SPA TREATMENTS AND PRODUCT EXPERIENCES ~ PART VI ~

Spa at Geneva Ridge Resort (Lake Geneva, IL)

What used to be known as the Interlaken Resort & Country Day Spa is now the Geneva Ridge Resort & Spa. The resort portion received extensive renovations, while the spa is still “in waiting” for a major makeover; the protracted economic downturn will more than likely stall the spa’s much-needed and deserved makeover. In the heart of the Lake Geneva area, it remains a very popular destination for Midwesterners and especially Chicago-area folks in search of a short respite and recharge.

Treatment Experiences: Hot Stone Massage and Anti-Aging Facial.

The Hot Stone Massage began with my therapist (also the new spa director) conducting an in-depth discussion with me on my medical history, including specific back-related issues and injuries; once the intensity and modality of the massage was established, the treatment began. Although rigorous, I was definitely relaxed and noticed quite a bit of relief. The technique was wonderful and just the right thing after a long drive in rush-hour traffic.

The Anti-Aging Facial was very gentle, thorough and restorative; my esthetician began the treatment with a refreshing foot treatment that included a soak, exfoliating scrub and application of moisturizing lotion. Throughout this multi-phase treatment, Pevonia Botanica (www.pevonia.com) products were used. The steps of the facial were matched up with the full-range of products from the Dry Skin array and included the Rejuvenating Dry Skin Cleanser, Rejuvenating Dry Skin Mask, Rejuvenating Dry Skin Toner and Rejuvenating Dry Skin Cream. My skin was noticeably rehydrated and its texture smoother to the touch.

After this restorative facial, I received an application of Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup (www.janeiredale.com) Amazing Base Loose Mineral Powder and a gentle sweep of Shimmer Powder. The pureness of these mineral formulations eliminated any concern over irritation or sensitivity; both products enhanced my natural appearance. The combination of the massage and restorative facial definitely delivered favorable results. For more information, visit www.genevaridge.com.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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SPA TREATMENTS AND PRODUCT EXPERIENCES ~ PART V ~

Avani Spa at Abbey Resort (Fontana, WI)

The Abbey Resort is a favorite destination for Midwesterners; it’s due North of Chicago; although it rests on the shores of glacial Lake Geneva, Fontana, where the property is located, is a neighboring city of Lake Geneva; this area has always been the home for wealthy Chicago-area industrialists and continues to be referred to as the Hamptons of the Midwest. Avani Spa is the new and improved version of what had been known as Fontana Spa; when Fontana opened in 1989, it was the area’s largest (35,000sf) and it’s first European-style spa, offering traditional European-style treatment therapies. The resort and spa are a preferred escape and rejuvenate destination for many Midwesterners, especially Chicago-area folks.

Treatment Experiences: Aromatherapy Retreat Wrap, Café Trio and Avani Relaxation Massage

Products used: Aromatherapy Treatment Wrap uses Trilium Organic Oils (www.triliumorganics.com). The treatment began with a gentle dry brushing and then an application of wonderfully aromatic organic grapefruit infused essential oil was applied; I was then wrapped in herb infused linens and allowed to rest and sweat away those terrible toxins; it had been some years since I had had an herbal wrap and I had forgotten how wonderfully relaxing and restorative an herbal wrap could be; in the final stages of the wrap, I had a delightful scalp and neck massage, although I would’ve preferred a facial massage, which is what the menu lists (my therapist informed me that I’d get this as part of my massage).

The Café Trio uses Body Coffee (www.bodycoffee.com) products. This multi-phase treatment began with a body exfoliation using the Body Polish, which contains ground Arabica coffee beans, Dead Sea salt and essential oils, and Body Coffee’s trademarked Coffee Blossom Essence delicately fills the treatment area. I’m led to the in-room whirlpool bath, which is filled with the Cleansing Body Wash; as I soaked away the Body Polish, I noticed the water was silky to the touch, as was my skin. I then returned to the treatment table where I was covered with a professional formulation of kaolin clay, herbal powders, green coffee extract, caffeine and sea algae; this formulation helped to open, cleanse and detox after being wrapped. I also noticed that the concoction made me sweat quite a bit, which was the object of this treatment phase; as a component of the treatment, my very capable therapist also massaged my face. After this phase, I was led to the Swiss Shower to wash and rinse away any product residue; this shower was exhilarating with its sixteen high-powered jets. The treatment ended with a thorough application of the Moisturizing Body Lotion. Plenty of water to rehydrate following my experience was another focal point of this treatment.

An incredible Relaxation Massage was the icing on the proverbial spa cake. The therapist used Biotone Organic Massage Cream (www.biotone.com). My outstanding therapist also has a clientele list that includes a number of professional athletes, including the Chicago Bears. Impressive, yes, but it was her thorough and highly effective massage technique that was remarkable; she reacquainted me with many body parts I had almost forgotten about. The treatment was highly relaxing, but especially therapeutic with its targeted focus. An incredible, albeit abbreviated foot reflexology was also included.

The sequence of these treatments was an ideal way to maximize restoration and relaxation. For more information, visit www.theabbeyresort.com.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Image: Spa atrium pool; copyright, Abbey/Avani)

SPA TREATMENTS AND PRODUCT EXPERIENCES ~ PART IV ~

Stonedrift Spa at Eagle Ridge Resort (Galena, IL)

Galena is an historic Victorian-era city located in the Northeastern part of the state, due west from Chicago. This area was carved out by glaciers, making the terrian markedly steep and rolling. IL and two other states have borders that converge at this point, WI and IA; all are clearly visible and in close proximity to each other. Many come to play world-class golf at the Eagle Ridge Resort, but the spa-savvy knows that Stonedrift Spa is where the real action occurs.

Treatment Experiences: Transcendent Facial and Mystic Sage Stone Ritual

Products used: Transcendent Facial uses Eminence Organics (www.eminenceorganics.com) products that included Stone Crop Cleanser, Citrus Cleanser, Stone Crop Hydrating Mist, AHA Fruit Pulp Exfoliant, Stone Crop Masque, Blueberry Soy Repair Masque, Tomato Seed Vitamin E Oil, Stone Crop Whip Moisturizer, Naseberry Eye Exfoliant, Raspberry Eye Masque, Wild Plum Eye Cream, and Citrus Lip Balm.

What was exceptional about this treatment was that the cleansing, exfoliation, mask and hydration steps were given twice. The thoroughness of these outstanding products intensified the results of the treatment, which totally restored and brightened the skin. For me, the least favorite of the products were the eye products; I’m not a fan of fruit aromas in skincare products (except for citrus); that said, however, the product’s diminished my personal preferences. I enjoyed the Citrus Cleanser and especially the Stone Crop products. The treatment was a thorough sensory experience that included balance, restoration, and revitalization. Chakra balancing with gemstones, a thorough massage of the décolleté, arms, hands and feet, added to this multi-phase dimensional facial.

Another treatment experience was the Mystic Sage Stone Ritual. This treatment was another multi-phase and dimensional therapy that completely restored and uplifted my droopy persona. The treatment began with an application of Oregon Tilth (www.tilth.org) organic herbal poultices of peppermint and lavender. Then, hot stones were placed on specific pressure points, while the body was massaged with infusions of clary sage and sage Ess Pure Essential Oils (various distributors). Between the intoxicating aromas of the essential oils, the incredibly relaxing deep penetration from the hot stones and my therapist’s technique, I was transformed and restored.

These restorative treatments, plus my therapist’s skillful technique, made for an enjoyable experience. For more information visit www.eagleridgeresort.com.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Image: Relaxation room; copyright, Eagle Ridge/Stonedrift)

SPA TREATMENTS AND PRODUCT EXPERIENCES ~ PART III ~

Kohler Waters Spa (Burr Ridge, IL)

Burr Ridge is an affluent Western suburb of Chicago. The new day spa opened in the spring of 2008 and is contiguous to their new Design Center.

Treatment experiences: Deep Detox Body Treatment

Products used: Skin Authority (www.skinauthority.com) and Fleur’s (www.fleursusa.com).

Before even setting foot into my treatment room, I opted to try the Circle of Tranquility. This was a recommended pre-treatment experience for all guests, and definitely sets apart Kohler Waters Spa from its competition. Kohler is definitive to water. The circular room for this water indulgence includes three different types of stimulating Kohler shower experiences (Quench, Envelop and Deluge); a 25ft. whirlpool area, complete with an eight-foot waterfall and water massage station, eight-foot cold plunge pool, dry sauna and steam. It’s recommended that guests try to spend at least thirty-minutes prior to their spa treatment getting prepped with this exceptional water immersion experience. The pre-treatment ritual is amazing and a definite must-do.

After a slight cool down, I traipsed over to the Relaxation Area and got rehydrated. My therapist greeted me and led me to my treatment area. She explained all of the elements of the treatment. All treatment products were by Skin Authority (SA), with the exception of the Fleur’s essential oils used during the facial massage step.

The Deep Detox Body Treatment began with a total body scrub with SA Purifying Energy Stimulation Scrub; the product was then removed with hot towels. Next, a full-body application of SA Deep Detox Ritual Mask, which contains Rhassoul clay, was applied; I was then wrapped with warming blankets; as I’m sweating and detoxifying, my therapist began giving me a very relaxing facial pressure point massage with Fleur’s Moisturizing Rare Essence Essential Oil for Dry Skin. The pressure point massage is extended to my shoulders, neck and scalp; after being totally transported to a place I could easily call home, I’m gently prodded to my in-room Kohler Ambient Rain shower to thoroughly rinse off any of the clay mask residue; returning to my the table, I’m given a super-hydrating application of SA Olive, Fig, Shea Butter Body Cream. My skin’s texture felt amazing, and the aromas of all products were calming. My therapist left a generous amount of water for rehydration.

The multi-dimensional Deep Detox Body Treatment delivered positive results and was very effective. The treatment not only relaxed me, but also significantly reduced my stress levels and left me with a definite spring in my step; both treatments also exceeded my expectation. For additional information visit www.kohlerwatersspa.com.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Image: Part of the water experience; copyright, Kohler)

SPA TREATMENTS AND PRODUCT EXPERIENCES ~ PART II ~

mySpa at Fairmont Hotel (Chicago, IL)

Treatment Experience: myRitual Hammam

Originating in the Middle East and taken to the new world (Spain) by migratory conquerors, the Hammam’s history is well documented and dates back over one thousand years. The Hammam traditionally included water, heat, steam, exfoliation and massage. Today’s hammam experiences continue this historical therapeutic ritual with aspects of detoxification, energizing, cleansing, purifying, relaxation and hydration.

Products used: Red Flower Hammam (www.redflower.com). This was a multi-dimensional body treatment ritual, emphasizing Red Flower’s individual treatment phases of cleanse, scrub, polish, replenish and enrich.

Preparatory/Cleanse: A private shower primes the detoxification and purification process using the Moroccan Mint Tea Silt Purifier.

Scrub/Polish/Invigorate: Lying on a warmed treatment table, my therapist began the treatment with an application of Lemon Coffee Blossom Olive Stone Scrub; various massage techniques gently exfoliated and polished my skin. Hot towels were then used to remove the product.

Detoxify/Relax: A full-body application of Jasmine Rose Rhassoul Clay Polish was followed with my feet being wrapped in hot toweling; next, my body was also wrapped and covered in layers of blankets. My eyes were then covered with an eye pillow to further induce a state of deep relaxation. This helped to stimulate my body’s radiant heat, which induced sweating. As I self steamed, my therapist then massaged my shoulders, neck, face and scalp. I was unwrapped and escorted to the in-room shower to rinse off any traces of product.

Recharge: Toweled off, I got back onto the table, while the entire treatment area was misted with Orange Quince Steam Room Mist; its lovely aroma gently floated on me in the form of delicate droplets.

Relaxing Warmth: As a ritualistic blessing, the therapist then began massaging into my entire body warmed Cardamom Amber Oil, which furthered my state of relaxation, while rehydrating my skin.

Replenish/Enrich/Illuminate: The treatment ritual culminated with an application of an incredibly dense moisturizer, Tangerine Fig Butter Crème. Red Flower recommends a final bath soak, using their Neroli Cypress High Atlas Bath Soak; however, this step wasn’t offered at mySpa during my visit.

Red Flower found a way to formulate these products to conform and compliment one another in what seems to be dissimilar aroma-based products. By layering each individual product, a dense and heady mix of formulations result. Each product intensifies the efficacy of the previous product used. The aromas were complex and sophisticated. Individually, the product formulations and aromas worked well, but synchronously, they became incredibly effective and very aroma-therapeutic. My therapist’s technique was wonderful. My skin’s texture was silky and revitalized and my aches and pains were a faint memory. A chilled bottle of Evian (www.evian.com) for rehydration awaited me outside my door. My therapist escorted me to the Relaxation Area. All in all, the myRitual Hammam treatment ritual was an extraordinary treatment experience and exceeded my expectation. For additional information, visit www.myspachicago.com.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Image: Spa hallway; copyright, Fairmont Hotel)

SPA TREATMENTS AND PRODUCT EXPERIENCES ~ PART I ~

The Spa at Trump, Trump International Hotel & Tower (Chicago, IL)

This new eponymous tribute to luxury is in the heart of Chicago’s downtown area, and in close proximity to the tony Mag Mile, where money continues to flow, despite the economy. Extraordinary views and scapes of the Windy City await the guest. It’s Trump, so what else would you expect?

Treatment Experience: Royal Lulur Ritual

The Royal Lulur is a 17th Century indigenous treatment ritual given to a royal bride-to-be over a forty consecutive day period prior to her wedding. The bride’s female family members would prepare her body for her betrothed and impart sage wisdom on what to expect as she transitioned into wedded bliss.

Products used: JAMU Asian Spa Rituals (www.jamuspa.com).

Live gardenia blooms (which I love) adorned my enormous treatment room. Half of the room was for the treatment area, while the other half accommodated a huge Kohler (www.kohler.com)overflow tub with jets that synchronously change to Chakra colors. The room also was filled with the delicate aromas of jasmine and frangipani; rounding out the visual and olfactory experience was the visual of an explosion of illusion candles everywhere my eyes focused.

Before the treatment began, my therapist explained the significance of the traditional ritual and then presents a tray of fresh gardenia blossoms and treatment products. After inhaling these heady aromas, my therapist left the room and I made my way towards the warmed treatment table and immediately wanted to fall asleep. My therapist began the treatment by applying Jasmine Frangipani Organic Massage and Body Oil. Using a combination of Asian and European massage techniques, my circulation was revitalized while my taught and achy muscles became pliable.

After the massage phase, an exfoliating Lulur scrub (Jasmine Organic Body, Hand & Foot Scrub), which contained tumeric, rice bran and Indonesian herbs, was mixed into a paste with some of the Jasmine and Frangipani Organic Massage and Body Oil. The scrub was applied to the entire body, which polished and brightened the skin. Resting briefly while the scrub air-dried, warmed yogurt was then applied on top of the scrub and massaged into the skin; hot towels were then used to meticulously remove the scrub and yogurt mixture. I was then wrapped in sheeting and escorted to my soaking tub, where I methodically cleansed myself further with Jasmine Frangipani Organic Bath & Shower Gel. The fragile aroma of numerous gardenia blossoms surrounding my tub’s perimeter, combined with the delicate aromas of jasmine and frangipani was almost distractive to the underwater lights in the enormous soaking tub as they changed colors; I definitely felt like royalty. As I languidly soaked in floral splendor, an arm’s reach bottle of New Zealand’s geothermal water, Waiwera (http://www.waiwerawater.co.nz) was a reminder for me to drink and rehydrate. A faint knock was heard, which signaled that I had to reluctantly leave my new aquatic refuge area and return to the table. The grand finale of this exquisite treatment ritual included a closing round of calming massage strokes and a thorough application of Jasmine Frangipani Organic Hand & Body Lotion, which helped to replenish and hydrate my skin. As my ritual experience concluded, my outstanding therapist imparted a Balinese blessing on me by saying, “Om Suasti Astu”, or “peace in your heart and in the world”. Again, I didn’t want to leave, but pried myself off of the table. My therapist waited for me outside the room and gave me another bottle of Waiwera water to drink for continued rehydration; he then escorted me to the beautiful women’s Relaxation Area.

I thoroughly enjoyed my Royal Lulur treatment. My therapist’s technique was exceptional, and magically transformed my skin with JAMU's outstanding products, while totally eliminating my stress, aches and pains; my skin’s texture was greatly improved and left silky smooth to the touch; the skin also had a noticeable glow. After the treatment, I felt incredibly lighter. The ritual experience was a beautiful sensory experience as well. The Royal Lulur Ritual exceeded my expectations. For additional information visit www.trumpchicagohotel.com.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Image: Spa tub, floating flowers; copyright, Huber)

SPA TREATMENTS AND PRODUCT EXPERIENCES ~ INTRODUCTION ~

OVERVIEW: Selecting the right mix of products to use during the treatment phase can make all the difference between a guest experience that is mediocre versus one that’s memorable and defines the spa experience. Furthering that experience by making sure these same products are also available to the guest in the retail area will ensure that the guest will be able to purchase the same products and re-create their treatment on an at-home basis. Consider including with their purchase a how-to guide on the proper use of the products to maximize their at-home experience. This added value will further the guest experience.

Following is a series of overviews of some recent spas I’ve experienced, the treatments received and the related treatment products used during the course of the treatment.

• Part I The Spa at Trump Hotel (Chicago, IL)
• Part II mySpa at Fairmont Hotel (Chicago, IL)
• Part III Kohler Waters Spa (Burr Ridge, IL)
• Part IV Stonedrift Spa at Eagle Ridge Resort (Galena, IL)
• Part V Avani Spa at Abbey Resort (Fontana, WI)
• Part VI Spa at Geneva Ridge Resort (Lake Geneva, WI)
• Part VII Spa at Wynn Las Vegas Hotel Resort (Las Vegas, NV)

SUMMARY: I wasn’t disappointed with the experiences or the products used and have actually found them ideally formulated and suited for an at-home experience. Of course, nothing can ever replace the skillful hands of qualified therapists and estheticians, and although the at-home experience is an acceptable interim for a spa-fix, nothing will ever replace an in-spa experience. These are experience investments that keep delivering, whether from the standpoint of at-home product use and treatment re-creation, or through memory recall of skilled hands administering the treatment.

I’d like to commend all professionals who make informed decisions on which treatment lines to use within their operation. Given the scope of product companies and products available, not too mention the new and “me-too” products entering in the marketplace that seemingly pop-up overnight, it must be a daunting task at times making the best product selections. If you’re not familiar with some of these lines, be sure to check out their websites for more information.


By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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