Get to Know Spa of the Pines's Spa Director Summer Baron

Meet Summer Baron, a 12 year industry veteran and the spa director at Spa of the Pines at Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa (CA).

Summer Baron, spa director at Spa of the Pines

American Spa: How many years have you been involved in the spa and hospitality industry?
Summer Baron: I’ve been working in the spa industry for 12 years.

AS: What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
SB: My interest in health and wellness led me to the spa industry. I’m also interested in helping make a difference, which I definitely believe spas can help do.

AS: What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of being in the spa industry?
SB: Having a type-A personality, my biggest challenge is pacing myself. We’re constantly learning about new health and wellness products and techniques, and I like to keep the Spa of the Pines in front of those trends. The biggest reward is making a difference in someone’s life. Many spa goers are getting away from their hectic lives or trying to heal through a personal tragedy. I’m happy to help bring calm and peace into someone’s life.

AS: What is your proudest accomplishment?
SB: I most enjoy watching my team continue to develop, grow, and advance under my leadership.

AS: What has surprised you most about working in the spa industry?
SB: I’m most surprised about how many different segments there are in the spa industry. There are health and wellness, of course, but there are also beauty care, fitness, medical support, nutrition, spiritual, and so much more.

AS: Where do you think the industry is heading?
SB: I believe people are realizing “health is your wealth,” so more and more people will be looking to self-care.

AS: What’s your favorite skincare ingredient?
SB: I love vitamin C because it brightens, lightens, and tightens the skin. It also comes in a clean and organic form versus a chemical.

AS: If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would you be?
SB: I would work in nursing as I enjoy working with people, giving back, and making a difference in people’s lives.

AS: What is the strangest client request you’ve fielded?
SB: A guest once requested a massage with no pressure or aromatherapy and wanted to leave the lights on as well as remove any extra furniture in the room. People relax in different ways.

AS: What’s your go-to spa treatment?
SB: My go-to treatment is a customized massage with tangerine for energy, finished with reflexology and lymphatic draining.

AS: What new spa treatment would you like to try?
SB: I’m intrigued by the HydraFacial–it’s such an amazing treatment.

AS: What’s the best advice you’ve received?
SB: Stay true to who you are and don’t blow with the wind.

AS: How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
​​​​​​​SB: My personal philosophy is to take care of your health and family. Without either, you have nothing.

AS: How do you like to spend your time away from work?
​​​​​​​SB: I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, juicing, and eating clean.

AS: What are your three greatest priorities in life?
​​​​​​​SB: My priorities include self-care, respect, and integrity.

AS: What are two things we don’t know about you?
​​​​​​​SB: I’m vegan and have twins–a boy and a girl.


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