Open for Business; Paradise Tanning

Paradise Tanning opened a 1,560-square-foot salon on Feb. 25 at 4327 S. National in Aundria Plaza. The salon employs five, is owned by Feller Enterprises and has a five-year lease at $1,625 per month through Eoff and Associates. The company uses Sun Ergoline and ETS tanning beds, and sells lotions and protective eyewear, said Jennifer Tapp, general manager (pictured with assistants Christy Wagner and Tayla Downing). There was no remodeling necessary as the space had been built to accommodate a tanning salon said Drew Martin, financial director. An additional 1,960-square-foot salon opened April 27 at 704 W. Mt. Vernon in Nixa, which employs six. Hours of operation are 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon-7 p.m. on Sunday.

Ted Smith & Associates, a CPA firm, opened Feb. 15 at 305 E. Walnut, Ste. 22, in Vandivort Center. The 1,300-square-foot office employs three and focuses its practice primarily on small business concerns, said owner Ted Smith, who worked as CFO for B&G Automotive Group previously. "We've been able to add some value because we've stepped out into the real world and stepped back in and understand both sides," he said. Smith leases from Jim Shirato and spent about $5,000 on remodeling costs, including painting and carpet. He forecasted about $200,000 in 2004 revenues. Office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Wood Floor Designs by Roben opened a 900-square-foot shop Jan. 19 at 380 E. Highway CC, Ste. B-103, in Nixa. Products include a variety of wood selections, including hardwood and pre-finished wood flooring, finishes and stains, as well as equipment rentals such as sanders and edgers, said manager Roben Wells, who owns the business with her husband, Keith. Client mix is roughly 60 percent contractors and 40 percent homeowners, she said. The firm's lease rate is $560 per month; the lessor is Washington Developers. Remodeling ran about $15,000, she said. Shop hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m.-noon on Saturday.