Meet Tina Hay, spa director at The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Houston.
How many years have you been involved in the spa and hospitality industry?
I have been in the spa and fitness industry for more than 19 years.
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
I was working at a boutique spa while studying business management and quickly realized that spa and fitness was my passion, and I made it my career focus.
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of working in the spa industry?
The most rewarding aspect is seeing our guests transform from a state of stress into a state of relaxation and wellbeing and working with such a talented team of spa professionals. I also love meeting guests from all over the world. I always find it challenging on those occasions that the day does not go as planned, because our sole purpose is to ensure every guest walks away feeling uplifted in some way.
What has surprised you most about the spa world?
It is how continuously rewarding it is on so many levels from the people you meet and work with to all of the wonderful products and treatments I get to experience while traveling and attending spa conferences.
Where do you think the industry is heading?
There will be a continued focus on wellbeing and taking time out to revive yourself in the midst of the fast pace of life.
What is the strangest client request you’ve fielded?
I’ve been pretty lucky to not have anything too out there.
What is the most bizarre treatment you’ve experienced?
I’ve always been curious about the fish pedicure but haven’t experienced it yet.
What new spa treatment would you like to try?
I would love to travel to Thailand and experience a traditional Thai Massage.
What’s your go-to spa treatment?
I can always count on a good deep tissue massage to reboot when I am feeling stressed and a signature HydraFacial to restore radiance to my skin.
What are two things we don’t know about you?
I love to cook and create recipes with a healthy spin on my favorites foods, especially pasta. I also participated in the Over the Edge fundraiser and rapelled off of the 30th floor of our hotel.
If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would it be?
I have always had a passion and natural knack for planning events and love marketing and promotions.
How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
My personal philosophy is ‘When life gives you rain, go play in the puddles.’ I have learned over the years to be present in the moment. Take one day at a time, and if things aren’t going as planned, take a deep breath and start over as tomorrow is truly a new day.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
Attitude is everything. The approach you take in life determines the outcome.