Pulse June 2017 | Page 65

Makes Scents has created 33 custom products for Omni Bedford Springs. working with a resort spa so close to home would be like working with family,” notes Kreider. “We were honored when Omni Bedford Springs Resort approached us to formulate the custom line for their Springs Eternal Spa. With our own brand of products already incorporated into their seasonal treatment lines, expanding that partnership to create an exclusive line for them was a natural progression.” “Eternal spa has long been celebrated for providing a unique sense of place and utilizing natural spring water...this partnership helped us build upon this point by giving us a signature scent that’s reflective of our setting.” — Michael McDonald McDonald’s desire to create a custom line for Springs Eternal was rooted in the history of both the spa and the property. Omni Bedford Springs is known for its rich history dating back to 1796, when Dr. John Anderson acquired the land for its natural healing resources. “This July we’re celebrating our aluminum anniversary, and are more excited than ever to showcase our successful signature line,” adds McDonald. “Eternal Spa has long been celebrated for providing a unique sense of place and utilizing natural spring water in all of its treatments. This partnership helped us build upon this point by giving us a signature scent that’s reflective of our setting.” The Creative Process As a spa director, sometimes the operations side of the business can take over and your creative juices don’t get to flow. The process of working with Makes Scents to create a product line from scratch gave McDonald the opportunity to dive deep into the creative side of his brain as well as work with his team on a unique and unforgettable experience. “The Springs Eternal Spa team had a very clear idea of what they wanted in a product line, which made our creative process a smooth one from the start,” recalls Kreider. “They wanted the line to feature Cucumber Honeysuckle as their signature scent, and they wanted to incorporate ingredients indigenous to their area. We sourced a few area-specific raw materials and used them in creating their unique custom line.” Makes Scents was constantly testing formulas and products that they thought best combined the spa’s signature scent with local and natural ingredients. “Springs Eternal Spa had samples coming in right and left, and that was what made creating the signature line for our spa so exciting,” recalls McDonald. “We gave Heather and Nathan of Make Scents suggestions on what direction we were thinking, and they were always prepared to deliver products that fit our needs.” The line originally started with a just few products and quickly grew into an entire retail and back bars spa treatment line. Later, it expanded to include a spa suite amenity line for the hotel as well as an Omni Bedford Springs Resort branded line for the hotel retail shop. “We now produce 33 custom products for Omni Bedford Springs,” adds Kreider. “It has been one of our most successful custom lines to date.” Collaborating on a creative venture like this strengthens the bonds on both sides. Makes Scents and Springs Eternal have moved beyond the typical spa-vendor relationship; they have formed a bond that allows for more opportunities for collabo- ration and success—on both sides. “In working so closely during the creative process, we strengthened our relationship with their entire spa management team,” says Kreider. “Knowing they entrust our company with their custom product line means a lot to us. That motivates us to always produce the highest quality products for them and to exceed their expectations for each product on every order.” See? Utter magic. n June 2017 ■ PULSE 63