room, therapist utilization and productivity metrics is crucial. l The language of leadership: Success in budget discussions requires being on the same page as general managers and owners regarding financial expectations. Presenting industry benchmarks— such as those from ISPA studies— strengthens the business case for spa investments. l Forecasting frequency: While some spas adjust forecasts monthly, others have shifted to biweekly, weekly or even daily forecasts. The key to proactive adjustments is to make sure they are based on real-time data. l AI in financial planning: While not yet common for spa budget forecasting, AI tools loom in the near future with promises of improved data analysis and more efficient guest services, such as personalizing automated treatment recommendations and reducing reservation times.

Peter Tsoflias’ s Navigating the Legal Landscape: Key Challenges for Spa Leaders tackled risk management within the spa setting. In a conversation with Kenneth Ryan, Tsoflias shared a few specific tips with spa leaders in the audience: l Be consistent with documentation: Properly train your employees and periodically review your employee handbooks and codes of conduct— these are critical steps to protecting your spa. l Implement technology with care: Don’ t shy away from innovative and cutting-edge technologies and treatments, but understand the legal requirements and risks before implementing into your spa. l Understand before committing: Read every contract before signing, and understand what should be included in client intake forms, waivers and consent forms. n

ATTENDEES WERE ASKED to complete a short survey following each Education Session. Survey responses help ISPA identify which topics resonated with members and which presentations they found most informative. These insights are useful as ISPA lines up engaging and useful sessions for future Conferences. This year, 10 members were selected randomly to receive $ 50 gift cards in appreciation for completing session surveys: Tawni Bell • Mokara Spa- Omni Louisville Hotel Cristina Cascio Lopez • The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Rancho Mirage Andrea Gorczyca • Excuria Salon and Spa Wendy Huth • Hunters Run Country Club- Spa & Salon Sarah McAbee • The Spa at Barnsley Resort Tyler Moulard • The Spa at The Whitley Amanda Phelan • Spa Oka at Choctaw Casino Heidi Ragan • Soothe Spa Elizabeth Sanchez Escamilla • Rosewood Mayakoba Tyler Smith • Woodhouse Spa- Carme

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