Meet Tina Juden, spa director of Lush Spa (New York City)
How many years have you been involved in the spa industry?
I began working with Lush Spa (London) in 2009 with Lush’s first spa on Kings Road. After managing that location for two years, I went on to other areas of the business, including training and public relations, but I always wanted to work with the spas because it’s a side of the Lush business that’s really taking off right now.
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
Retail led me to the spa industry. I have been working in retail for nearly 15 years and was drawn to Lush for its values and amazing products. My aim was to manage a London shop, but when the spa shop on Kings Road became available, it was an opportunity I could not pass up.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
My proudest accomplishment has been to see therapists I have worked with develop and grow within Lush Spa. One of the therapists I worked with has gone on to open a Lush Spa in Paris and another is an international trainer for the spas. Seeing them reach their goals and being able to support them along the way is what I am most proud of.
Where do you think the industry is heading?
Customers are voting with their dollars and making environmentally conscious choices about the clothing they buy and the food they eat. I believe the cosmetic and spa industry is heading in the same direction. At Lush Spas, we incorporate all of the company’s values and dedication to quality in our stores. From our ethical buying policies, non-animal testing policy, fresh handmade products, and personalized treatments, we are giving our customers more than unique and luxurious treatments, we give them peace of mind.
What is the strangest client request you’ve fielded?
To have a client’s sleeping baby in the treatment room—she slept right through the whole treatment.
What’s your go-to spa treatment?
The Spell (60 minutes, $120) is my go-to spa treatment. It's a foot treatment, incorporating the ancient art of treating the body through the feet that allows clients to move past a worry. Whenever I need to let go of something, I have The Spell.
What’s your favorite skincare ingredient?
The Validation (60 minutes, $140) treatment always introduces me to new Lush skincare favorites. I love our fresh face masks, and when one of our therapists recommends one for my skin, it’s always exactly what I need.
Tell us two things about yourself we don’t know.
I'm a qualified yoga teacher and have visited 10 countries.
What positions have you worked in that you feel have been most influential to your career?
The most influential position for me has been as a Lush brand trainer, which taught me how to hone my presentation skills, work a crowd, and that nothing is perfect.
If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would it be?
I would be a full-time yoga teacher.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I'm always striving to be my best self. I'd like to incorporate a meditation practice into my daily routine to begin every day grounded and focused.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
Slow down, love your skin, and love your mind.—Compiled by Jessica Morrobel