BY JOSH CORMAN

WHEN THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC forced many spas to temporarily close their doors in 2020 , it quickly became clear that technology would be key in keeping staff and guests connected and up to date about everything from reopening dates to heightened sanitation protocols to curbside retail options . Email , social media , video chat software and other online platforms allowed spas to touch guests virtually , even if they couldn ’ t invite them into the spa for an in-person treatment .

Not all virtual experiences are created equal , however . Attending a well-run , user-friendly online event can make interacting virtually a pleasant ( and in some cases , even preferable ) experience . On the other hand , enduring a clunky or needlessly complicated virtual event can sour users on the experience altogether . During the pandemic , many spas have sought to provide as much of the former as possible , hosting events as diverse as fitness and yoga classes , spa parties and facial workshops using the magic of technology . As with so much that has happened during the pandemic , spa leaders have learned a lot about what works , what doesn ’ t and what virtual events in the spa world may look like going forward .

14 PULSE ^■ APRIL 2021