4 minute read
CUSTOM LUXURY Whether
FIND YOUR SERENITY
Make Your Spa Visit a Lifestyle
BY ZANDRA WOLFGRAM
Shanelle Lucas has worked with Hilton brand hotels for 16 years, including her current job as director of spa services for Serenity by the sea Spa. But she has another unofficial title. “They call us ‘day makers,’ because we like to make people’s days,” says Lucas.
A 14,500-square-foot, sea-inspired facility, Serenity lives up to its name, not only because of the beautiful surroundings, but also because of the passionate and caring wellness team led by Lucas.
“I believe if you take care of your employees, they’ll take care of the guests,” says Lucas.
With upwards of 150 reservations a day, Serenity is one of the most popular spas on the Gulf Coast.
“People come in because they are looking for an escape, have sore muscles in need of care, or just to relax and unwind,” Lucas says, “and then you see them come out completely transformed. It makes it all worthwhile when you get to leave each evening feeling like you’ve made a difference.”
And by people, Lucas means everyone. “We see entire families: mom, dad, brothers and sisters,” Lucas says. “They are taking spa-cations. That’s what’s trending — people coming to the property for the sole purpose of a spa retreat.” By making appointments and spreading them out all week, Lucas says spa goers can take full advantage of all of Serenity’s amenities — such as the relaxation lounges, whirlpools, steam rooms, saunas and fitness center.
“I see our guests really embracing the spa as a lifestyle,” she says. “It’s not just about one service anymore.”
And Serenity isn’t just for the grownups. Here, little ones are guests of honor. With customized treatments designed with kids in mind, such as the Sherbet Splash Pedicure and Swirls & Curls salon service, kids as young as 5, when accompanied by an adult, can indulge in “me time.”
Teens are also coming in for skin care focused services. Those under 18 are welcome to schedule massages as long as an adult accompanies them.
And the gentlemen are not letting women have all the fun. “Self-care is big now with men, too,” Lucas says. They are “going wild” for the beard treatment and skincare line Organic Male. So much so that Lucas placed a four-step grooming bar
TIPS FROM THE EXPERTS ♦ Due to high demand, we suggest making reservations in advance. ♦ Robes and slippers are provided, but remember to bring your swimsuit and fitness attire. ♦ After a treatment, hydrate with our complimentary fruit-infused water located in the lounge. ♦ Quarterly spa events are a great way to learn about and test out new products and services.
Treat yourself to a massage, or make a day of it. Live your best life with a full spa visit that features manicures, pedicures, facials, soaks, cold plunge showers and a stay in the sauna.
MILES PARTNERSHIP
Discover the best version of yourself during your visit to Hilton Sandestin Beach, whether that means pampering or a workout.
Spa Director Shanelle Lucas
in the men’s lounge. “When gentlemen come in asking for moisturizer, you know it’s a good product,” she says.
This spirited spa director keeps an eye on the latest spa products and trends by attending global industry conferences. “I love learning new techniques and bringing back new ideas for our guests and members to enjoy,” Lucas says.
One of the latest crazes is CBD (cannabidiol) oil, which is used to ease inflammation and help with pain. Metals also are trending. The spa’s 24-carat gold body wrap is said to boost collagen and restore elasticity in skin. Ask our team member how you too can “dabble in gold” when adding a mini golden facial to any treatment.
Another “haute” trend is literally making things hotter. “Heat therapy is big,” Lucas says. Hot stones, heated oils, heated neck wraps, warm mud masks and other heating elements are in demand. “Heat relaxes the muscles so the treatment can permeate completely, which intensifies the experience,” she explains.
Lucas listens to feedback from spa guests and members alike, and sometimes it results in a new offering or service. Eldoa yoga, a technique that helps strengthen the spine, is a class that was inspired by a spa member. It’s perfect for people that sit for long durations, the elderly with sciatic issues, or golfers looking to improve their swing. Once a limited-time special, the Moroccan body melt is now featured on the spa service menu after a flood of positive guest feedback.
Another signature service, the HydraFacial, is in such high demand that Lucas has added a fourth treatment station. If you want more from your HydraFacial, you can opt for the deluxe or the platinum version, which Lucas describes as a “90-minute ultimate facial experience,” complete with a serum booster, customized mask and LED light therapy to reduce signs of aging.
“I love what I do,” Lucas says. “People feed off energy, and Serenity by the sea Spa has positive energy … for everyone.”
OUR MEMORIES • “A family came to me with an issue — they purchased a skimboard for their son, and he was unsure of how to use it. The father was in a meeting, and the mother had never used one before. They asked me to demonstrate, and I ended up teaching the son how to skim! The family was very thankful and has kept in touch with me ever since. Now it is a joy to see them year after year when they visit.” Ian Mackenzie, Beach Attendant
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