Pampering a Deaux
Amanda Pressner
For most nearly-weds, the opportunity to relax and unwind with a much-needed massage usually doesn’t happen until after the honeymoon starts, but some savvy couples are making spa services a priority before walking down the aisle. Not only can a few hours at the spa allow them to take a break during the stressful planning process, it can help deepen their connection with some quality, distraction-free time together.
Best of all, the soothing effects of a spa visit don’t stop the moment the treatment ends. Research reveals that services such as massages can suppress stress levels for a short period of time, helping the bride and groom stay calm and collected as the wedding day gets closer. Thanks to the positive effects on a pair’s well being (and the added romance factor!) it’s no wonder that these traditional services, now tailored to couples, are rapidly becoming the most popular items on the spa menu.
“To accommodate the growing demand for couples’ treatments, spas across the board, from destination resorts to day facilities, are creating roomy suites complete with whirlpool tubs, steam showers, and private relaxation areas,” says Susie Ellis, president of SpaFinder.com. Large enough to accommodate two therapists and the couple, these rooms are perfect for enjoying a treatment in tandem, such as massages, facials, wraps, and scrubs. And rather than feeling rushed to leave after a 50-minute treatment, the pair can book the room for a few hours, and enjoy several services with a break in-between for refreshments, strawberries, and truffles.
Not Just for Her
Gone are the days when brides-to-be only visited the spa with sisters, mothers, and bridesmaids. While a few grooms across the country might maintain that the spas are for ladies only, more guys are getting comfortable with the idea of seeking treatments—at least in the company of their fiancée. In fact, some need very little convincing before they’ll don a robe and slippers.
JoAnn Garner, skincare director at Oasis Day Spa in New York City, notes that busy couples will take a night off from the gym in order to seek wellness at a spa, instead of on the treadmill. “In the case where both the bride and groom work full time jobs, it can be a challenge to find time together to be spontaneous and romantic,” she says “At a spa, they can find a little corner for themselves, cuddle, and have tea together before enjoying their treatments.”
Getting Comfortable
Most men can be convinced that a spa visit can be both good for their soul and their relationship, but choosing the right facility is essential. Since men tend to respond best when the atmosphere is neutrally decorated and softly lit (rather than overly bright and flowery), choose a space that will appeal to his masculine side.
“Look for a spa designed with darker colors, such as blues, greens and grays,” suggests Garner. “Since you’ll probably never see the guy’s locker room, ask the receptionist if it contains razors, shaving cream and other personal items.”
Karen Sprung, director at Red Lane Spa at Royal Plantation in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, suggests that smaller spas are often more comfortable for couples who’ve never been to one together. “It can be overwhelming, especially for first-time guests, to enter a facility with endless rows of treatment rooms and a relaxation area swarmed with people,” she says. “It’s always better to walk away feeling as if you and your fiancé had the spa all to yourselves.”
Once you decide which treatments you’d like to book, it’s important to let the receptionist know about any special requests: whether you’d like a male or female therapist, things you might be allergic to, or if you’d like to swap the oils used during your treatment. “While aromatherapy has gotten to be quite popular, men aren’t fond of heavy scents, and can actually be turned off by certain fragrances,” notes Ellis.
Top Bookings
Traditionally, spa “romance packages” consisted of side-by-side massages and perhaps a glass of champagne, but the newest offerings are far more creative and interactive. Here are just a few of the most popular new treatments for couples:
Massage Lessons Rather than simply enjoying a treatment that day, couples are given an hour of instruction on rubdown techniques to take home and enjoy with one another. After they get a little practice on their partner, the couple receives a professional massage by a pair of spa therapists.
Facials While some men may initially balk at the idea of this side-by-side skin treatment, “Ninety-five percent of the guys who get facials fall asleep within the first five minutes,” laughs Sprung. Since men can have sinus issues, a facial massage can instantly relax them and they wake up “feeling fabulous.”
Bath Time Most couples have little time for anything other than a quick shower each day, so a long, hot bath drawn with essential oils and flower petals can provide ultimate relaxation and good “clean” fun.
Out-of-the-Spa Treatments If your guy doesn’t want to venture inside the spa itself let the spa come to you. Some facilities are now making house calls, and can send their “dream team” to your office to offer massages and other basic treatments. Since spas have a limited “delivery” range, ask a few local spas how far they’ll send a pair of their therapists.
Anything Goes As spas strive to personalize their services, and offer extra value to their clients, they’re often willing to custom-create a package or service just for you. “We have a never-say-no policy,” says Sprung. “We’ll create a fantasy for the bride and groom.” If there’s something that you’d like to change, or add to your treatment, all you need to do is ask.