Meet Marjorie Charlton, a 13-year veteran of the industry and brand spa curator for Atrio Spa at Las Alcobas (St. Helena, CA) and Aurora, The Spa at Las Alcobas (Mexico City, Mexico).
American Spa: What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
Majorie Charlton: Sheer curiosity; I had no idea I would end up where I am today. I started to take massage classes as a hobby while studying philosophy at Loyola University. I continued massage, herbal, and alternate philosophy classes purely out of enjoyment, not knowing that later in my life, I would shift careers completely and enter the spa world as a therapist, spa director, spa consultant, and brand curator.
AS: What are the most challenging and rewarding parts about working in the spa industry?
MC: The most rewarding part of my job is seeing someone walk into the spa, appearing as though they are carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders, and come out looking completely different. The most challenging part is sourcing great therapists.
AS: What has surprised you most about the spa world?
MC: The amount of detail that it takes to create the perfect spa experience.
AS: Where do you think the industry is heading?
MC: I think it’s heading towards more education for spa guests. In a world that is moving at such a fast pace, there is a real need to teach people how to practice wellbeing and what steps they can take in their everyday lives to get closer to their source and find meaning in their lives.
AS: What is the most bizarre treatment you’ve experienced?
MC: A fish foot-eating treatment. One of those once-in-a-lifetime spa treatments that you just have to try to see what all the buzz is about.
AS: What new spa treatment would you like to try?
MC: Any Japanese-inspired treatment.
AS: What’s your go-to treatment?
MC: Tui na and cupping. It always fixes me, whether I am struggling with something physical, mental, or emotional.
AS: What two things about you don’t we know?
MC: I love to paint in oils, and fasting is a big part of my life.
AS: If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would it be?
MC: I would love to be a dog trainer.
AS: How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
MC: Keep it simple. Keep it real.
AS: What’s the best advice you’ve received?
MC: Gratitude is the key to a happy life.
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