Many conferences and incentive programs include spa treatments as an activity option for event attendees and guests. Therefore, it’s important for event planners to understand the range of spa treatments offered.
Although spas offer an extensive number of services, event planners will frequently pre-select between three and five choices for guests:
- Massage
- Facial
- Manicure/pedicure
- Spa signature service
- Personal trainer
1. Swedish Massage (suggest 50 minute option)
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The Swedish massage is the most recognizable type of massage, designed to ease tension and stress. The therapist uses a massage oil and gently massages in long strokes.
Many event planners will include this option as one of the spa treatment options for guests. Consider this choice if guests may not frequent spas on a regular basis because they will easily recognize what to expect from this treatment.
2. Hot Stone Massage (suggest 50 or 80 minute option)
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The hot stone massage is an interesting twist to the Swedish massage. Using the techniques of Swedish massage, the therapist will sanitize and heat various sized, smooth stones rather than their own hands. These stones are placed on various places of the back, legs, arms and hands.
Meeting planners should consider this option if they want to offer their guests a unique and memorable spa experience. If time and budget allows, it is also preferable to schedule 80 minute appointments which may also include a hot stone and cold stone combination.
3. Facial (suggest 50 minute option)
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Performed by an esthetician, a facial service basically cleanses and exfoliates the skin through the use of steam, masks and a variety of products. The therapist will also provide facial massage techniques to help relax the facial muscles, and may also provide a head, neck and hand massage.
Facials should be offered to both women and men, and they are popular with guests who may not be as comfortable in a massage environment.
4. Manicure and Pedicure (combine 30 minute manicure and 50 minute pedicure)
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As the name implies, a manicure and pedicure combination is a salon service that event planners may offer to guests.
Manicure options range from 30 to 50 minutes depending on the service selected, but it is reasonable to select the standard 30 minute treatment. This will be followed by the pedicure treatment, which frequently takes 50 minutes.
Some guests just are not comfortable with any form of massage or body treatment, so it is definitely important to offer this as one of the options available to guests. And, quiet as it may be kept, some men are increasing their interest in this activity option.
5. Signature Service (suggest 50 minute option)
Whether it’s a massage, body treatment or facial, many spas will offer services that are unique to the venue and region. And many spas will offer a popular treatment that becomes a signature service. Consider whether the treatment will be appropriate for your group.
6. Personal Training Session (suggest 50 minute option)
There are always a few guests who may be more interested in the fitness center than traditional spa options. In those cases, a personal training session is an excellent option. Personal trainers who work at resorts will have a high level of energy and offer a unique workout experience for their clients. Make sure that the trainers are certified and capable of working with clients in all fitness conditions.