Local Love: Hiatus Spa + Retreat

Hiatus Spa + Retreat‘s first location is in chic Inwood Village of Dallas and has won many awards in the Metroplex. Dallas women know their beauty indulgences, so it bodes well for us that Austin is their second location. On December 18, Hiatus Spa + Retreat had its soft opening in the 5th Street Commons complex. I stopped by after work the following day to introduce myself and for a quick look around.

I was greeted by Brandy, the spa manager, and I told her I was a beauty blogger. She gave me a quick overview of the spa concept and said I should meet the owner. Kristin (pictured below on the right) promptly came out and asked if I had time for a complimentary treatment. Lucky for me, my schedule was clear, and I got to have a massage! Kristin splits her time between Austin and Laguna Beach (she’s from Austin, her husband is from Laguna), and her business partner Sheila (pictured below on the left) is based in Dallas.

Owners of Hiatus Spa + Retreat, Sheila and Kristin

Before my massage, Kristin took me on a quick tour of the space, which at the time was not fully completed. She showed me the nail spa area (set to open this week), which has zero gravity chairs, and they will use Spa Ritual nail products, which I love. Also, they’ll offer Orly’s answer to the shellac manicure, which they dub Eco-Gel. In Dallas, Hiatus was named D Magazine’s Best of Big D 2011 Best Manicure/Pedicure.

After changing into a comfy robe, I stored my belongings into a keyless locker and sat down in the relaxation lounge. Designed by Dick Clark Architecture, Hiatus has a very relaxing ambiance with clean design elements. I sipped on their yummy comforting hot tea while I waited for my treatment.

Relaxation lounge

I’ve had a lot of massages in my day, but I can say that my massage with Chantal was a unique experience. It started genericclomid with a foot scrub/wash, which I later learned is a signature of Hiatus’s treatments. Then I selected which Aveda essential oil would be used during the massage based on how I wanted to feel, relaxed or energized. Definitely relaxed. Also, I was asked what I did and didn’t like about my last massages. The massage itself was very well-choreographed, and I was nice and relaxed after.

After that first experience, I was fairly certain that I’d sign up for the special Founding H-Circle membership. As a member of their H-Circle, you pay a monthly membership fee of either $59 for an annual contract or $69 for a month-to-month contract and in return receive one Essential Service (massage, facial, body glow, body wrap or mani-pedi) per month. To celebrate the grand opening of the Austin location, Hiatus is offering a special Founding H-Circle membership through Valentine’s Day of only $49/month! Can you say deal of the century??

Last weekend, I made an appointment to try one of the facials. Like the massage, my facial with Dixie began with a foot wash and selection of an essential oil for aromatherapy. After sharing with her my skin issues and desires, she tailored my treatment. It was gentle, yet effective, and my skin looked calm and hydrated after. She used Aveda products, and for next time, I’d like to try a facial with Skinceuticals products.

I’m now a proud H-Circle founding member, and you only have one month left to take advantage. I challenge you to find anywhere in town to get any of those services for that price in such a quality setting. Next Tuesday, January 17, Hiatus will have their Grand Opening Party with cocktails, spa experiences and giveaways, open to the public. The flyer below has all the details, so go check it out for yourself. I’ve got my eye on that mani-pedi and body glow with Vichy shower next. See you at Hiatus!

Images: Photos by Ryann Ford, used courtesy of Hiatus Spa + Retreat