The column represents the thoughts and opinions of Gage Matthieu. Opinion columns are NOT the opinion of the Madisonville Meteor.

Gage Matthieu is a marketing professional who possesses a passion for the art of writing.

BRYAN — Madisonville native Haley Wells, owner of Bronzed by Haley, is on a mission to dispel the myth that spray tans turn people orange.

In a recent interview, she passionately emphasized, “I do not turn people orange,” while discussing her successful foray into the world of sunless tanning.

Nestled within a suite in Bryan, Texas, Bronzed by Haley’s inconspicuous location defies the stereotypical image associated with tanning salons. Gone are the conventional preconceptions, replaced by a chic interior featuring a leopard-print rug, elegant black chairs, and a reception area tastefully adorned in Halloween decorations, even a month ahead of the holiday season.

Admittedly, my own experience with tanning was limited, as my naturally sun-kissed skin rarely ventured beyond the comforts of home. Upon my arrival, a friendly greeting confirmed my identity as we engaged in conversation about our shared roots in Madisonville.

With curiosity piqued, I delved into an hour-long conversation, leaving no stone unturned.

Haley Wells, a seasoned expert in the “sunless industry,” provided an illuminating education on the subject. Her knowledge and passion for the craft were evident, leaving me thoroughly impressed by her expertise. Adorning the black-painted walls behind the reception desk, a shelf displayed an array of tanning and skincare products, including a black bottle enveloped in Bronzed by Haley’s signature leopard print branding.

It was revealed to be a self-tanner and moisturizer blend, formulated with the assistance of a skilled chemist to provide both a tan and hydration, combating the typical skin dehydration associated with tanning.

As she guided me through the salon, Haley’s enthusiasm resonated in her voice. The hallway featured canvas-printed photographs of models showcasing their bronzed skin against scenic beach backdrops, underscoring her proficiency.

Explaining her journey into the sunless tanning business, Haley shared, “I had my own tanning bed in our house, and I wanted to open a tanning salon in La Vernia. But then, my mom was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2017, and I said, ‘there’s no way I can do that to people — even though I loved it so much.’

It pushed me into the sunless industry, and it has a bad stigma, because people think it’s going to turn them orange. I do not turn people orange, and I’ve been doing this for five and a half years.”

In a world where time seems to blur, five and a half years might not appear extensive.

However, in the realm of business, particularly in a niche market like tanning, achieving remarkable success to warrant the opening of a second location 168 miles away from the original is a noteworthy achievement. This accomplishment is even more commendable when considering the modest beginnings that hark back to Haley’s roots in Madisonville.

When asked about her business plans for the next five years, Haley’s response was swift and resolute: “I want to open a third location in Magnolia.” This demonstrates her strategic acumen, underscoring her ambition to establish Bronzed by Haley as a household name in the greater Houston area.

From my time spent learning about tanning salons with Haley, it’s abundantly clear that we have not seen the last of her, and I eagerly anticipate witnessing the growth of her burgeoning empire of bronze.