The grand opening of AK Wellness & Tanning was held Saturday at the newly expanded location on Kenai Spur Highway in Kenai.
Owner Vanessa Way said during the event that they offer a variety of tanning and red light therapy options. The larger space features new equipment to accommodate people in wheelchairs and other disabilities.
Uei said he has been running the business since 2018. The new building has approximately 24 rooms, most of which are filled with equipment and ready for visitors, but some are left vacant for further expansion.
According to Uei, much of the equipment operated at the facility is made in Germany, and there are no local resources for maintenance or repair. There, she learned to do the work herself, repairing circuit boards, fans, lamps, and assembling each machine.
Uei said the appeal comes from her own experience with the product. She was medically discharged from the U.S. Army and her red light therapy was part of her recovery. Shortly after, she was approached by her mother, a real estate agent, about selling the tanning salon she eventually purchased.
“I bought the place and added red light therapy and all the pods and all the health stuff,” she said. “I wanted to be able to offer that to others and help them feel better both mentally and physically.”
She said she enjoys guiding people through the different services available to them and connecting people to meet their needs.
During the grand opening, more people visited the space for tours, meals, and giveaways, and more people used the facility.
Uei said she felt encouraged by the community’s support, both from other local businesses and attendees at the event, as she opened the new space behind her. As she moves into her new chapter, she said she is excited to continue building a presence as part of the local business community.
For more information, visit AK Wellness & Tanning LLC on Facebook.
Contact reporter Jake Dye at jacob.dye@peninsulaclarion.com.
Empty equipment stands by during the grand opening of AK Wellness & Tanning on Saturday, April 6, 2024 in Kenai, Alaska. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)
Vanessa Way checks in guests during the grand opening of AK Wellness & Tanning on Saturday, April 6, 2024 in Kenai, Alaska (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)
Rooms and robes line the hallway at AK Wellness & Tanning on Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Kenai, Alaska. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)
Vanessa Way poses for a photo at AK Wellness & Tanning on Saturday, April 6, 2024 in Kenai, Alaska. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)
