Romance is as varied as the people who fall in love. What conjures feelings of affection for some may seem trivial and have no effect on others. So, what better way to cater to the many variations of romance than with a customized spa experience. “A treatment becomes romantic when it is tailored toward the couple experiencing it together,” says Joyce Owens, spa director at The Omni Homestead Resort (Hot Springs, VA). “It allows for couples to strengthen their connection with one another while strengthening themselves.” Now that Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, I asked spa directors to share how they make spa treatments extra romantic. Here’s what they say tips a treatment into the relaxing realm of romance.
A key component is providing guests with a relaxing and organic ambiance that allows them to connect with one another in a peaceful space. Through the scents of natural oils and surrounding flora and fauna and the warmth of the thermal springs, couples are able to get in some much-needed quality time. A combination of aromas, textures, contemplation spaces, romantic atmosphere, and adding special touches to our services, such as a traditional Costa Rican love chant, helps strengthen the bond between couples.—Mónica Sanabria, spa manager, Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa (Costa Rica)
To make treatments romantic requires engaging the senses in a manner that promotes those loving feelings. Small details like lighting levels, candles, scents, and oils make a big difference. The key component of any romantic spa treatment is recognizing what the consumer wants in a romantic experience. They want an experience that enhances their connection. It is key to provide a calm and private atmosphere and most importantly, to communicate with the couple as “one."— Maureen Vipperman, director of spa operations, Sandpearl Resort (Clearwater Beach, FL)
The key component for a romantic spa experience is the gift of time. Time is the most valuable gift people can give each other and sharing an experience that enhances wellness and wellbeing is a great way to heighten the romance. For the majority of our Couples Suite Experiences we typically recommend our Time Rituals, which encourage guests to book time rather than specific treatments, so that services can be tailor-made to meet individual needs. —Virginia Lara, director of spa, Mandarin Oriental, Boston
We are finding the intention of the clients will add more romance to the spa experience. We have more candles in the couples’ treatment rooms, and we are now also serving Allure Crystal Gem Water (Garnet and Clear Quartz) perfect for lovers as red garnet is described the symbol for sensuality and passion. During Valentine’s Day, we are serving Cupids Kiss Gem Water, in the Ladies lounge. Rose Quartz is the quintessential stone of love and sensuality, it is also used to release emotional wounds and balance emotions.—Tricia Avery, spa director, M Spa at Madeline Hotel and Residences (Telluride, CO)
A romantic treatment places emphasis on the couple’s needs and highlights the unity between partners, while a traditional service is focused on individual needs.— Wendi Gelfound, PR director, Sunrise Springs Spa Resort (Santa Fe, NM)
Customization of the couples’ treatment room sets a romantic treatment apart from traditional services. We add the guests' favorite touches such as rose petals of the woman’s favorite color, perfume, choice of music or a glass of champagne.—Melina Pourcel, spa manager of Dior Institut at Hotel Plaza Athénée, Paris
Romantic spa experiences are those that artfully manifest deep stillness, inspire reflection, and ignite relationships. Utilizing scent, ambiance and customization, our romantic treatments are tailored for the individual and the couple. Connection is a key ingredient to our couple’s spa therapies—both connection with self and connection between partners.—Claire Bondivenne, spa manager, Spa My Blend by Clarins at Le Guanahani (St. Barth)
The setting, ambience, and service enhancements are key components of any romantic treatment. At the Hibiscus Spa, we pay attention to every single detail to create a memorable experience to add that additional spark between couples and to ensure that the guests enjoy not only the service, but each other. —Yarlin Faurer, spa director, Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa
Romantic treatments feature sensual ingredients and aromas such as: honey, champagne, chocolate, rose, and sandalwood. I love classical best as romantic music, as it is effective in evoking deep emotion while relaxing the mind. Aphrodisiac foods like oysters, champagne, dark chocolate, chilies, figs, and more. High touch experiences such as slow, rhythmic massage protocols make a treatment more romantic. If we can create a relaxing environment where guests can focus on their loved one, and leave us with a memorable experience, we've achieved success.—Mindy Terry, vice president of spa and wellness, Carillon Miami Wellness Resort (Miami Beach, FL)