In November the Belleview Biltmore took over management of The Spa, located on the historic property, and, as with everything this hotel does, quality and personal service became top priority. Spa manager Barbara Swensen and her professionally trained team not only hope to enhance their customers' physical appearance, but to provide their clients with a pleasant and rejuvenating experience. Barbara's enthusiasm for The Spa is contagious, "I love coming to work here," she says, "and I want our guests to love it here as well."
I visited The Spa at the Belleview Biltmore last Wednesday to take before and after photos of those seeking the Spa's many treatments. But hairstylist and make-up artist Joseph Arbach quickly talked me into a much needed summer make-over. Daily exercise, pool chemicals and too much sun had left my hair damaged and uncontrollable, but Joseph assured me that I would be happy with the result.
Joseph Arbach has been a hair designer in New York for 22 years and has traveled extensively in England, Italy, Belgium, France and Japan. "That's why I love being here at the Belleview Biltmore so much," explained Arbach. "This hotel has held on to its past grandeur, but also has a progressive appeal. The impact of so many international visitors adds to that progressive feel."
Before beginning the appointment, Arbach took the time to give me a thorough consultation that considered not the concerns I have about my unruly hair, but also about my lifestyle. I explained that I wanted a low-maintenance hair cut that I would feel comfortable styling at home. Arbach seemed to know exactly what I meant, and added his desire to lighten my color to compliment the brightly colored summer clothes worn at this time of year. Added to this discussion was the fact that I only had two hours for Arbach to achieve miraculous results.
Arbach used two different shades of a vegetable-based color throughout my hair. This Joyco hair product is a more natural, safer treatment and has none of the harsh odors of regular hair colors. This, combined with a protein conditioner applied after the color had been rinsed out, left my hair feeling soft and manageable. The haircut Arbach suggested would allow my hair to dry naturally for a curly low-maintenance look, or to style my hair for more professional occasions.
In just under two hours, Arbach had achieved dramatic results. My new hairstyle felt smart and stylish without feeling contrived. Arbach even added a touch of foundation from a new line of cosmetics they hope to soon provide for sale at The Spa. I was thrilled with my new summer look.
The Spa at the Belleview Biltmore is open seven days a week, Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Prices are comparable to other salons in the area with a haircut, shampoo and blow dry starting at forty dollars. Three licensed estheticians are available with facials beginning at sixty-five dollars, and The Spa's two massage therapists offer massages beginning at forty-five dollars. The Spa's gift shop offers many of the products used in the treatments as well as many great gift ideas. To make an appointment, simply call them at 727-443-6424.
In summarizing the styles of the team of technicians working at The Spa, Arbach explains that "everyone has a look they are trying to achieve. Whether you are a man or a woman, whether your lifestyle calls for a creative, professional or low maintenance look, we can help you get there." For convenience, an enjoyable time spent in a beautiful historic hotel and a great new look visit The Spa at the Belleview Biltmore.