Showering the bride
Spa parties before the wedding day are as hot as releasing butterflies to celebrate the newly-weds, but the big question on the minds of those who are not part of the spa fabulocracy is just ‘what to expect’ and most importantly, ‘what’s the cost?’
Where better to get answers than at that chic spa hideaway called Isabelle’s on Rochester Avenue in Kingston, where things are already in high gear for a bridal spa party. But first things first. we slip into heavy-towelled robes, sip champagne, flip pages of the latest fashion and general interest magazines and stress over the fab spa treatments. All this, of course, prior to allowing spa director Janet Lawe to be our gracious hostess.
So what to do?. Leave the stress behind, turn off the phones and allow Isabelle’s to exceed your expectations.
“Spa parties can be as intimate as eight persons or as inclusive as 30,” shares Lawe. “The bride and her mother or the matron-of-honour usually makes all the necessary preparations for the party – the presents, who gets what, the spa menu, choice of beverages. And yes, the budget.”
Before we discuss details of economics however, there’s a super chic party that’s about to start. The bites are tasty and suitably light, allowing us to tuck in without feeling the least bit guilty. What do we eat? Kiwis, seedless grapes, devilled tomatoes stuffed with red salmon, celery and carrot bites with a heavy mustard dip, shrimp and zucchini kebabs and chicken calalloo pinwheel.
A spa party is really a great way to check out the many options and to try out new treatments. Jennifer Azan, for example, tries the hot stone massage for the very first time.
Use the time at the mani-pedi station to think about eye zone treatment or the power repair (this is a good one for the mother of the bride) which is reputed to help with premature aging, wrinkles and slackening of the skin. There’s also an ampoule chosen specifically for your skin type.
“Most brides enjoy the body polish and of course, the deep-tissue massage or Isabelle’s signature massage,” states Lawe. There’s much laughter as the ladies slide their feet into warm, bubbly water, and hands are prepped for the lavender paraffin wrap.
“Bridal spa parties are the ultimate way to bring your bridal party together before the big day to relax and prepare for what is for many the biggest day of their life,” explains Lawe.
The biggest day indeed (we think), while we watch the pampering and the killer goodie bags – holistic teas from Pevonia! How fabulously chic. The feel-good treatment continues at home.
Spa Party shot on location at Isabelle’s.
Our special thanks to Janet Lawe, her team and the spa party guests.
