, the event provides a base and stage-day tan with your entry. But here’s the thing - not all tans are created equal. If you’ve worked all year to dial in your physique, why risk a patchy or flat finish under the lights?

Why choose a pro tan?

Stage lighting is brutal. It washes out definition, flattens muscle separation, and highlights every inconsistency. A proper competition spray tan is darker, more even, and tailored to your skin tone so your conditioning actually pops.Unlike salon or at-home products, competition-grade solution is designed for the unique demands of bodybuilding shows. Applied with precision so you avoid streaks, blotches, or the dreaded green tinge that comes from bad prep or cheap products.If you decide to go for a pro tan, ensure your spray tanner meets the following:^{🎨 Colour matched to you - dark enough for stage, without green or orange hues.
⏱ Perfectly timed coats so you’re show-ready without the stress.
🧴 Prep like a pro to avoid dry patches, streaks, or uneven tone.
🚿 Easy fade-out tips so your tan exits gracefully after the show.}

Bookings

I am Mobile and can come to you in the Wellington region, saving you the stress of rushing between venues. You’ll get a tan that’s competition-legal, camera-ready, and worthy of the physique you’ve built.Group Bookings are recommended due to limited availability.

• Competition Tan Mobile Bookings
• Or --> Visit my Whitby Studio
• Competition Spray Tan Guide

• Next --> The Bridal Spray Tan Guide

• Return to Blog
• Home
• Book Now

The Bridal Spray Tan Guide: Natural, Subtle, and Photo-Ready

_{📅 Posted: January, 2026}

When it comes to bridal spray tans, the goal is simple: you should look like yourself on your best day. Not too much darker. Not dramatically different. Just smoother, warmer, and more even.A radiant glow that doesn't scream 'fake tan!'

^{Here's how to get it right}

First: Check your date is available (two days prior to your wedding)The Golden Rule: Less Is MoreIt really comes down to personal preference, but if you don’t normally use self tanner, turning up much darker than usual on your wedding day will stand out. The goal is a soft, sun kissed warmth that gives a lovely contrast against your white dress while still looking and feeling like yourself.

^{Book a trial tan 4-6 weeks out.}

A trial tan lets you see exactly how the colour develops on your skin, not someone else’s. Every skin type absorbs tan differently, and what looks subtle on one person can look much deeper on another.A trial also helps you:<sub>- Check the shade in natural light,
- See how it photographs on camera,
- Make sure it works with your dress colour,
- Learn how your skin fades and how long it lasts,
- Note down any adjustments for the Wedding tan.</sub>Most importantly, it removes guesswork. Your wedding week isn't usually the time to experiment.. While I'm pretty good at winging it, my goal is to make the experience feel calm, predictable, and stress free.

^{Prep is 80% of the result.}

Exfoliate ProperlyI often see brides coming in for their spray tan a couple of days before the wedding, already juggling a million things, and still carrying patches from the trial tan we did weeks earlier. The best results always come down to good prep. Try to make time for a bath at least a day before your appointment. Soaking helps soften dead skin so it’s much easier to buff away with an exfoliating mitt. It’s also the perfect time to sort out any hair removal so you don't have to rush through it the next day.Rushing this step is the number one reason spray tans don’t turn out the way brides expect.Arrive With Nothing On Your Skin🚫 No Moisturiser, Perfume, Deodorant or Makeup✔️ Wear loose, dark clothing and slip on shoes.

^{What do I do after my spray tan?}

Absolutely nothing!
_{*..but I also realise that's not practical, especially two days out from a wedding!}As long as you follow the basics; stay dry, rinse on time, no soap, don’t scrub. We'll go over all of this at your trial so you know exactly how to care for your tan.

^{Do I tan my face?}

Again, it comes down to personal preference. Some makeup artists recommend skipping the face when you spray tan, while others prefer you include it. The best approach is to check with your artist ahead of time, ideally before your makeup trial.Keep in mind that certain skincare products can cause facial tan to fade faster, which can sometimes lead to uneven colour.

^{Pro tip:}

If your calendar is starting to look a little busier than usual, keep things simple by booking your appointments in this order leading up to the big day:6-8 days - Hair removal (waxing or laser)
3-4 days - Mani and pedi
3-4 days - Hair Colour / Brow / Lash appointments
2-3 days - Exfoliate the body - Remove old tan completely
2 days - Get your spray tan ✨

• Group Bookings
• Mobile Bridal Tan Bookings
• Or --> Visit my Whitby Studio

• Next --> Mobile Spray Tan vs Salon Spray Tan - Which Is Better?

• Return to Blog
• Home
• Book Now