Pulse March/April 2026 | Page 34

SOUND OFF
SOUND OFF GIVES VOICE to the many perspectives that shape our industry. Each issue, we ask ISPA members from different roles, regions and company types the same question— and discover how their responses align, differ and inspire.
“ What’ s something unexpected you’ ve discovered outside the spa world that inspired a new idea or approach in your business?”
NEIKI HOLMES
DAWN JENNINGS
DANIEL SPENCER
AMY LOPEZ
Owner & Master Esthetician
Owner / Operator
Director of Spa
Director of Spa & Wellness
Smooth & Spicy Spa Inc
Sole2Soul Wellness Spa LLC
Agua Caliente, The Spa at
BIGHORN Spa &
TINLEY PARK, ILLINOIS
WESTLAND, MICHIGAN
Séc-he and Sunstone Spa
Wellness Center
PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
“ Outside the spa world, I discovered how deeply people are craving calm in their everyday lives. Watching how stress, burnout and constant overstimulation affect women— especially busy professionals and mothers— inspired me to redesign my spa experience around mental wellness. This led to creating my Calm Over Chaos approach, where every service is intentionally crafted to support emotional
“ Vegan and cruelty free products have been an unexpected discovery for me as the results from such products have proven to be more beneficial to my clients and guests. I have transitioned from traditional lines to vegan / cruelty-free product lines such as FarmHouse Fresh for lotions, creams and skin treatments. Cleaning, maintenance and sanitation products are also a part of my overhaul of the
“ While hiking along desert trails, I pinched a branch of the creosote bush, also known as the chaparral plant. When I rubbed it between my hands and smelled the aroma, it reminded me of the scent that rises when the summer rain first hits the desert floor. This experience inspired the Desert Rain Massage, in which we use the chaparral oil indigenous to our region.”
“ One unexpected source of inspiration has come from intentionally spending more time outdoors— slowing down, being present and reconnecting with nature. Whether it’ s hiking, sitting near water or simply enjoying fresh air, I’ ve noticed how powerful a calm, natural environment is in restoring balance and clarity. That experience has reinforced how important it is to create the same sense
restoration as much as
vegan / cruelty-free approach.
of grounding and ease
physical skin health. It trans-
within the spa— not just
formed my business into a
through treatments, but
sanctuary, not just a skincare
through atmosphere, pacing
studio.”
and mindful moments for
both guests and staff.” n
PULSE n MARCH / APRIL 2026 20