Cooler in the Shade: Expert Tinting Paves the Way for Success

Alysha Yancey is a go-getter. About a year ago, she was working her nine-to-five job while hearing from her husband, a mobile detailer, about how he was meeting new clients every day. Her entrepreneurial instincts kicked in, and Alysha began thinking about opening a related business.

In Fayetteville, North Carolina, the sun is a factor for drivers, creating both glare and excessive heat. Alysha decided window tinting was a good business opportunity, and in 2023, she launched Ace of Shades from her garage. Since then, she has transitioned to working full time on her business and has opened her own shop.

We talked with Alysha about how she got started, the role social media plays in helping her differentiate her business, and what tools she relies on to maximize efficiency.

What steps did you take on your way to starting Ace of Shades?

Alysha Yancey: I began by teaching myself about tinting through watching videos online. I worked on my own, tinting vehicles for several months, then I took a course where an instructor watched me work. I named my company after my son, Ace.

I started Ace of Shades in my garage, and I created social media videos about my work. When one of my videos went viral, my business got a lot of attention in town. Then a vehicle wrap shop owner asked me to come into his shop and be the tint specialist. After being there for 30 days, I went to another location trying to find my clients a comforting home to tint their vehicles. My business grew over the next few months until I was able to open my own shop in May 2024 - a month before my one-year anniversary of being in business.

How is your shop set up?

I’m in a downtown location with 1,900 square feet. In addition to a reception/waiting area, my shop has a garage door with a bay that can fit four vehicles at a time. Currently, my business is a one-woman show, but I look forward to hiring employees soon.

What types of tinting do you specialize in?

Vehicle, home, heavy-duty equipment, marine, commercial – anything clear, I can make it dark. We offer different shades of tint, from 5%-80%. I also offer frosted and colored film.

My client list has grown to include local retailers, doctor’s offices, landscaping company equipment. I’ve also travelled to different states to install a few jobs.

How did you choose your production equipment?

I researched the two top vinyl cutter manufacturers – Roland DG and a competitor. Roland DG’s equipment has a reputation for excellent quality and durability, and the company offers great support. I wanted equipment I could rely on for the next 15-20 years. I also knew that I would eventually want to add decals and PPF (paint protection film) to my product offerings. After taking all these factors into consideration, I decided Roland DG was the right company to go with.

I chose the CAMM-1 GR2-640 64-inch vinyl cutter because I knew I wanted to do residential tinting, which requires cutting larger pieces of window tint. The performance on the GR2 is amazing – it’s as smooth as butter. Once you learn the system, it goes like clockwork.

What are some of the trends you are seeing in tinting? What shades/applications are most popular these days?

One thing I’ve noticed is that everyone wants windshield tint. But in North Carolina, tinting front windshields is illegal. With the heat, more people are requesting ceramic heat rejection film, and where they used to want 20%, now everyone seems to be asking for the darker 15% tint, nonstop.

I am also getting more requests for commercial applications of colored film. These films are decorative and aesthetically appealing, adding style and some privacy as well.

Why do you think your clients choose Ace of Shades for their tinting needs?

I bring something different to this industry. A lot of people don’t know what goes into tinting, so I try to be as transparent as possible about the process. I have a website, which many tint shops don’t have, and I list my prices online, so people know what they are going to pay in advance.

I also provide a consultation for clients to discuss the best tint options for them. When the job is approved, I offer to let clients watch the installation if they’d like, and I also record the process for social media. This way clients can see how well I take care of their vehicles, and future clients can learn more about what comprises a quality tinting job. I try to provide my clients with a great experience.

What’s your favorite thing about running your own business?

I love the relationships I build with my clients. My business has grown by word of mouth, and I’m proud of the reputation my company has for trustworthiness and value. Plus, I get to travel all over the city. I love meeting other business owners and learning about how they started and grew their businesses.

What lies ahead for Ace of Shades?

I plan to expand more into flat glass with residential and commercial glass tinting. I would also like to begin offering decals and paint protection film (PPF). I hope to get the chance to tint a plane. I also want to hire employees so I can expand my business capabilities and handle increasing demand. I want to get more involved in the community as well. I’ve sponsored a local sports team, and I would like to continue finding ways to give back.