Today we’d like to introduce you to Josephine Hogsten.
Hi Josephine, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My love for spray tanning didn’t start with a business—it started with a feeling. Years ago, I was lucky enough to work for an amazing company that didn’t just give me a job—they invested in me. They taught me the craft, the details, and most importantly, the why behind what we do. I saw firsthand how something as simple as a beautiful tan could light someone up from the inside out. It wasn’t just about color; it was about confidence.
After I left that role, I carried everything I learned with me. But what stayed with me the most was that sense of purpose—the joy in helping people feel good about themselves. I missed it. I missed the smiles, the transformations, and the small but powerful moments that came with every appointment.
That’s what pulled me back in.
I started my mobile business a few years ago as a way to help offset expenses while caring for my father. During that time, I didn’t actively promote or focus on growing the business, as caregiving became a much greater responsibility than I initially anticipated.
Sadly, my father passed away on September 14, 2025. As I move forward, my goal is to dedicate more time and energy toward developing my business.
Spray tanning, for me, isn’t just a service—it’s a way to lift people up, to be part of their celebrations, milestones, and everyday wins.
Getting back into this industry feels like coming home. And now, I get to do what I love, on my own terms, while continuing to share the same magic I first fell in love with.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting a business was never just about profits for me—it was about purpose. I knew it would be hard, but I didn’t expect the weight of the journey to be this heavy. Every step of the way has been a struggle, but also a lesson in strength, love, and perseverance.
When I first launched my business, I quickly realized that I wasn’t just opening a company—I was stepping into a world I knew very little about. Social media, branding, marketing… I had no idea where to start. It felt like I was constantly behind, watching others thrive online while I was still figuring out how to create a post or schedule content. Every click, every caption, every attempt felt like a small mountain.
Accountability was another battle. When you work for someone else, the structure is there. But when you’re the boss, no one is coming to check on your progress. No one is making sure you get up, show up, and keep going. That discipline had to come from within—and sometimes, it just wasn’t there. Not because I didn’t care, but because I was stretched so thin.
Behind the scenes of business, the “backend” operations—the invoices, inventory, budgeting, taxes, emails—were overwhelming. I used to watch my old bosses run things so effortlessly, but now I know how much weight they were carrying. The pressure of making it all look easy when it’s anything but.
And then, there’s the biggest part of this journey—being a full-time caregiver to my dad. His health became my top priority, and caring for him was a 24/7 job. Appointments weren’t on a schedule—they came whenever they came. Nights were long, days were unpredictable, and through it all, I was the one holding it together, even when I felt like I was falling apart.
Add to that my role as a mother—and a grandmother. The kids needed me, the grandbabies needed me, and I wanted to be there. How could I not? Family has always been my heart. But being present for everyone meant putting myself and my business on the back burner, time and time again.
There were moments when I asked myself if I was doing the right thing. Moments when guilt ate away at me for focusing on the business, and other times when I felt guilty for not focusing enough. I was caught between dreams and duty—trying to build something for myself while carrying the weight of everyone else’s needs.
My story isn’t wrapped up in a pretty bow, and the success I’m chasing isn’t just about numbers. It’s about resilience. It’s about love. It’s about fighting for something, even when life keeps pulling you in a thousand directions.
We’ve been impressed with Authentic Airbush, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What I love most about my business isn’t just the beautiful glow I give my clients—it’s the connection I get to build with each and every one of them.
As a mobile spray tan artist, I get the privilege of coming into people’s homes, their personal spaces, where they feel most comfortable. And that’s something I don’t take lightly. I know how vulnerable it can feel to invite someone in, which is why I focus so much on making every client feel safe, seen, and cared for.
For me, this business has never been about chasing profit. I’m a small business, and my heart is in every single appointment. I’m here to build long-term relationships, not quick transactions. When you book with me, you’re not just another client—you become part of my growing circle of strong, beautiful, confident people I get to serve.
I use Norvell’s Express Solution, which is perfect for busy lifestyles. You can shower in as little as 1 to 3 hours depending on your desired depth of color—no waiting around all day. To top it off, I apply a hydrating moisturizer that helps lock in your tan and leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth, and glowing.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
It’s hard to choose just one favorite childhood memory — I have so many that still live vividly in my mind. I grew up in a small town, the kind where life moved a little slower and memories were made in the simplest moments.
Some of my best days were spent riding bikes with my friends, racing down quiet streets until the sun dipped behind the trees. We’d sit in someone’s front yard for hours, talking, laughing, and dreaming about the future, even though we didn’t know much about what it held.
Evenings often meant hanging out in the Burger King parking lot, which, to us, felt like the center of the universe. That’s where stories were told, music played from rolled-down windows, and friendships grew stronger.
But my favorite memories always come back to Christmas. My mom had this special way of making the holidays feel magical, no matter what. She made sure my brothers and I felt deeply loved — not just through gifts, but through the warmth of her presence, the smell of her cooking, and the traditions she kept alive year after year.
Looking back, it wasn’t about where we were or what we had. It was about the people we were with and the simple joy of being together. Those memories shaped who I am, and I carry them with me always.
Pricing:
- Individual spray tan starting at $65 depending on mileage
Contact Info:
- Website: https://authenticairbrush.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authentic.airbrushllc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Authentic-Airbrush/61551328837830/
- Email: authenticairbrushllc@gmail.com
- Phone: 727-459-1476
