Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Rankin Inlet (June 12/02) - Stella Green is proving wrong those who thought a tanning salon in the Kivalliq Region was a far-fetched proposition.

The tanning salon is part of Green's store, Stella's Niuvirvialaaq, located in the new Rankin Inlet mall.

Although the tanning bed is proving itself to be immensely popular, it's but one part of the unique little shop Green has assembled.

"The store has been a big hit with the teenagers because I've brought a lot of different things in for the girls," says Green. "I give them a bit more variety when they're shopping for clothes, cosmetics or jewelry."

Green has attracted so many people to her tanning bed, she can't accept any more clients until June 18.

When she first opened her doors for business, she was hoping to attract about 20 clients to her tanning salon.

She's already doubled that.

"Most of my clients are trying to get a tan so they can avoid getting sunburned when they go on vacation or sticking out like a sore thumb on a beach somewhere," she says.

"But, for others, the tanning bed is a way to get a shot of vitamin D from the ultraviolet light and perk themselves up a bit."

Green hails from Mutton Bay in Eastern Quebec, just a stone's throw from the shores of Newfoundland.

She's been living in Rankin for the past two years and says she couldn't ask for a better location for her shop.

"I've done quite well since word got out that I'm open and what I have to offer. I'm quite satisfied with the way things have gone so far," she says.

Green hasn't overlooked the personal touch in her shop, either.

She offers complete giftwrapping services to men who are all thumbs and those who are just too busy to spend time adding an eloquent touch.

"You have to keep your clients happy and give them a good reason to come back.

"Happy customers are repeat customers. That's why when someone spends $20 or more in the store, their name is entered into a weekly draw for a $40 gift certificate.

"Little gestures can often go a long way when it comes to your customers."