Domestic Pampering

Apr 21, 2005
Gilroy Dispatch Newspaper
Products like these from Avon make for a relaxing time in a spa.
Over the past several years, the sweet, soothing sensations of the spa have become a popular respite for the weary. Sometimes, after a long day of work and chauffeuring the kids, nothing sounds more relaxing than plopping down in a chair or on a massage table and letting someone pamper you to no end.

On other days, however, the thought of cozying up at home sounds much better: your own robe, familiar surroundings and no need to get in a car and drive home when you'd rather go to sleep.

So, why not mix the best of both worlds?

The in-home spa party is a trend that's gaining popularity, and it's no wonder. Invite some friends to your home, buy some food and set the mood with music and candles. Hire a therapist to give massages, pedicure, manicures and facials, and when you feel like turning in for the night, you're in exactly the right place.

If you're on a tighter budget - or simply want to keep the environment more personal - skip the therapist and have friends take turns pampering each other.

Sound appealing? It does to several clients of Merilyn Strange, a local independent sales representative for Avon, the well-known beauty products company.

Many of Strange's clients, ranging from Salinas to Morgan Hill, throw themselves in-home spa parties on a regular basis, offering friends a chance to get together, catch up and relax in an environment more private and personal than a day spa.

"(In-home spa parties) are quite popular simply because it's fun to be pampered," Strange said. "They're very popular with working women, whether they're working at home as homemakers with their families and children, or if they're working full-time outside the home. It's just a time for everyone to pamper themselves."

A typical party lasts an hour to two hours and can be elaborate as you want, including wine, hors d'oeuvres, ambient lighting and goodie bags for guests. Parties also can have themes or celebrate momentous occasions, such as bridal or baby showers.

Parties also can be limited to just manicures or pedicures, or they can include massages and facials. The most common products Strange said she sells for in-home spa parties include facial mists and masks, detoxifying body washes and ultra-hydrating body lotions.