Former Fair City actress turned business women, Rachel Kavanagh has been bucking the recession with her line of award winning tanning products Rockstar tan. We caught up with the Rockstar Tan creator to talk building a brand in the beauty business…

Rachel what’s your current role and what does it entail?
Managing Director – In charge of the daily running of the Rockstar Tan offices, product development and marketing, logistics and sales.

How did your business begin?
Rockstar Tan began in 2008 as a salon professional tanning solution. Initially I opened my own salon to showcase the new product but later closed it and began distributing the professional solution to salons nationwide. It is now available in over 150 salons. In September 2009, Rockstar Tan also launched 5 retail products which are on sale in department stores and pharmacies throughout the country and in May 2011 our newest addition to the range, our instant mineral tan, FAME will be on the shelves.

What did you want to be growing up?
An Actress – Luckily I’ve had the opportunity to pursue that and I definitely have intentions of doing so again in the future if the chance arises.

What’s a typical day like for you?
Manic! Usually in the morning I make a list of what needs to be done in order of importance and urgency and make my way through it during the day. I always check my emails first thing as I have a lot of correspondence with the US. I also make sure to put aside some time for Facebook and Twitter as social networking is so important in my line of business.

How do you describe your own personal style?
Timeless and Comfortable

Today I’m wearing…?
J Brand Agnus Crop Jeans, Flat Pumps, White T-Shirt and a Zara Blazer

Who’s your style icon?
My Mum – She effortlessly stylish and I love raiding her wardrobe!

Favourite trend this season?
I’m loving The Wedge. I treated myself to a fabulous pair of Christian Louboutin’s that I’m hoping will get me through the whole summer.

Favourite beauty product?
Rockstar Tan, especially coming into the summer!

Can’t live without…?
J Brand Jeans – I’m addicted

Style or Trends?
Style

Favourite hangout?
For dinner I love Dillinger’s in Ranelagh, the food is really good and there’s a great atmosphere. In town I like The Exchequer and No Name bar, and I love having a glass of bubbly in The Shelbourne if I’m treating myself!

Friday night treat?
A pizza and a glass of wine always go down well!

My perfect weekend is…?
Relaxing at home and having friends over for drinks and dinner.

Last time you laughed out loud & why?
Last week watching old re-runs of Friends, it’s as funny today as it was back then!

What’s on your iPod?
Beyonce & Rihanna

What advice would you give anyone trying to break into the business?
You need to have perseverance and determination – it’s hard work but it’ll pay off in the end.

If you could write your ideal job description, what would it be?
Doing what I do now – I love it and I feel so lucky to have my own business which has been so successful in such an uncertain economic climate.

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