Meet Cortni May

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cortni May and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cortni, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
People think spray tanning is just about getting a little color—but it’s way deeper than that. It’s a confidence boost, a pick-me-up, and sometimes even therapy for people. What most outsiders don’t realize is how technical it is behind the scenes. I have to assess skin tone and undertones, choose the right solution, blend it evenly, and work with lighting and environment to make sure the final result looks flawless in real life and on camera. Prep matters, aftercare matters, and no two tans are the same. It’s not just spraying and hoping—it’s precision, consistency, and connection. Spray tanning is a science.

What should our readers know about your business?
Tini Tans is my passion project. I offer custom, hand-sprayed tans designed to give every client a natural, flawless glow. But more than just a tan, I create a space where people feel comfortable, confident, and truly cared for. I believe vulnerability is a vital part of being human—especially for women—and I want my clients to feel safe enough to be themselves. It’s about making you look good and feel even better when you leave.

Starting out, finding clients was the hardest part. I’d leave my full-time job early to squeeze in spray tans, hustling through social media and friends to get people in the door. I was exhausted and it was taking a toll on my family and mental health. Then when my son had surgery, I had to take some time off. During that time, I started getting so many messages for tabs, I couldn’t keep up. That’s when I knew I had to go all in and build this business full-time.

What sets Tini Tans apart isn’t just the perfect glow—it’s the connection. I don’t just spray you and send you on your way. I remember your kids’ names, your birthday, and I’ll probably text you to make sure you’re not still texting that guy with all the red flags. .You’re not just a client, but a friend.

Spray tanning can feel vulnerable—I mean, you’re literally standing in front of me naked!—but I make it a judgment-free zone. I don’t care that you have stretch marks after your 3 beautiful babies. I don’t care about your cellulite, or your small or big boobs. I see beauty in all forms every single day; and my goal is always for my clients to leave feeling better than when they walked in—inside and out.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit, things would look a little different than they used to—nightlife in Houston isn’t really my scene these days. We recently moved to Cypress, so now it’s all about good food, family-friendly fun, and places where my son can run around while we hang out.

We’d definitely hit the Houston Zoo or the Downtown Aquarium—those are always a win with kids and honestly, I love them too. For lunch or dinner, I’d take them to Ambriza in Towne Lake—it’s my new favorite spot. There’s live music, a turf area for kids to play, and it’s right on the water, so the vibe is amazing and super relaxed. Plus, I can actually sit and enjoy, knowing people don’t care if my kid is loud or running around.

Ross would probably pull us over to Passerella—he loves it there—and I’m not mad about it. Great food, nice atmosphere. If we wanted something casual, Sam’s Boat is always solid, especially on a sunny day if it’s crawfish season.

Honestly, I’m all about Bridgeland and Towne Lake lately. It feels like home—laid back, family-centered, and full of hidden gems. But depending on the season, we are big sports people so there’s a good chance we’re down for an Astros or Rockets game too!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First, I have to recognize my fiance, Ross. His steady presence and unwavering support has been everything. He’s the one who made it possible for me to leave my full-time job and take the leap into building this business. The stability he provides for our family has given me the freedom to chase this dream with my whole heart. I wouldn’t be where I am without that kind of foundation.

My sister Natasha is the one who started it all—she flew to the Dominican Republic years ago with a suitcase full of spray tan essentials, and she taught me the ins and outs of the business. She believed in me before I even knew what this could become, and her guidance planted the seed that grew into Tini Tans.

I’m also so thankful for my friend Adalee Morgan, owner of Willie B. Local & Co, in East Bernard, TX, for giving me my first opportunity to spray tan in the States. That chance gave me the confidence and momentum I needed to really get started.

And I can’t forget my parents—for helping with my son Jack, so I can serve my clients and keep growing. It truly takes a village, and I’m so grateful for mine.

Website: https://tinitans.glossgenius.com

Instagram: @tansbytini

Facebook: @tini tans