Rebecca Simon shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Rebecca, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
I would choose integrity. Having energy or intelligence doesn’t necessarily mean you’re using it in other people’s best interests, but without integrity and honesty there’s no real connection. To me, integrity means doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Businesses fail every day because of a lack of integrity. People can tell when someone’s energy is off or when integrity is being faked. It shows. You can’t fake character for long, and that’s why integrity matters most to me.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Rebecca Simon, and I’m the owner of Tan Artistry + Aesthetics, a custom spray tanning and skincare business located on The Hill inside Nova Collective for Beauty and Wellness in St. Louis. I focus on providing personalized, custom results while building genuine relationships with my clients.
What makes my brand unique is that we’re located inside a space rooted in wellness and community. When you walk in, you immediately feel at home. Every appointment is tailored to the individual, whether it’s a custom spray tan or an advanced skincare treatment. My goal is always to educate and guide, never to pressure. I prioritize honesty and transparency, so clients feel confident in their choices without ever feeling pushed into a purchase.
I’ve always had a desire to keep learning and growing. I’m currently completing my degree in business and marketing, which allows me to approach my work from both a business perspective and an aesthetic perspective.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My whole family has taught me the most about work. I’ve always been surrounded by people who never stop thinking, growing, and looking for ways to improve not only their own lives but the lives of others. My parents instilled a strong work ethic in me at a young age, and I’ve been working since I was around nine years old.
One of my first jobs was at Soulard Market, where my grandfather worked for decades after immigrating from Lebanon, selling fruits, vegetables, and everything in between. My dad and his siblings worked there as well, and I grew up working alongside my family. It wasn’t a glamorous or “aesthetic” job, but it showed me what real work looks like. My grandfather showed up every single day until right before he passed, and that’s something that has always stayed with me.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of truly listening, especially to people who need help. In business, you can’t just talk at people or focus solely on selling something. Your business is nothing without honest relationships. Taking the time to listen, understand someone’s needs, and genuinely care is what builds something real and lasting.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
While I haven’t faced anything truly devastating, I’ve definitely had moments in my business that didn’t go as planned. The hardest part was taking my vision and actually putting it into action. There were times when things didn’t unfold the way I originally imagined, and that can be discouraging. Those moments taught me that growth often comes from discomfort. Instead of forcing things, I’ve learned to pivot, adapt, and go with the flow. Building something of your own isn’t always smooth, but the struggles are worth it because they show you what you don’t want and help shape what you’re working toward.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies in the beauty industry is that more is always better. More services, more products, more procedures. While the industry is constantly evolving and change is common, there’s a difference between staying educated and constantly pushing the next new thing. When recommendations are driven by sales instead of intention, it starts to feel like a transaction rather than a thoughtful suggestion. I believe sales should come after trust and real relationships are built, which isn’t always what’s taught in this industry.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
Yes, it truly feels like that most days. It’s incredibly rewarding to go to work every day and pour myself into something I created. There’s a different level of excitement when you know the vision, the effort, and the late nights led to something real. It’s hard work, but there’s something meaningful about knowing the responsibility and the reward come from something I chose to build with the help of my family. I think my clients can feel that difference as well. Some days, it still feels surreal.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tanartistrybyrebecca.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tanartistry.aesthetics?igsh=eTg2dDU2YnozaDQ1&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
Sarah Elaine Photography
