Simpli Soleil Settles into Albertville Hub

What started off as a little messing around with spray tanning has turned into a big business for two women with St. Michael-Albertville ties. 

Simpli Soleil (So-Leh) has established itself as a unique boutique for area women, providing everything from purses and other accesories to spray tanning, waxing and more.

"We opened up in December of last year really with just the spray tan in mind. And then we started getting the clothes and accessories and it took off from there," said co-owner Brooke Langva, an STMA graduate and area native who is happy to work close to home. "So we sort of flipped the angle from spray tanning salon to a botique."  

Her partner is Bobbi Kasper, who is married to a fellow STMA grad and lives with Mike and their children in nearby Buffalo. 

"We were both stay-at-home moms," Brooke said. 

"We really tried everything first on our families," Bobbi added. 

Eventually, they found a home near Westside Liqours. When that spot became a bit too small, they headed west, and nestled in next to Subway. 

"The traffic has been great. People come and poke their heads in. They want to see what we're all about," Brooke said. 

What they have is the latest in women's wear, from shirts to bracelets, necklaces to shoes. But they also have the full spray tan, which is a much safter alternative to bed tanning. 

"All of the news and information started coming out about melanoma, and people we knew were having moles checked out. It was kind of a scary thing. But people like that tanned look all year, so it was a search for an alternative that led us to this. On the East and West Coast, this is all you see. There really isn't bed tanning out there anymore," Brooke said. 

The duo has teamed up with Holli Rich, a "waxing artist" and skin specialist, to now offer body waxing for both guys and gals. It's caught up in a bit of red tape (the licensing has been delayed by the state shutdown) but will be up and running as soon as possible. 

Simpli Soleil will host grand opening events in their new location. 11008 61st Street NE in Albertville from Aug. 4 to Aug. 7. Almost the entire store will be 30 percent off during Aug. 4 hours, while the store will be 15 percent off on the weekend (excluding denim). The week will also include a "Ladies Night" and waxing–if the license is processed by then. 

For more, contact the store at 763-420-9100.