How many years have you been involved in the spa industry?
I’ve always had a strong interest and passion for the spa and wellness industries and was appointed as the spa director at Hotel Arts Barcelona in April 2014.
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
I have worked in the hotel industry for 10 years. Prior to this, I studied tourism and acquired a master’s degree in hotel management in Barcelona, Holland, and London. I’ve always loved trying new products and treatments, and I make sure to have a monthly spa appointment to ensure my own personal wellbeing, as well as to keep up with the latest spa trends.
Where do you think the industry is heading?
The industry is booming because of the growing interest in health and wellness. People are taking more time for themselves and are increasingly focused on their personal wellbeing and appearance. Both men and women are showing more interest especially in anti-aging treatments. Guests want their skin to be smooth and wrinkle-free, and we have received a growing number of requests for facials, as well as skincare products that reduce the appearance of wrinkles and tighten skin to give it a more youthful appearance. An additional trend we are seeing is the use of chia and quinoa extract to nourish and hydrate the skin.
What has surprised you most about working in the spa industry?
The quantity of men interested in taking care of their skin nowadays because they, too, want to look younger and cover up their wrinkles has been quite surprising. It has also been interesting to see how popular eye firming products and treatments are becoming.
What is the strangest client request you’ve fielded?
We had a guest that tried our diamond anti-aging treatment for the first time, and when he saw the immediate effect, he was elated. He decided that he would no longer use Botox and would instead come to us for our anti-aging treatments.
What is the most bizarre treatment you’ve experienced?
I tried a diamond powder scrub that has to be removed with a magnet. It is different than any other scrubs.
What’s your go-to spa treatment?
A hot stone or candle massage.
What’s your favorite skincare ingredient?
My favorite skincare ingredient is double hyaluronic acid.
Tell us two things about yourself we don’t know.
I like speaking with each client and creating a specific experience in order to ensure they are happy with their visit.
What positions have you worked in that you feel have been most influential to your career?
I’ve worked in sales and feel like my experience in that field has helped me in my role as a spa director. When speaking to clients, it is important to be able to explain the spa experience, products, and treatments offered. Having a properly trained team is essential to our success, so we make sure they are equipped with the skills to take care of our guests as well as educate them about the products we sell. It is also very beneficial to have an active team. My previous roles have taught me the importance of marketing, having a strong web presence, and creating new experiences in order to attract the public.
If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would it be?
It would be in public relations for luxury goods, such as Chanel and Gucci.
How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
Positivity. If you believe in something, you can achieve it.