At this busy time of year, you’re busy buying things for all the people on your gift list. Even though you have good things coming to you too, it is a stressful time and you should take time out for yourself! After all, you’ll need a bit of relaxation and pampering as the holiday season gets into full swing. You don’t have to feel guilty spending money on yourself if you take advantage of some great, discounted spa services. Kick back and relax, take care of yourself and enjoy this time of year to the max, without maxing out your credit card!
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Sign up for great deals
You can take advantage of some great deals at Spafinder Wellness 365. The site will let you know of discount spa services in your area, and you can take advantage of more deals when you sign up for its newsletter. With its network of more than 20,000 spas, salons and fitness centers worldwide, you’re sure to find something perfect.
You can also view offerings at big discount websites like Groupon and LivingSocial. You’ll need to wade through a lot of non-spa offers, but finding a great deal at sites like these is like hitting the jackpot. Just be sure to take advantage of the deals when you buy them, because you can’t get your money back.
Buy a series of treatments
If you pay for a series of treatments upfront, you are likely to get a discount. Be sure to ask your favorite spa about this. By booking a monthly massage or facial treatment for the year, the spa is assured of your business and may be happy to give you a discount. Don’t forget to ask about special deals the spa may be offering for series of treatments, as well.
Make it a party
What a great excuse for a girl’s night out! Many spas will offer group discounts for certain numbers of people. Gather your friends and be sure to take advantage of these lower prices. Remember, many spas offer special drinks or glasses of champagne, so you can really make it a happy hour!
Go back to school
If you just really need a great massage or facial and ambiance is not important to you, then visit a local massage school and let a student get some practice on you. You will pay bottom dollar and still have a nice treatment done. Just be prepared for some mistakes; after all, these are students just learning their trade. This is a great way, however, to get a no-frills massage or facial. It’s a good idea to avoid more advanced treatments like chemical peels or laser treatments at schools, though.
Reward yourself
If you are a regular at a certain spa, be sure to sign up for its rewards program if it offers one. You can get some great perks, like free treatments after buying a certain amount. Since you go there regularly, why not take advantage of all the rewards you have coming to you? Be sure to ask in case your spa keeps these deals under wraps.
Book your appointments off-peak
Many spas offer discounted services or specials during off-peak hours or days. Usually, Mondays are pretty slow days for spas, and early mornings are not very popular for treatments either. Most spas would be happy to book a discounted service during these times than to have empty chairs or massage tables! Be sure to ask and see if your favorite spa offers specials during these times, or try to make a deal. The worst they can say is no.
Sign up for emails and texts
Be sure to sign up for your favorite spa’s emails and texts. This is a great way to find out about little-advertised specials, like last-minute deals or free treatments or lectures. If you’re in the loop, you will never miss out on great offerings that others may not find out about.
It’s great to be a local!
If you live in a major city or top resort destination like New York City, Los Angeles or Miami, it can pay to be a local. Many top spas in these locations offer discounted rates and specials to residents only. All you need to do is show your drivers’ license to take advantage of these great offers.
Be a guinea pig
Many spas and salons offer in-house training to new stylists or estheticians who are learning the ropes. If you sign up for one of these sessions, you may get a deeply discounted or even free service. You may be nervous, but remember that these newbies will be closely supervised and helped along the way. Whoever’s in charge will make sure you end up with a good cut or service! It helps to be patient and respectful, and don’t forget to tip!
Search the Web
Try looking on sites like Craigslist for reduced-price spa services. The best place to search is under Services/Beauty. Just be sure to call and confirm to make sure that the salon is legitimate, and avoid meeting the practitioner at a private residence. In spite of the care you need to take, you can find some really great deals here.
So there you have it – some fantastic ways to save money and splurge on yourself at the same time this holiday season! Consider it a present for yourself, and enjoy.