Today we’d like to introduce you to Cindy McCullough.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My background is design and hospitality management, having worked at top hotels and resorts. My first introduction to spas started back in the 80’s as an Operations Manager at a luxury day spa in the Boston area. I really learned a lot from the owners back then and enjoyed being a part of the wellness industry.
I then went back into the design field, which I love, but after seeing so many people stressed out and not finding a true spa environment locally, I then wanted to personally create an oasis for people to relax and escape to. So in October 2004, with the support and encouragement of my business partner, D. Schweppe of Schweppe Lighting Design, 1 on 1 Self Indulgence Spa was born in Concord.
We moved about two years ago to a 1774 house that we purchased, located at 457 Great Road (Route 2A) in Acton. The space has been renovated into a peaceful and beautiful spa and sanctuary, where we combine old world charm with modern technology for body, mind and spirit under one roof. It has truly been a rewarding experience for me to take another raw space, where I am able to combine my creative design talents, hard work ethics, and my natural passion for providing first class customer service and transform it into a place for guests to relax and be pampered.
Has it been a smooth road?
There are always challenges with owning your own business. Our first location we took an old warehouse and fitted it out to be a luxury space. A fun but also a challenging and costly feat, dealing with demo, construction, and bringing everything up to code. I also opened our Spa right before and during one of the worst economies in history. Who could have predicted that would happen! We persevered, worked harder, and continued our efforts to make a difference for our guests.
We made it through those rocky economic years only to have our building sold and then forced to relocate along with over twenty other businesses at the end of 2013 due to redevelopment. So big challenge finding and marketing a whole new place, but hey…things always happen for a reason and we wouldn’t have found this wonderful new home for our Spa in Acton! We were also featured on Chronicle on their “Hidden Jewel” segment, which was exciting, but being hidden may offer some wonderful privacy and peaceful benefits, but awful for visibility. Our new home in Acton is now on Route 2A, so even though we have trees in front, for the first time passerbys can see us.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the 1 on 1 Self Indulgence Spa & Sanctuary story. Tell us more about the business.
I believe what sets 1 on 1 Self Indulgence Spa apart from other spas is my talented team, who like me shares my passion for first class customer service and personal attention to details. Most have been with me for years, so you don’t get different people each time you come in for a spa service, which makes our guests feel at ease and more comfortable coming to our Spa. We are a true spa and listen to our guests and work together with them to help them to reach their own individual and personal wellness goals. We also as a team do local and global mission work, which is another extension of our passion for helping others in need.
We have regulars from across the country and from overseas, who share with us that we offer some of the best facials and body treatments. We customize according to each guest’s skin type and goals. Some facial favorites are the Power Facial, HydraFacial, Oxygen, Luminous C and O-Live Facial. We work together with local dermatologists to assist young teens and adults to achieve healthier skin and the best results.
Our European Soft Dry Float, where you float on warm water without getting wet, is definitely a widely enjoyed treatment table and is great for detox, scalp treatments, body wraps, sore muscles and releasing stress. Our talented team offers soothing and relaxing options for the body as well, including Thai, Sabai, and Hot Stone Massage.
Creating your own personal wellness or group experience is easy and fun. Not only is there something for everyone in our Spa, but there are many wonderful offerings in our Sanctuary to enhance your visit, such as Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal, Cupping, Yoga, Energy Clearing, Meditation and Life Coaching for teens and adults. We have something for the entire family, and offer team building and event planning.
At 1 on 1 Self Indulgence Spa and Sanctuary you are not just another face. We want you to come, feel welcomed and appreciated. It is your time to relax and get pampered. I personally make homemade chocolate chip scones for our guests to enjoy complimentary during or after their treatments. During warmer months, we offer mango sorbet.
We believe in 1 on 1 service, where everyone who comes through our doors will be treated like a VIP.
1 on 1 Self Indulgence Spa and Sanctuary ~ “Once you find us…. you’ll never want to leave!”
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I foresee the skin care and wellness industry to only be on a forward track to growth. Industries and services that address total physical and mental health will be on the rise, as people live longer and the search and desire to feel and look younger becomes a part of their daily routine rather than considered a luxury option like in the past.
I have already seen the changes of people’s mindset from ten years ago to today in being more accepting to choosing and exploring healthier and more natural options. Ancient methods and treatments like acupuncture, Thai massage, meditation, cupping, and yoga have been around for centuries, yet now it has become mainstream. The same with the foods and products they are choosing…more natural and/or organic ingredients. Just take a look at the grocery and produce aisles and the multitude of healthier choices. Nutriceuticals and awareness of how the inside and outside of our bodies need to be more in harmony with each other.
Consumers are becoming more comfortable with combining technology such as LED light therapy for skin health and pain management along with natural choices, realizing that sometimes the need for instant fixes and results may require modern technology and time. The consumer is also becoming more educated on services and products, and the need for professionals at a higher level of education and talent will be required.
Contact Info:
- Address: 457 Great Road, Acton Ma 01720
- Website: http://www.1on1si.com/
- Phone: 978-266-1800
- Email: info@1on1si.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1on1SelfIndulgence/
- Twitter: @1on1spa
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