Spray Tan with Purpose: Support Childhood Cancer Awareness

As spray tan professionals, we’re in a unique position. Every single day, we connect with clients on a personal level—we hear their stories, celebrate their wins, and sometimes learn about their struggles. Among those stories are clients fighting battles that extend far beyond achieving the perfect bronze glow.

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and the gold ribbon has become a powerful symbol of hope for the millions of families affected by pediatric cancer. But here’s the thing: awareness doesn’t have to stay separate from your spray tan business. In fact, integrating meaningful causes into your work can deepen client relationships and create a positive impact in your community.

Why Gold? The History Behind the Childhood Cancer Awareness Ribbon.

You might be wondering why gold was chosen as the color for childhood cancer awareness. The answer is beautifully symbolic—gold represents how precious children are. Just as gold is valuable and cherished, so are the young lives affected by cancer.

The gold ribbon movement gained momentum in the late 1990s when families and advocates pushed for more research funding and awareness surrounding pediatric cancers. Unlike many adult cancers that have seen significant treatment advances, childhood cancers have historically received less funding and attention. The gold ribbon serves as a rallying point to change that narrative.

5 Ways to Incorporate Awareness Into Your Spray Tan Business

1. Wear Your Support Proudly

One of the easiest ways to show solidarity is by wearing an awareness pin during your appointments. The Gold Ribbon Official Awareness Lapel Pin with 10 FREE Stickers is the perfect accessory to attach to your spray tan apron, uniform, or even your branded hat. It’s a subtle conversation starter that shows clients you care about more than just their tan.

At approximately 1″ tall, this pin is noticeable without being overwhelming—meaning it won’t distract from your professional appearance but will absolutely spark meaningful conversations.

2. Create an Awareness-Themed Spray Tan Event

Consider hosting a “Glow Gold” spray tan event during September. Donate a portion of proceeds to childhood cancer research organizations, and encourage clients to participate. You could even offer a small discount to clients who come in wearing gold or bring a gold ribbon accessory.

3. Use Themed Tanning Stickers

Here’s where our niche expertise really shines! Tanning stickers aren’t just for creating fun tan lines—they’re also incredible conversation pieces and marketing tools. During awareness months, consider offering themed stickers that align with the cause you’re supporting. Check out the creative options at TanningStickerz.com for unique designs, including ribbon-shaped stickers that let your clients wear their support literally on their skin.

4. Educate Your Clients

Many people don’t realize that childhood cancer remains the leading cause of death by disease in children under 15 in the United States. When a client asks about your gold ribbon pin, take a moment to share why it matters. You’re not just a spray tan artist—you’re a trusted professional with influence in your community.

5. Partner With Local Organizations

Reach out to local hospitals, Ronald McDonald Houses, or childhood cancer foundations. Offer complimentary spray tans for mothers and caregivers who spend countless hours at their children’s bedsides. A small gesture of self-care can mean the world to a parent going through an unimaginable experience.

The Business Benefits of Cause Marketing

Let’s talk strategy for a moment. Incorporating cause awareness into your spray tan business isn’t just good for your soul—it’s smart business practice. Here’s why:

• Deeper Client Connections: Clients remember how you made them feel. Supporting causes creates emotional bonds that turn one-time clients into lifelong loyal customers.
• Social Media Content: Awareness campaigns give you authentic, meaningful content to share. Posts about causes consistently outperform promotional content in engagement.
• Community Recognition: Local businesses that give back get noticed. You become more than a spray tan professional—you become a community leader.
• Personal Fulfillment: Running a business that makes a difference feels good. That positive energy translates into better client experiences.

How to Display Your Gold Ribbon Pin

The beauty of the Gold Ribbon Awareness Pin is its versatility. Here are some ideas for spray tan professionals:

• On Your Apron: Pin it near your heart for maximum visibility during sessions.
• On Your Spray Tan Tent: Attach it to the entrance flap so clients see it upon arrival.
• On Your Business Hat: If you wear a branded cap, this pin adds a meaningful touch.
• In Your Waiting Area: Display it on a small board with information about the cause.
• At Events: Perfect for trade shows, awareness walks, or community fundraisers.

The included 10 FREE stickers are also perfect for adding to client aftercare bags or handing out during September appointments. It’s a small gesture that extends your support beyond your salon walls.

Beyond September: Year-Round Awareness

While September spotlights childhood cancer awareness, the fight continues every single day. Consider keeping your gold ribbon pin visible year-round, or rotating through different awareness colors as months change.