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Vol. LXIV, No. 9
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Wednesday, March 3, 2010
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Vol. LXIV, No. 9
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Wednesday, March 3, 2010
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 RELAXING REJUVENATION: “Facials and massages have been a necessity disguised as a luxury,” point out Frank and Alice Luis, owners of Massage Envy Spa in the Montgomery Center. “In fact, they offer many important benefits, including promoting better circulation and relaxation, soothing muscles, and improving skin tone and texture.” Aesthetician Valeria Pedro is shown in the spa’s comfortable dual purpose massage and facial room. |
The days may be getting longer, but a look out the window is sure proof that winter is still very much with us. If the snow and cold weather have got you down, a perfect upper is a massage and facial at Massage Envy Spa in the Montgomery Center.
Opened just 15 months ago, it has become a popular spot for those seeking both relaxation and rejuvenation.
“There are many benefits of massage,” says owner and massage therapist Frank Luis. “It promotes good circulation, helps the immune system, relieves muscle aches and pains, and it’s a good stress reducer.”
“We introduced Murad facials in October,” adds his wife and co-owner Alice Luis. “Our Murad signature facials are from specially formulated products, and benefits include moisturizing, improved skin tone and texture, reducing blemishes and breakouts, and increasing circulation.”
Four types of facials are available: age reform; Vitamin C/environmental shield; sensitive skin; and clarifying enzyme anti-blemish.
“The aesthetician determines what is the best facial for each client’s skin type,” continues Ms. Luis. “All the facials are in demand, and we are also getting more requests for back facials. One client was going on a cruise recently, and she wanted to look great in a bathing suit and sun dress.”
Customized Massage
The variety of massages includes Swedish, deep tissue, sports, hot stone, reflexology, and pre-natal.
“The customized massage is most popular,” reports Ms. Luis. “A client might want extra time on his or her shoulders or back, or a scalp massage, or on the sinus area to relieve pressure and headaches. It can be very individualized. It could also be someone, needing help from overdoing soccer or tennis! We see a lot of those ‘weekend warriors’!”
Mr. Luis, who is available by request, specializes in deep tissue massage therapy. And he attests to the value of regular massage. “I had been in the trucking business, and I wanted to make a change. I had enjoyed having regular massages myself, and I decided I wanted to have a career in massage.”
He went back to school and became a licensed massage therapist. It was time well-spent, he reports. “I have been very happy with the change in careers. I enjoy this work, and now I really like to come to work!”
A privately-owned franchise, Massage Envy Spa is one of more than 600 nationwide. The staff of 15 massage therapists and aestheticians are graduates of accredited schools, with a minimum of 600 hours training, says Mr. Luis. Continuing education for the staff is also emphasized at the spa.
“The state comes to verify their credentials,” points out Ms. Luis. “Also, all the therapists and aestheticians have background checks. Clients can be confident about the high quality of our staff.”
Soothing Benefits
Customers are men and women, and all ages, including teens. They not only enjoy the soothing benefits of a massage or facial, but also the spa’s relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Dim lighting, quiet voices, and a soothing water feature set the tone.
“We have a ‘Quiet Room,’ where clients can relax before or after a session, have a cup of tea, and de-stress,” says Ms. Luis. “They can really calm down here. It’s actually good if they can come 15 minutes ahead of the appointment, so they can relax in the Quiet Room.”
Ten treatment rooms, including a dual purpose massage/facial room, are available. In this room, a client can have a massage, followed by a facial, and never have to move!
“We also have a couples massage room with two tables,” notes Ms. Luis. “This can be fun for a mother and daughter to come together, or husband and wife, or two friends.”
Massage and facial sessions are each 60 minutes, and there is a special price of $49 for an introductory massage. The spa also offers a membership program in which clients pay a monthly charge of $59 for a service.
“Typically, people come once a month,” points out Ms. Luis. “Some come every other week and even once a week, however, and if they come more than once a month, as a member, their price is reduced to $49. We have 400 members now, and they have really become friends. We are getting great word-of-mouth and referrals.”
Family Business
“This is a family business,” adds Mr. Luis. “We give everyone personal attention, and we are known for affordability, accessibility, and professionalism. We are really here for our clients. And we want people to know we are on the Friendly’s side of the Montgomery Center.”
“I really enjoy everything in the business,” says Ms. Luis, who is also the book-keeper. “It’s nice to be in a business that is good for people and helps them look and feel better. I love meeting all the clients, and we are really therapeutic.”
Murad skincare products are available for purchase, as are gift cards.
The latter are especially popular,” she adds. “They can be for one service or a combination of services and products. They are a wonderful gift as an introduction to a facial or massage, and they are a favorite Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day gift.”
Massage Envy Spa is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 9 to 6, Sunday 10 to 6. Appointments are recommended for weekends, and walk-ins are also welcomed, especially in the beginning of the week. (609) 921-7000. Website: www.MassageEnvy.com.