Spa Talk with Relâche Spa & Salon's Spa Director Jocelyn Farmer

Meet Jocelyn Farmer, spa director of Relâche Spa & Salon at Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center (Aurora, CO), and a 12-year veteran in the industry. 


American Spa: What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
Jocelyn Farmer: My love for people and passion to connect with others. 

AS: What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of working in the industry? 
JF: Being a “swan,” calm and approachable on the outside and kicking quickly and efficiently underwater and out of view in order to reach my goal at that moment and maintain the spa persona. 

AS: What has surprised you most about the spa world? 
JF: The rewards. As an outsider, when you think about the spa industry, you may think money, glitz, and glamour, but once you understand the wellness industry, you realize the need for it versus the want, and you see your guests benefiting from it.  

AS: Where do you think the industry is heading?
JF: Over the past decade, I have seen the spa outlet go from an amenity to a key revenue driver. I have also seen it become a major focus for its stakeholders, ranging from the resort itself, ownership, and the community. This trend will likely only strengthen in the years to come as overall health and wellness continue to be a top priority.  

AS: What is the strangest client request you’ve fielded? 
JF: I do not know if I find it strange, but it was out of the norm. We had a VIP in house who after her concert wanted a foot massage in her room until she fell asleep. I know if I was on stage for hours in high heels, I would probably want the same, too. 

AS: What new spa treatment would you like to try? 
JF: Being so involved over the years in the spa operation, I really do not experience as many treatments as I should. My spa treatment bucket list consists of Watsu, a vichy shower service, and a Thai massage. As for New Age services, I would love to try a sound bowl incorporated into a service and a spa treatment on a quartz crystal table or salt stone table.  

AS: What’s your go-to spa treatment? 
JF: Deep-tissue massage 

AS: What two things about you don’t we know?
JF: Outside of work, when I’m not running errands or cleaning house, I enjoy being active. I love aerial arts, scuba diving, and snowboarding.  

AS: If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would you be?
JF: I would be a travel agent. I love to plan and travel. 

AS: How would you sum up your personal philosophy? 
JF: I completely believe in “fake it until you become it.” We are in charge of ourselves. No one else is going to make you happy or successful, at least not completely. 

AS: What’s the best advice you’ve received?
JF: My father would always quote, “Those who don’t know history are doomed to repeat it.” I think this quote applies in business and on a personal level.
 

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