April 24, 2017

Meet Eric Derrico of Boston Massage Associates in Back Bay

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Eric Derrico.

Eric, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was a plumber for nearly 4 years when my boss asked me, at 19 years old, if I loved my job. In that moment he helped me realize how important it is to love what you do.

I got into massage school that year but due to a car accident I turned a nine month course in into a two year stint. I feel like this unique situation gave me the opportunity to spend more time honing my skills with amazing teachers who were super supportive.

Right out of school I landed on Boylston Street in Back Bay. I worked for a couple other establishments before I opened my own practice in 2009 when I was also honored with winning Citysearch’s Best of Boston in four different categories.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Since massage school I was told that it would be harder for me to succeed as a male because most people want female therapists. It never stressed me out. I just knew it meant that I would have to focus on making people feel comfortable. I think I do this well simply by being personable, confident and having a hearty sense of humor.

In 2010 and 2011 I had to close the doors to BMA for a few months to deal with a ruptured disk in my lower back. As a new business owner I was terrified but in the end what I gained from that experience was an intimate depth of knowledge on a subject that wreaks havoc on many of my clients.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Boston Massage Associates – what should we know?
Boston Massage Associates is located in a small, intimate setting situated up and away from the loud city noises. I focus on clinical, therapeutic work while attempting to maintain a welcoming, boutique style setting. My technique is a blend of deep tissue and Thai Bodywork resulting in deep but comfortable work utilizing a lot of range of motion. In my 12 years of practicing I have been able to help numerous clients work through a wide variety of different ailments.

What really sets BMA apart from the rest is Bodhi, the shop dog. Two weeks after adopting Bo, 3 years ago, I found out that he is epileptic. Leaving him at home alone was not an option so he has been by my side ever since. As a result he has learned to be a compassionate therapy dog with a calming presence. Bodhi’s nurturing, loving attitude brings ease to anyone he greets.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My mom. She always had massage books around when I was a kid. Moreover she always taught me to trust my intuition and to do what feels right.

My sister. She was a hairdresser before I considered massage. She has always been very encouraging, she showed me that I didn’t need to work a 9-5 to be successful and that work could be fun.

My best friend, David. He found the Craigslist listing for my office space that led me to opening BMA. Coming from the fine dining industry he was instrumental in helping me learn how to run a client experience focused business.

After opening, it has been my loyal client base that has kept me going. Their appreciation for my work is all the motivation I need each morning.

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