Get to know Janet Denyer, CEO, mother of two, surfer, snowboarder extraordinaire!
How many years have you been involved in the spa/hospitality industry?
This will be my 30th year anniversary!
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
As a young woman, I was very interested in fitness and nutrition so I majored in health and physical education in college with a goal of working in the commercial fitness industry. My first job happened to be as a fitness instructor at a destination spa. I absolutely got hooked on the whole spa concept of health, beauty and well being and the rest is history. I was the first spa director for Marriott back in 1986. I also did spa development consulting for 8 years before entering the day spa arena as Senior VP of Operations for Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas, and now as CEO of Gene Juarez Salons, LLC.
What is your favorite place in the world?
Seattle, Washington on a clear, warm sunny day. There is nothing else like it on earth!
If you could have any profession in the world, other than what you do now, what would you be?
I was always interested in dance and thought it would be so neat to make a living as a professional dancer or choreographer. Unfortunately I realized I wasn't really talented enough to do this, although it made me a perfect fit for the aerobics movement in the 80's!
What is your motto or concept that you live by?
Always try to leave something better than you found it.
What is your most treasured possession?
Other than precious time with my wonderful family and pets, I would have to say I love my Martin acoustic guitar.
What’s your go-to spa treatment?
I love a great relaxing massage.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Being married for 35 years and raising two amazing children, who've grown to be wonderful talented adults.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would lose my executive spread and get back into top shape.
Care to share any details on family life, i.e. spouse, partner, children, pets?
As I mentioned I have been married for 35 years to a great husband, Richard. We are empty nesters who love to experience all the Pacific NW outdoors offers, particularly hiking and snowboarding. I already mentioned my grown kids who both happen to be pursuing creative fields in art direction and graphic design. We also have 2 giant laborador retrivers, Beau and Luke (Dukes of Hazard), who accompany us on our many hikes. I affectionately refer to them as my "treadmills with fur."
Tell us two things about yourself we don’t know.
I learned how to surf when I was 38 years old and I loved it so much that I took up snowboarding at 41. Professionally speaking, I served on the board of directors for the American Council On Exercise for 6 years, and currently reside on the Corporate Leadership Council for Seattle Children's Hospital and Research Institute. My dream is to get involved in the fight against childhood obesity.