Spa Scotta: Behind the Leaf

Peppermint Patty Massage, Anyone?

2011-12-06T14:42:00.000-08:00

Let us warm you up with a 60 minute, full body massage featuring our custom blended warm chocolate oil and a complimentary exfoliating peppermint hand and foot scrub. It's a delicious way to get into a holiday mood. Only $100. Available this holiday season!

Call today to make an appointment. 206-522-5800

2011-11-05T10:13:00.000-07:00

The evening will feature spa services, music, special discounts and giveaways, a fabulous swag bag, cocktails, and light appetizers.

Get a fresh look for fall with Jane Iredale Makeup and get flirty with Suite No.237- Deluxe Lingerie.

Dermalogica, Clarisonic and Revitalash will be offering complimentary demos.
Tickets are $40 and include a "Fall into Beauty" service of your choice and a deluxe swag bag (valued at over $50).
*Spa Service Choices: Youthful Hand Treatment, The Eye Rescue, Petite Massage

Call today to purchase your tickets and schedule your spa service 206-522-5800.

Plume Hair Feathers are Here!

2011-09-15T11:57:00.000-07:00

Spa Scotta now offers Plume Hair Feathers. These hair feathers will last up to one year (you need to have them reapplied as your hair grows out). You can flat iron, curl and wash these feathers without causing any harm. Plume uses an exclusive aluminum crimp bead: coated with silicon-oxide and designed for comfort, durability and effortless concealment. Plume Weightless Crimp Beads are small enough in size that they don’t need a variety of colors to camouflage their location. Another bonus...Plume is a local company located in the Fremont area of Seattle.
We have a gorgeous array of colors from olive green to beautiful neutrals to vibrant reds and pinks. The feathers are $15 each including application. We also have hair tinsel in various colors. Call today to schedule your splash of color! 206-522-5800

Ear Piercing at Spa Scotta

2011-08-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

I love to pierce ears. I was asked by a client awhile ago if we pierced ears at Spa Scotta, which set me on the hunt for the perfect ear piercing system. I chose the Inverness unit for a couple of reasons:

Fully Enclosed Capsules

The fully enclosed earring capsules guarantee the safest ear piercing possible. It guards against contamination prior to piercing. You will not see an exposed post before the piercing for safety and sterility.

Safety Clutch™ Earring Backs

Inverness Safety Clutch™ earring backs allow for the safest healing of an ear piercing. The earring back shields the sharp pointed earring tip and provides proper healing without allowing the earring back to be squeezed too close to the ear. This greatly enhances the healing process by allowing proper air flow.

It's fast and safe. First, the client chooses the earring style they want. Next, I wipe the ear lobes with alcohol and use a surgical pen to mark the spots where the earrings will be placed. We look at the spacing and confirm the position. Finally, I load the device with the sterile earring compartment and pierce the ear. The actual piercing takes a split second.

I have pierced both adults and children and I have to say I love my young ladies. They are so stoic when picking out their earrings, earnest while listening to the aftercare instructions and ecstatic when the piercing is complete. They make my job such a joy, I think I get as excited as they do when they see the final result.

Seattle Best of Bride 2011

2011-07-24T15:48:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our nail team! Spa Scotta was named the best "Spa for Group Manicures and Pedicures" by Seattle Bride Magazine, 2011. We love our bridal parties and the fantastic energy they bring into the spa and are truly honored to be recognized as the best in Seattle. Thank you to all who voted for us!

Mommy Mondays

2011-05-28T16:04:00.000-07:00

Do you need a moment to yourself after a hectic weekend?

Join us at Spa Scotta for Mommy Mondays. Enjoy a relaxing or therapeutic massage, get the 14 day Shellac manicure or freshen your look with a rejuvenating facial. We offer many great services to choose from whether you are looking to relax or beautify.

Remember, Spa Scotta does have a special teen and 'tween menu for our younger clients if you are inclined to spend some spa time together.
As an added incentive, mention "Mommy Mondays" when you book an appointment on any Monday and get 15% off your service (discount not valid with any other offer, discount, coupon or gift certificate).
Convenient drop in day care is available across the hall from us at NC Drop In.
You don't have to be a mom to enjoy this offer, just mention the phrase "Mommy Monday" when you book your appointment to receive the discount.
So do something great for yourself and come see us any Monday! We'll be here to take care of you.

Drop In Day Care Available!

2011-05-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

Spa Scotta has a lot of great neighbors at The Northcut Landing. I wanted to introduce our clients to NC Drop In, a drop in day care service located literally across the hall from Spa Scotta. I asked Ali Lee, the owner of NC Drop In a few questions about the services she provides:

What are your hours?
Monday 9am-4pm, Tuesday through Friday 8am-5pm and by appointment.

How much do you charge per hour?
$5.00 for 2 1/2 years and older, $10 for under 2 1/2 years old.

What are the age parameters?
I usually like to have the infants and younger children in the afternoons when it is quiet for them or late morning after 10:30am. The older kids do well in the mornings. But parents can call and I can evaluate if the child would do well at a certain time.

What is the best way for parents to contact you?
The very best way is by email (ncdropin@gmail.com) then I can answer their questions and call them back.

How much advance notice do you need?
24-48 hours is great. I know though sometimes a sitter may be sick or cancel and a parent will need immediate care which is fine as well.

Is there anything else we should know?
It is important for me to know if they have any allergies especially to peanut butter and they are welcome to bring a snack for their child.

LashDip: The world's most perfect coat of mascara

2011-03-03T16:14:00.000-08:00

LashDip has arrived in Seattle!

Do you want lashes that look like a mascara commercial, lush, full, dark, long lashes? You CAN have them without the fuss of strip lashes, messy glue or flaky mascara!

Lash Extensions with a LashDip deliver show stopping, eye framing, movie star results.

What is LashDip? LashDip is an innovative cosmetic application that is poised to revolutionize the mascara industry. Imagine the freedom! "Dipping" your lashes just once allows you to wake up to and maintain gorgeous lashes for up to six weeks! No hassling with mascara. No makeup remover. No mess. No more raccoon eyes! Just gorgeous, beautifully sculpted, semi-permanent painted lashes when you wake up in the morning, through your exercise routine, and when you go to bed at night.

Recently highlighted on the Today Show, LashDip is truly the wave of the future for eye enhancements. We love them in conjunction with a full set of lash extensions for a beyond beautiful result. People blessed with naturally long, thick lashes can get a similar look with just an application of LashDip.

Raina Green, traveled to Los Angeles in December, to train with the creators of this groundbreaking product and Spa Scotta is excited to be the first day spa in Washington to offer the LashDip experience. Bpok your appointment today and get ready to throw away your mascara forever!

Jin Shin Jyutsu- A Treatment for Insomnia

2011-02-15T23:46:00.000-08:00

Energy work is a vital component to a healthy lifestyle, these modalities balance and harmonize the body, spirit and mind, aiding in healing and quality of life. Jin Shin is one of these energy modalities that focuses on unlocking the "safety energy locks" of the body. By doing so, many people have found great relief from direct body poin such as pain in the back or neck, emotional stress and conditions like insomnia.
Jin Shin is the art of listening to the pulses of the body and harmonizing the life energy in the body. It promotes optimal healing by reducing stress and increasing relaxation. Clients describe the feeling of their ailments melting away during a treatment. There are 26 "safety energy locks" that flow along the energy pathways of the body. The body will block these pathways as a form of protection due to emotional or physical over stress. This causes an imbalance in the body. Jin Shin unblocks these "safety energy locks" by using a life form of acupressure as the practitioners hands become "jumper cables" for the energy flow. A series of "holds" is called a "flow" which the practitioner follows to address certain conditions. Acupuncture follows a similar system using using needles on energy points.
Insomnia is a common and debilitating condition many people suffer from in different degrees, often turning to prescription drugs for treatment. Jin Shin is a great way to beat insomnia. Often, blocked energy, stress, lifestyle and other body conditions cause insomnia and Jin Shin can unblock energy pathways, alleviate stress and promote healing in the body's systems. Many people I have seen for depression will go home and fall asleep after a session. There are also many self techniques I show clients that they can practice at home to further healing.
I have found great success in helping people with insomnia, fatigue, lack of concentration, nervousness, anxiety and deep emotional stress practicing Jin Shin. All of these ailments are strongly effected by the flow of energy in the body and as the energy becomes stagnant, conditions like these occur. Jin Shin is not a cure, but rather promotes healing and helps a person feel a sense of happiness.
Appointments are available with me at Spa Scotta. You should wear comfortable clothing like yoga clothes as you remain dressed during the session. Appointments are scheduled for 75 or 90 minutes($130 or $155). Please let the receptionist know you are scheduling a Jin Shin appointment.

This post was written by our massage therapist, Steve Delissio, LMP, a practitioner of Jin Shin Jyutsu.

Massage after Exercising...It's a smart idea!

2011-01-27T12:04:00.000-08:00

Steve Delissio, licensed massage therapist at Spa Scotta, is our guest blogger today. Steve was most recently written up in Seattle Metropolitan Magazine. Our awesome new neighbors, Pure Barre, got us to thinking about the relationship between massage and exercise.
Without further ado...The Benefits of Massage After Exercising:

Massage is very beneficial after a workout or rigorous exercise because the muscles are warm and malleable and therefore loose and easy to stretch out and work on. With a massage, you can prevent the onset of muscle soreness, increase your flexibility and elongate the muscle, all of which will make your workout more beneficial and increase your results in the future.
Every professional sport team or athlete employs massage therapists because they are aware of how crucial massage is to an athlete's success and health. By improving flexibility, you can increase your sport performance: run and move more quickly, increase your speed and endurance. The muscles will be working more efficiently for you. Massage releases the muscle tension which in turn helps the range of motion of the joints.
Having a massage directly after a workout can prevent muscles soreness and muscle fatigue, as well as prevent injury. Massage improves circulation and blood is the ultimate healer in the body, so increasing circulation and oxygen to muscles will help one recover from a strong workout, especially if any muscles were injured or over stressed. As you exercise or workout, you can build up tiny amounts of scar tissue in muscles, which a massage can break down. Just because you feel fine, doesn't mean your body isn't accumulating stress. Repetitive stress injuries will build up in a muscle or the body in general over months or years and it can be awhile before a person has a severe injury or pain to realize it. Massage is one way to counteract this, it's all about prevention, just like a healthy diet.
A great benefit of massage is eliminating waste, which is useful after a workout. Regular exercise depletes the body of amino acids and other essential nutrients. Massage breaks down lactic acid build up (which causes muscle cramping), increases waste elimination and boosts the immune system to counteract this depletion.
Studies have shown that massage after a workout can decrease the swelling of the muscle and damage to muscle fibers, while showing an increase of white blood cells in muscles making a massage after a workout a smart idea.

Beauty Advent Event Day 23

2010-12-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

The day has arrived....our last Beauty Advent Event day. Today the gift is 10% off the best puffy eye defense ever created...Murad's Moisture Silk Eye Gel.

Soften and smooth around the eyes. This lightweight gel with algae extract, allantoin and caffeine offers maximum hydration as it soothes and depuffs. The cream ribbon gives delicate skin a silky finish.

Available online or in store.

Beauty Advent Event Day 22

2010-12-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

30% off Any Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray

The makeup finish was invented during thousands of hours spent listening to womens’ top complaints about their makeup at cosmetics counters across America. The result was the creation of a near weightless, breathable, over makeup mist that keeps makeup perfectly applied for up to 16 hours. Today there are various forms of the makeup finish that are geared to specific skin types, events, and climates.Why do I need a makeup finish?

Makeup looks great just after it’s applied, and then it immediately starts to crease, clump, slide, get shiny, or dry out. Everything from subtle facial movements to hot sun or dry cold causes makeup to break down throughout the day. The Skindinavia mists greatly slow the process holding a freshly applied look.

Spa Scotta carries the following types of Skindinavia: No More Shine, Original, Bridal and Cool Flash.

Available online or in store.

Beauty Advent Event Day 21

2010-12-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today's featured item is a little different...when you purchase a Jane Iredale Phoenix Sugar&Butter Lip Exfoliator from Spa Scotta, Jane Iredale donates $2.00 to Living Beyond Breast Cancer.

This soft, pink plumper is paired with organic brown sugar exfoliator to evoke the joy and pleasures of femininity, with ingredients that honor women's health.
* Exfoliator and plumper duo restores moisture to dry, chapped lips for a smooth and moist finish
* Packaged in an easy-to-apply dual-ended tube
* Plumper is formulated with peptides to hydrate lips and stimulate collagen systhesis
* The combo of cool mint and ginger revitalizes lips, leaving them with a luscious tint of pink

Available online and in store while supplies last.

Beauty Advent Event Day 20

2010-12-20T07:23:00.000-08:00

20% off DreamTime Body Wraps

The famous DreamTime Body Wrap will embrace you in a warm and healing "herbal hug." The aromatherapy blend will delight and endure for years and its generous size allows it to cover any area in need. The most versatile wrap you will find!

Available online or in store.

Beauty Advent Event Day 18 and 19

2010-12-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

The gift that always fits! A Spa Scotta Gift Certificate.

Purchase any gift certificate for $125 or more and receive a coupon for $25.
If you are looking for some great ideas, check out our gift packages page on our website.

Beauty Advent Event Day 17

2010-12-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

20% off Stretching in the Office Book

From the author of the 3-million copy bestseller Stretching, this book of quick and easy stretching routines for the workplace will help combat the aches and pains of sitting at a desk or keyboard for long hours.

Stretching in the Office works as hard as you do; Jean Anderson’s clear line drawings illustrate each individual stretch as well as full stretching routines; easy-to-follow instructions accompany each stretch. Also included are tips for ergonomics and proper posture at the workstation.

Available online or in store.

Beauty Advent Event Day 16

2010-12-16T07:14:00.000-08:00

25% off any Abra Therapeutics Soak

ABRA Therapeutic Baths start with highly concentrated botanical infusions of organically grown roots, leaves, barks, flowers and therapeutic essential oils to provide the entire spectrum of plant nutrients to your body. ABRA Baths contain only natural, nutrient-rich minerals that soften skin and create an ideal delivery system for dispersing our proprietary botanical infusions. ABRA botanicals do not float to the surface and away from your skin. Instead, bio-available herbal nutrients stay suspended in water to nourish your cells.

Based on the scientific principles of hydrotherapy (water therapy) and hyperthermia (heat therapy) as used in rehabilitation medicine.
Abra Therapy Baths combine Aromatherapy with Herbal Science to help alleviate specific symptoms and discomfort.

Available online or in store.

Beauty Advent Event Day 15

2010-12-15T08:00:00.000-08:00

40% off OPI Rejuvenating Serum and Finishing Butter (any size)

These two products are the dynamic duo of hand care.

The OPI Rejuvenating Serum is an anti-aging hand serum with grape seed and licorice extracts. It begins to erase years of skin damage and is a clinically proven professional treatment that infuses skin with natural lightening ingredients to help reduce the visible signs of aging on the hands. It nourishes skin with vitamins A, C, and E, plus antioxidant grape seed oil.

The OPI Finishing Butter wraps your hands in luxurious hydration. This professional massage and finishing butter envelops skin in a protective layer of silky emollients to combat dryness. The SPF 15 protects skin from the damaging effects of the sun and discourages the return of age spots for more youthful looking hands.

Available online or in store.

Beauty Advent Event Day 14

2010-12-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

The Eco Cup on Ice is an environmentally-friendly alternative to disposable plastic cups. Keep a few of the billions of discarded cups out of the landfill with this 16-ounce double-walled acrylic plastic cup.

Double walled acrylic cup with screw on lid & straw
Double walled cup keeps hands and table dry from condensation.
For cold beverages only.
Do Not Use In Microwave
BPA Free - Holds 16 FL. OZ.

Take 10% off today. Available online or in store.

Beauty Advent Event Day 13

2010-12-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

A lovely and quickly absorbent moisturizer that is exceptionally versatile to boot. Not only can it be used to soothe your skin after a day in the sun, or replenish it after shaving, waxing or laser, it also slows hair growth. All this and it’s made with natural and organic ingredients.

Pomegranate-As juicy as the fruit, this formula contains anti-oxidant rich pomegranate oil to protect and rejuvenate your skin, leaving it soft and ageless.
Lemongrass-Perfect after a workout, this formula contains lemongrass oil that helps to soothe muscle aches, ease stiff joints, and improve muscle tone.
Almond-Give your legs and body their just dessert with this formula, which contains almond oil to provide extra moisture to dry or irritated skin.

Shave Savour is made in the USA with Earth friendly packaging and ingredients. Tested on us, not animals™.

Take 15% off your online or in store order of Whish Shave Savour!

Beauty Advent Event- Day 11 & 12

2010-12-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

Suresh Beauty GlossLUXE.

Lip gloss perfection. This beautiful gloss is sheer and lightweight. The self-healing brush allows for seamless application. Brilliant flecks of finely crushed pearls and gemstones provide luster. Non-sticky, emollient and lip conditioning.

Want to create a signature color? Cocktail two glosses by gently mixing a dab of two colors on the back of your hand then applying to your lips. Here are a couple of our favorite cocktails:

Lani + Teresa = the beautiful pinky peach
Jacci + Teresa = peaches and cream nude (a Suresh favorite)
Lindsay + Jacci = the ultimate gold lip
Saman + Kristina = the perfect bourdeaux
Saman + Kristina + Jenn = the perfect merlot (a Suresh favorite)

We are offering a buy one GlossLUXE, get one half off to get you on your way to cocktailing these amazing lip glosses. Discount available in store only, December 11-12, 2010.

Beauty Advent Event Day Day 10

2010-12-10T00:01:00.000-08:00

The most unique and stylish guidebook for city living.

The ultimate guide to the services and places women crave, our guides include more than 125 female business owners you need to know. They are a celebration of entreprenesses that showcase some of the most creative, interesting and gutsy proprietors throughout the city.

This book is a fun read and has lots of coupons to the great places featured in the guide. It's a great gift for your girlfriends this holiday season.

30% off today only! Online and in store while supplies last.

Beauty Advent Event Day 7

2010-12-07T10:13:00.000-08:00

10% off any OPI Nail Envy Product

OPI's Nail Envy products were developed to strengthen nail nails. It comes in six different formulations to treat anything from sensitive and peeling nails to dry and brittle nails.

In Store today!

Beauty Advent Event Day 6

2010-12-06T09:37:00.000-08:00

Envirosax are today's special offering!

15% off today only..in store or online

Lightweight polyester, portable, waterproof, and weighing just 1.4oz each, these groovy bags are available individually or as a series of 5 contained within a handy pouch. With reinforced seams, each surprisingly large bag can hold a weight the equivalent of two supermarket plastic bags.

Tested for strength & safety

Super strong, holds 44lbs

Fully washable - won't fade

Super convenient & water-resistant

Fashionable & fun - a great gift idea!

Solution to one-use plastic bags

Beauty Advent Event- Day 4 & 5

2010-12-04T11:58:00.000-08:00

Lifefactory 22oz. glass bottles...how do I love you, let me count the ways!

Lifefactory’s BPA-free reusable beverage bottles are clear soda lime glass wrapped in a modern silicone sleeve -- an intelligently designed, clean tasting, chemical-free container for all your favorite beverages.
BPA, phthalate, PVC, and polycarbonate free
Silicone sleeve is free of plastics and 100% non-toxic
Widemouth bottle make it easy to add ice, citrus slices, tea bags, etc
Patent pending silicone sleeve provides a great gripping surface and helps to prevent breakage
Bottle and sleeve can be put in the dishwasher together

Saturday and Sunday Only....10% off these fantastic water bottles. Online or in store.

Beauty Advent Event- Day Three

2010-12-03T06:00:00.000-08:00

The ORIGINAL MoroccanOil Treatment is incredibly easy to use, and produces remarkable and predictable results day after day. Just apply this remarkable and ultra-light formula to damp hair and voila – you instantly get a natural, silky finish and brilliant shine without any residue. This formula not only protects your hair from damage caused by drying or over-processing, it also helps restore over-processed and damaged hair to its natural, beautiful condition.

This is one of our all time favorite beauty products at Spa Scotta and is 10% off today only! Online or in store while supplies last.

Beauty Advent Event- Day Two

2010-12-02T06:00:00.000-08:00

Full, beautiful brows are a right, not a privilege..and easy to achieve with bdb Brow Powder.

bdb Brow Powder is formulated to stay on all day and wash off with gentle soap and water. Simply dab the powder on and glide along your brow line with an angled brush and blend with a spoolie brush. Brow brush sold separately.

Enjoy 10% off any bdb Brow Powder or brush today while supplies last. Online or in store.

Beauty Advent Event- Day One

2010-12-01T14:13:00.000-08:00

10% off today! Regularly $38.00.

"Exfoliate and moisturize without the runny and greasy oils of the typical scrub!"

Pomegranate Sugar Scrub and Almond Sugar Scrub by Three Whishes are made in the USA with Earth friendly packaging and ingredients. Tested on us, not animals™. Available online at http://www.spascotta/ and in store while supplies last.

Extremely dry skin needs an extremely efficient solution and this scrumptious sugar scrub works like a charm. With an amazingly effective trio of exfoliants and a triple dose of moisturizers your dull, dry skin will be polished to nourished perfection in no time. Who knew beautifying could be so yummy?

All Three Whishes products contain Organic Aloe, Organic Raspberry Butter, and Organic Shea Butter, enhancing life’s little desires three at a time. Indulge in pomegranate for its repairing and rejuvenating antioxidants.

Spa Scotta Beauty Advent Event

2010-12-01T14:02:00.000-08:00

Spa Scotta Beauty Advent Event

Hold the stale chocolate Santa! Spa Scotta has something tastier.

Remember the Christmas calendars of our youth? Behind each date on the countdown to Christmas was a piece of questionable candy, well we're updating the tradition with a scrumptious twist!

Each day until December 24th, we will unveil a different, delightful special offer here.

Available online or in store while supplies last.

Every Woman is Beautiful

2010-11-18T12:42:00.000-08:00

One of my employees, Erin Kammers, posted this on her facebook last night and it really hit home with me. I asked her if I could share it and she graciously accepted. Just some thoughts for those of us that are hard on ourselves.

"what kind of a woman lives for drama?

and what kind of a woman slanders her own kind in order to boost her depleted ego.

why do women expect so much respect but refuse to reciprocate it?

in order to gain respect, you must show it.

i've come to realize no matter where i go, or what i do.

whether it be kind or offending, someone will always have something to say about me.

people immediately make assumptions as soon as you catch their eye.

everyone attempts to say they're not judgemental.

for real? come on now.

it happens.

you'll always have your own misconceptions of someone until you meet them.

its really sad to me how people will try to bring you down.

because they're tired of their own lame, unsuccessful lives or upset with themselves.

since you have no hair, you'll run and talk sh#$ about someone elses...

if you've got a tummy, you'll be the first one to say "that girl is fat"?

does that really make you feel better?

yes, we're all guilty of saying mean things about people from time to time.

its human nature, even if its only to yourself, to point out things about another person that you may find unflattering.

but just because YOU think a woman is unattractive...

does in no way mean she is ugly.

she may be the most beautiful and flawless thing in the world to the next person.

if you like skinny girls.

just because the girls a little thick, doesn't mean she’s fat.

She’s just not your type.

or what YOU may find as sexy.

EVERY WOMAN IS BEAUTIFUL.

true story, a lot of us need to hop off our pedestal and reevalute ourselves.

before you jump to say something about another woman.

take a look in the mirror honey.

you're not perfect.

no one in this world is.

stop trying so hard, we've all got flaws.

beauty is in the eye of the beholder, & there’s a beholder out there for all of us.

but on the other side of things.

who really gives a damn who says you're ugly, fat, too skinny, your eyes are too close together, or your hairs not cute.

if a person is going to lower themselves to announce that.

their opinion shouldn't matter to you anyway.

people are going to say anything they want about you.

but you cant let them succeed in bringing you down.

just remember, you're your own worst critic.

but if you think you look good, go ahead girl.

at the end of the day, the only person that matters is you.

you've got to hold onto your pride and realize, they're just haters.

they won't win unless you allow them to.

but you've got to love yourself.

and thats the only way you'll find someone to love you just as much.

being classy and confident, is sexy.

it doesn't matter how you look.

do whats good for you and own it."

Holiday Wrapping Idea

2010-11-13T16:21:00.000-08:00

I found this idea on the Envirosax website while I was shopping for more reusable shopping bags for Spa Scotta. I know the Japanese have perfected the art of wrapping gifts beautifully and this is a riff on that art but what a clever and thoughtful idea for the holidays. Here is a youtube video with a how to on the actual process. Save a tree and stand out during the holiday festivities with Envirosax no-waste wrapping idea!

New Videos of Spa Scotta

2010-10-16T17:24:00.000-07:00

I recently got a Mac and have been playing around with imovie. Check out my first two attempts.

Take a Tour of Spa Scotta

The Fall 2010 Look Book for Spa Scotta

Complimentary Eye Rescue Treatments at the Beauty Bar

2010-09-18T14:48:00.001-07:00

Dermalogica has just released a new eye product, Age Reversal Eye Complex. This product is designed to help reduce wrinkles around the eyes (hence the crow's feet graphic) while bioactives synergistically help allieviate puffiness, minimize dark circles due to hyperpigmentation, and reduce skin sensitivity due to dehydration.
To celebrate the newest addition to the Dermalogica Age Smart line, we are having a celebration of the eyes at our Beauty Bar.
Join us on Saturday, September 25th from 11am until 3pm and enjoy a complimentary Eye Rescue Microzone Treatment from our Dermalogica representative and esthetician, Bonnie Peterson. Spots are limited. To reserve your place, please call the spa at 206-522-5800.

Best of Western Washington 2010

2010-09-03T15:24:00.000-07:00

We are competing for the Best Facial in Western Washington. In past years, we have been in the top 5. I'm really hoping this is our year to win. Click on the banner to vote for us....we really do appreciate every vote!

UV Nail Lights Controversy

2010-08-24T16:00:00.001-07:00

The NY Times recently published an article on a study that stated UV nail lamps used in nail salons caused cancer. The study published by the Archives of Dermatology looked at only two women. I was a bit disturbed by these reports for a couple of reasons. First of all, I was under the impression that the amount of UV output given off from a nail lamp was equivalent to the sun that streams through a window. Second of all, all good scientists know that two incidents of anything isn't enough to prove any theory. I was happy to see a report published by three experts in the nail field, Doug Schoon,, Paul Bryson and Jim McConnell who eloquently refuted the claims made by the early study. This report points out the numerous errors and misstatements made and concludes that nail lights are indeed safe.

If you are concerned about your exposure or that of your clients, apply sunscreen to your clients' hands.

Fake "Gel Manicure" Linked to Nerve Damage

2010-06-30T13:46:00.000-07:00

I have an issue with sensationalist reporting on the news. A client came in to the spa the other day and let one of our technicians know she had seen a report on the news stating Axxium gel lacquer caused nerve damage. This is how false rumors spread.

I immediately wanted to know about this report as we use both OPI Axxium and CND Shellac in the spa. I did a quick search on the internet and found the original report by Consumer Reports. A woman named Jane Ubell-Meyer received what she thought was a "gel manicure" at a local salon where a drill being used on her slipped and damaged her finger, the damaged finger was then dipped into an unknown white chemical powder leaving Ubell-Meyer suffering from pain for months. After visiting many doctors including an orthopedist, dermatologist and chiropractor, a neurologist was able to discover the culprit...a fake gel manicure gone wrong.

A gel lacquer manicure does not include mixing any powders, glues or other chemicals. The gel lacquer is brushed onto the nail and is odorless. The natural nail does not need to be roughed up with a hand held drill or filed like a traditional acrylic service. If you have any questions about the service you are receiving, ask the service provider. If the surroundings are less than sanitary or you have concerns...don't get the service.

Do you ever get white bumps under your eyes?

2010-06-24T15:31:00.000-07:00

Tamara Zagurski, Esthetician at Spa Scotta, is guest blogging today:

If you're plagued by small white bumps under your eyes that look like whiteheads, chances are they are actually milia. Milia have a thin layer of skin that grows over them, making them hard like a cyst and difficult to remove unlike a whitehead that would rupture and go away. They result when the skin is unable to naturally exfoliate itself, trapping dead skin. Milia are usually the result of using skin care products around the eye area that are too rich for the thinner skin and tinier pores.

This is why there are treatments formulated specifically for the eye area. Not removing your eye makeup is another culprit in causing milia. Many makeups are laden with oil and pore-clogging ingredients and leaving them on when you sleep allows for oil and bacteria to get trapped in the pores.

What can you do about milia? Come to Spa Scotta where we offer an extensive selection of professional eye makeup removers from Murad, Dermalogica, and Pevonia. Also, we offer non-clogging and bacterial resistant makeup from Colorescience and Jane Iredale. The best way to rid existing milia? Have them professionally extracted by our talented estheticians. Remember, it's easier to prevent milia than to get rid of them, so invest in good eye care products.

Minx Nails are at Spa Scotta

2010-06-15T20:10:00.000-07:00

What is Minx?

Minx is a solid film with an adhesive back that is heat activated. The heated film is applied to your nail bed and sealed with a UV top coat. You can expect your Minx to last around two weeks.

We have a large assortment of the Minx at Spa Scotta and we can place a special order for any design we don't have.

Minx nails are a fun addition to your manicure.

It Only Took Me 12 Years

2010-04-24T08:49:00.000-07:00

I have arrived. Those of you who know me, know that I have wanted to be recognized in Allure magazine as a top waxer since I started in this industry in 1998. Year after year, my hide would get chapped that my massive waxing skillz were not noticed by Allure. My hide can now relax...I was named one of the best waxers in the country, and the best in Seattle. I want to thank my clients, fans and advocates who have supported me throughout my twelve years in this industry. I would like to thank Zoe for making me learn how to wax a brazilian back in 1999 and then was brave enough to suffer through my learning phase. To all my early clients, thank you for having faith in me, let's face it, my enthusiasm far outpaced my ability. To my staff, you are such an inspiration and support to me, thank you for being part of my team. And finally, thanks Allure magazine, you just gave me the best 40th birthday present ever.

What's New at Spa Scotta

2010-02-24T14:09:00.001-08:00

Introducing Spa Scotta's Newest Facial Treatment...
The PowerZone Peel & Penetrate

This facial was created for our new menu by Spa Scotta esthetician, Tamara Zagurski. I asked Tamara to answer a few questions about this dynamic new facial:

How did you come up with the PowerZone Peel & Penetrate Facial?

I came up with this facial as a way of utilizing all of our ultrasonic modalities in one treatment. Clients can now receive a high tech, high result facial in 30 minutes.

What makes this facial so impressive?

It's impressive because of everything it accomplishes in a short amount of time! The face is thoroughly deep cleaned with the help of the Clarisonic. Dead skin and oil stuck in the pores will be softened and expelled more easily with the ultrasonic waves and negative ions of the bt-micro™. Serums will penetrate and be absorbed by the skin immediately with the bt-micro's positive ions. Lastly, the eye area gets results like it never has before with Clarisonic's newest invention, the Opal™. The Opal penetrates the Anti-Aging Sea Serum using sonic infusion technology and has soft silicone tip designed for the thin, delicate skin around the eye. People with puffy eyes or under eye bags will especially notice instantly firmer skin!

What kind of client would you recommend this facial to?
I would recommend this facial to anyone that likes instant results, has time constraints, or just wants the skin care part of a facial- not massage. Yes, there are those of you out there!

What kind of results can a client expect to see?
The results of this facial are not only visual but also tactile. The skin will appear fresh, firm and more radiant, while feeling extremely soft, smooth and hydrated.

How often do you recommend a client have this facial?
This services is a deep clean treatment and I recommend it be done every six weeks for maximum benefits.

See below for a special offer from Tamara.

The Clarisonic Opal™ Sonic Infusion System with Anti-Aging Sea Serum is here!
You've seen the benefits of Clarisonic's sonic cleansing - softer, smoother skin - now experience the immediately noticeable benefits of sonic infusion. The Clarisonic Opal Sonic Infusion System combines a new sonic infusion technology with an Anti-Aging Sea Serum for results as beautiful as they are dramatic.
Opal's soothing sonic action gently infuses the serum into the epidermis to help refresh and renew the appearance of delicate skin around your eye area. In just one minute a day, study participants report an immediately noticeable reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, and firmer, more hydrated skin.

Stop by the Spa Scotta Beauty Bar™and try the Clarisonic Opal for yourself. Our staff gives it a solid two thumbs up for efficacy and ease of use.

Boost skin health with Dermalogica's trio of travel-sized Boosters, a gift with purchase valued at $47!.

Boosters mix with your favorite products to amp up hydrating, firming, or exfoliating power.

Travel-sized gift includes:Skin Hydrating BoosterExtra Firming BoosterSkin Renewal BoosterCome in today for your free gift with a $75 Dermalogica purchase , while supplies last.

$15 off a PowerZone Peel & Penetrate Facial with Tamara.
A half hour of pure power. Your facial begins with a Clarisonic cleansing followed by an ultrasonic peel, extractions utilizing microcurrent technology followed by a customized serum penetrating treatment. Your eyes are given special attention with the use of the Opal, Clarisonic's newest innovation combining sonic infusion technology with an Anti-Aging Sea Serum. Your skin in instantly transformed.
Offer expires March 31, 2010

I've seen my future

2009-09-22T15:55:00.001-07:00

and it's covered in sequins. Erin, Raina, Kelley and I had our first day of kindergarten...Kindergarten of Burlesque that is. Burlesque, where have you been all my life? Remember how I said pole dancing combined my favorite things in this world...trampy shoes and great music? Well, add glitter, sequins, costumes, makeup, hairdos, wigs, boas, tiaras....I had to fan myself for a moment. Ok, I've collected myself, burlesque is all of that and more. Trixie Lane adopted us last night. The girls were looking at me as I almost overdosed on happiness. Stay tuned for updates on our costumes and burly names...we have a recital in October too!

Hey Bright Eyes!

2009-09-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

You are invited to attend our Bright Eyes Event at the Spa Scotta Beauty Bar™.

Join us on Saturday, September 26th from 10:30am until 3:00 pm for a complimentary eye opening treat. Helene Lawless from Pevonia will be at the Beauty Bar using Pevonia's effective eye treatments in conjunction with the Biotherapeutic Micro machine to lift and plump the eye contour. Katie Pfister will provide eyebrow makeovers with our favorite eyebrow line, Billion Dollar Brows.

This is a complimentary event but we are booking appointments, so call today to schedule your time. 206-522-5800. See you then!

Skindinavia at Spa Scotta

2009-09-16T14:26:00.001-07:00

Skindinavia Cool Flash, I love you.

My brother got married in Tennessee recently and I brought my Cool Flash with me. Although I grew up in the South, my skin has long since acclimated to the Pacific NW and does not like hot, humid weather anymore. I also do not enjoy looking like a sweaty raccoon.

Cool Flash is an amazing product by Skindinavia which works to prevent meltdown and caking for hours on foundation, eye shadow, blush, and concealer. Its unique encapsulated cooling technology chills the makeup surface 20°F, like an air conditioner, keeping a fresh look in the warmest temperatures, and it works with all types of makeup.

We started carrying several of the Skindinavia products (Bridal Makeup Finish, Makeup Finishing Spray, and No More Shine Finish) and using them on ourselves and others at our events. It really works...not shine, no raccoon eyes and no makeup creasing. Try it ya'll, you won't be disappointed.

August in Review

2009-09-12T11:18:00.000-07:00

Spa Scotta was in hyperdrive the entire month of August, hence the lack of blog posts.

So here's the month in review:

We started the month participating in a Comcast Event called "Cablepalooza". We had our makeup team doing party makeup for the guests as well as Jennifer and Michael Sturgeon creating henna art for party goers. I also scared a drag queen. Busy night.

Tamara and Riley got married. More pics here. That was a joyous wedding and Spa Scotta burned up the dance floor (in other words, a typical wedding for the crew.)

I went to Cash Flow Camp by Inspiring Champions. It was three days of inspiration and perspiration (numbers make me nervous). I highly recommend this seminar to any and all salon/spa owners. The information I learned has been life changing.

I'm in the pictures with Lauren Gartland ( Founder/President/CEO Inspiring Champions) and Jill Ruone (my business coach). Do I look a little frantic? I was.

Tamara and I went to Bio-Therapeutic to explore the newest in skin care technology. We had fantastic facials with Blanca Gutierrez, the spa manager of Bio-Therapeutic Skin Spa. She demonstrated the latest tools developed by Bio-Therapeutic. We came away with new ideas for our treatments.

Spa Scotta rocked the makeup at Product Runway. Raina was in charge of this event for Spa Scotta and she really hit it out of the ballpark. Our makeup team (Raina, Ali, Alex and Tamara) produced gorgeous runway makeup. Raina did the advanced prep work to keep us organized and the event was a huge success. I was so proud at the end of the evening, I could barely stand it. Tons of pictures here, thanks to Laura Totten of Totten Photography.

Jenny Anderson and I attended the Gene Juarez Academy Student Portfolio Show on August 31st, bringing our busy month to a close. I was impressed by the quality of the student's work and by their passion for continuing their education...my kind of people.

And that concludes August. I need a nap.

Jenny and I

Coffee Chat

2009-09-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

Do you crave more opportunities to network with each other as well as spend more time with our entrepreness intelligentsia? After all, we are a community of intuitive, resourceful, passionate, business-savvy, adventuresome mavens! We will be hosting intimate, informal discussions on the third Sunday of every month from 2–4pm. These chats will take place at a different coffee shop or casual venue each month, and will be initially focused on our monthly business topic; however we will boldly go wherever the conversation takes us!

Upcoming Coffee Chat: Back to School: Social MediaAbout this Chat:· You already have a Facebook page, Twitter account and a blog… now what?· Shed away lazy summer days and get back into the business of maintaining your social media efforts.· Shake things up, maximize your tweeting, Facebook and blog outreach, and learn new tricks from the experts.· Learn new ways to create an efficient social media strategy that will help balance your schedule.

SEATTLESpeakers: Jessica Campbell (Spa Scotta) and Molly Hoyne (Stratejoy)Topic: Back to School: Social MediaWhen: Sunday September 13th, 2pm-4pmWhere: 5focus Studio, 1009 8th Ave N, SeattlePrice: $25 per person

Click here to register.

Tubing the 'Natchee 2009

2009-08-13T16:52:00.000-07:00

This year for our summer staff event, we went tubing on the Wenatchee River. I don't have all the photos yet because I had to use a disposable on the river and I'm too busy to go to Bartell's and get it developed (in other words, I haven't found someone to do it for me). We got off to a slightly rough start (s.o.p. with Spa Scotta). Judy got lost, Siobhan's battery died, Shanti forgot her aqua socks and I almost fell out of the shuttle van window. Despite these little setbacks, we had a blast. I want to know why everyone isn't tubing every single day of their life. That was the most relaxing day I have had in a long time, not to mention the company was excellent.

Last year, we celebrated the end of Summer with a picnic at Gas Works Park, an event that is affectionately referred to "Bum-a-palooza 2008". We were surrounded by a rag tag group of obviously drunk urban campers with overly hostile dogs. The guys were pretty friendly though.

My only complaint about this year's trip is the apparent love of porta potties by the businesses on Highway 2. Build a ladies room for the love of god. Not everyone has the constitution of steel needed to enter one of these cesspits of hell.

Tots and I Got Minxed!

2009-08-13T16:29:00.000-07:00

Tots aka Kenyatta and I went and got our nails done today by Jessica Hoel at Salon Bella in Bellevue. We wanted to check out the Minx nails and see what they were all about. We had a great time with Jessica. I love meeting people who are as passionate about what they do as I am, not to mention experiencing something completely new like the Minx. I am interested to see how long they last. Jessica told us to expect anything from a couple of days to a couple of weeks.

I Scared a Drag Queen.

2009-08-07T15:27:00.000-07:00

I love drag queens. Why? Makeup. Costume. Shoes. Attitude.

Spa Scotta attended the 2009 Comcast Cablepalooza event last night. Cable people know how to party. Special Guest? Bebe Zahara Benet. Oh sister girlfriend, you know I was ready to flip my wig. Bebe won Rupaul's Drag Race. Me being me, I had to get a photo and gush for a minute with my girl, Bebe. In a fit of overenthusiasm, I blurted, "I'm going to stalk you all night." The look Ms. Bebe gave me can only be described as horror-struck. I quickly amended, "But only for tonight", hoping this would allay her fears but no go. During her "number" she studiously avoided me and Raina, purposefully moving around us to dance with other members of the audience. Seriously? I'm 5'3, honey. I was wearing flip flops. You could have outrun me.

I really didn't think you could scare a drag queen but I guess I was wrong.

Drag Queens=0 Jessica=1

Back to School Clean Teen Skin Events

2009-08-04T16:19:00.000-07:00

Get your skin Back to School beautiful at Spa Scotta's Clean Teen Events, hosted on Sunday August 16th and Saturday August 22nd. These events focus on teens and preteens and the unique skin issues they face during this time of their lives. This is a fun and informational experience where they learn good skin care techniques, dispel skin myths and ask the questions they have about their skin.
We are inviting your teen to spend 30 minutes at the Spa Scotta Beauty Bar™ experiencing dermalogica’s latest skin products…Clean Start. Participants will get a chance to try the products at the Beauty Bar while we share tips about good skin habits.
These events will run from 12pm until 3pm. These event are complimentary but you do need to RSVP to secure one of the limited spots. Please contact us at 206-522-5800 to reserve a space.

Happy Friendship Day Peeps!

2009-08-02T08:37:00.000-07:00

This is one of my recent fav pics of some of the staff, the cheezy factor is level orange. I love the glamour shot flavor of this photo. Anywhoo, it's Friendship Day. I found this out on Twitter.

Am I the only one slightly mystified by Twitter?

We have been having "social media" meetings for the last couple weeks. My website designer/guru Marc Rapaport thinks Twitter is a fad, my social media director thinks it is a powerful communication tool, I don't have a horse in the race at this point but I'm still going to the track. I am interested to see what Twitter becomes or begets as time goes on and I certainly don't want to be left behind when the technology train leaves the station so I am Twittering and Blogging and Facebooking and Flickring and.......

Somebody's Not Telling the Truth

2009-07-30T09:04:00.000-07:00

I have a 24 item to do list for Spa Scotta. I honestly don't know whether to be proud or paralyzed. Jenny said making a list would make me feel better but I think she may be mistaken...seriously mistaken. In the spirit of full disclosure, I am not the only one responsible for the completion of the 24 items. Jenny is helping, Erin has taken some of the items and I have randomly assigned some of the work to complete strangers (wait until they figure out they have deadlines). But seriously, we all know that the 24 item list is nebulous. Like a hutch of bunnies, it's going to multiply. Unlike a hutch of bunnies, I don't think it's cute.

Vinegar Bottle Vigilante

2009-07-28T15:20:00.000-07:00

When Bezoar was a puppy, she went to doggy day care. (Those were the salad days when I thought nothing of dropping money on babysitting services for my dog.) Bezoar is a special dog in a lot of ways and we explained some of her earlier behaviors by pointing to the fact that we got her when she was six weeks old. She never learned "the way of the dog" from her mom and therefore didn't pick up on other dog's cues to modify her behavior. The alternate theory, and the one I currently subscribe to, is that she saw the cues and actively chose to ignore them.

Bezoar's doggy day care leader used a squirt bottle filled with diluted vinegar in water to discipline the dogs. A quick shot usually did the trick, breaking up doggy squabbles, getting errant canines off the furniture, shutting up super-yappers. On countless days, I would pick up a damp, vinegary, and decidedly unrepentant Bezoar from day care. (Turns out she likes vinegar but that's another story.)

I want a vinegar bottle. I encounter a lot of people who have earned a quick squirt of liquid "knock it off". For example, the gentleman snoring next to me while I waited for a friend in the doctor's office. Or the two nearly catatonic sales people at the Northgate Macy's who demonstrated an almost epic lack of customer service. Squirt, squirt. I may mount a vinegar bottle to the front of my car so I can squirt the jerks who don't let people merge onto 520 off of Montlake. I do not, however, want Jenny, my office mate and right hand lady, to get her hands on a bottle. I'm afraid I may end up damp, vinegary and unrepentant.

Do you know anyone who needs a quick squirt of vinegar justice?

The Team That Celebrates Together

2009-07-14T16:27:00.000-07:00

We threw Tamara a bridal shower on Saturday. Once again, I was reminded how lucky I am to have the staff I do. We are a group of people who genuinely enjoy each other's company...not bad for being together for so long. I haven't laughed so hard for so long in awhile. I love the fact that we are all so different but share a common vision. Thank you team for being who you are individually and as a group. You make me realize how truly blessed I am every day.

Living the Dream

2009-07-09T22:29:00.000-07:00

I was talking to my friend, Jennifer Worick, the other day and we were discussing life, as per usual. I can't remember exactly how we stumbled on this particular conversation but it was something like, " What would your life look like if your art/passion/craft/dream sustained your life?" We started to banter back and forth about what we would do if we had more money/time/energy/whatever and it suddenly hit me...THIS is what living the dream looks like. I am living the dream. I am doing exactly what I want to be doing, with exactly the people I want to be doing it with.
It's not always pretty, it's rarely very neat and tidy and linear, it exasperates me, it envigorates me, it leaves me crawling home sometimes on the verge of tears and despair, it makes me giddy with promise and opportunity. This is a hell of a ride, my hairs a mess and I think I have bugs in my teeth but as my dad used to say, that's how you can tell who's a happy rider.

Axxium Gel Lacquer...I still love it.

2009-05-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

Why isn’t everyone wearing the new OPI Axxium Gel Lacquer? I am well known around the spa for my enthusiasm for new services and beauty products and I sometimes have to eat a little crow when my zeal for something exceeds it’s ability to deliver in reality… will I ever live down the Epilady episode (what sadist came up with that useless piece of torture)?

Initially, I was crazy for the idea of Axxium Gel Lacquer. It purports to stay shiny and chip free for up to two weeks. I have never been able to wear polish on my fingernails for more than a day before it looked more ragged than a sorority girl after rush week so Axxium was promising a whole new world to me. A small part of me wondered how the dream was going to end. I was a little nervous that I would have to mea culpa once again if the product failed to live up to the hype.

Let me just say, Axxium delivers…period…end of story. I have worn it while performing countless pedicures, up to my knuckles in acetone and the lacquer stayed shiny and perfect. I’ve typed, done laundry, performed spa services and washed my hands for 10+ hours a day and still the Axxium looked fabulous. I made it to eleven days before the Axxium chipped…a personal world record.

So what is Axxium gel lacquer and how does the service differ from a traditional manicure? The nails are shaped and the cuticles are pushed back using a nail file. The surface of the nail is prepped and then the first base coat of gel is applied. You slip your hands under a special UV light that cures the gel for a minute and then the colored gel lacquer is applied and cured. The final step is the UV cured topcoat. The entire service takes about an hour. You don’t apply lotion or any other oily products during the service because it’s important for your nail to stay dry and be slightly dehydrated. Once the top coat has been cured, you can use any lotion or oil you like.

The last bit of awesomeness that is Axxium? Your gel nail lacquer is completely dry at the end of the service, no more ruined nails when you grab your car keys and jet.

Chin Hair=Face Ninja

2009-05-13T22:32:00.000-07:00

I’ve got my eye on you, you sly bastard. You aren’t there today crazy hair…I checked, but tomorrow? There you are, three inches long, coarse and waving coyly from my chin.

You are the ninja of unwanted facial hair. Like Inspector Clouseau and Kato’s game of hide and go seek, I’m constantly on the look out for you, I know you’re hiding and it’s only a matter of time before you jump out at me, fully grown and completely unwelcome.

Usually, I find you while driving. You’re sooo lucky I don’t travel with tweezers (never give an esthetician tweezers in the car).

I had a client that once told me, “Jessica, when the eyesight starts going, the hair starts growing.”

That’s just great…I don’t have stellar eyesight as it is…now I can look forward to a goatee and bifocals. Awesome.

Moving is Fun.

2009-05-13T22:27:00.000-07:00

Q. Is moving one of the seven circles of hell?

A. yes

We are selling our duplex in West Seattle. My sister, brother-in-law and I have been living in this little slice of heaven for 7 years. I have the upstairs unit and they have the downstairs one. This living arrangement has worked beautifully for us and part of me is a little sad about the upcoming change. The other part is really excited to have a separate room for all my crafts and jewelry making stuff not to mention a garage.

As part of the moving ritual, we cleaned out the basement last weekend. To sum up the experience, we (and by we, I mean my sweet bro-in-law) took 1200 lbs of crap to the dump. Guess what that didn’t include? About 60 cans of paint. Seriously. Who has this much paint in their house? I mean beside us apparently. It was a veritable timeline of color. I am curious as to which tenant thought royal blue was a suitable color for the interior walls of our house and why said tenant needed 6 cans of it. The peach could only be from the 80’s…which decade claims the weird greens and purples is a mystery.

The best part of cleaning out the basement was finding my first diary. This powder blue gem contains my earliest recorded feelings and impressions. Bottom line…I really liked writing about two things: cursing and rating the boys in my third grade class. I don’t remember having such a sailor- like grasp on cursing but boy, oh boy, did I ever let loose in that diary. Things have changed over the years, I’ve stopped writing in diaries, there aren’t any boys to rate at work but I still savor a good curse. I just don’t feel the need to write them out anymore.

Decisions

2009-05-09T18:31:00.000-07:00

The “economy” has our collective knickers in a twist these days. I was recently talking to my best Vegas buddy (and Aunt) Mary Sue about financial decisions we had made in the past months and we started in on the usual should haves, would haves, could haves that inevitably come up in these conversations. It suddenly hit me with perfect clarity (an Aha! Moment if you will), that I had made the best decisions I could at the time with the best information I had at the time and regrets were simply misplaced. If I had a Magic 8 ball, maybe I would have made different decisions but alas, I don’t and I didn’t. I’m not saying that I don’t learn from past decisions or that future plans aren’t influenced by the results of past events but I try to avoid beating myself up when things don’t go according to my plans. If I whipped my own ass every time I made a decision that went astray, I’d be more worked over than Mickey Rourke. That can’t be a good look for me.

Join Team Spa Scotta in the Race for the Cure

2009-04-07T13:02:00.000-07:00

Join Team Spa Scotta on June 7, 2009 at the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. We would love for our clients, friends and family to walk/run with us and support this worthy cause.
We have set a goal to raise $15000 or the equivalent of 100 mammograms. You can help us reach this goal by making a donation here.
Spa Scotta will host a kick off party on May 28th from 5:30pm-8pm. We will be raffling off great prizes to raise money for our goal.
75% of the donation funds brought in via the Race for the Cure remains in the local community to fund educational outreach, screening and treatment programs for underserved women and men. The remaining net income, the remaining 25% supports the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Grants Program, which funds groundbreaking breast cancer research, meritorious awards and educational and scientific programs around the world.
RSVP for our kick off party at info@spascotta.com. Be sure to include the number of people in your party.

Lady and a Tramp

2009-03-27T14:25:00.000-07:00

About a year ago, I fell in love with pole dancing. I started taking classes with Angi Cardwell, owner of Divine Movement, one of the most encouraging teachers imaginable. (that's her in the photo) As a dancer, my skillz were not going to pay the bills but the combination of dim lights, awesome tunes and my personal weakness, slutty shoes, wove a seductive web around me.

Have you ever seen those blooper clips on YouTube where rotund girls pull the poles out of the ceiling or end up spinning into the wall? Well, that's God's way of giving you the heads up that pole dancing may not be for you.

I found out I have arthritis in my dancin' arm and sometime last year, I tore my rotator cuff....exit pole dancing.

Enter my current obsession...makeup. A friend of mine opined that I need an outlet for my inner tramp and with pole dancing currently off the menu, it makes perfect sense I would channel my energy into makeup.

I was previously in a makeup rut...same colors everyday, no experimentation, no deviation. I didn't think I could wear certain colors, I didn't try new techniques. I recently took a Master Bridal Makeup Class with Victor Cembellin, Senior Pro MAC Makeup Artist-Northwest. (So adorable! He's cute too.) Victor believes makeup should be viewed as a celebration of one's inner beauty. That sentiment is as inspiring as mastering the black widow spin. Makeup shouldn't intimidate you. If you try something new and it doesn't look good, wipe it off. Experiment. Play. Follow your inner muse. I'm having fun following my personal muse: a tramp in six inch heels.

The "Brounding Effect"

2009-03-03T22:36:00.000-08:00

Lately, I've been getting browner and rounder. I think it's in direct correlation to stress...a phenomenon I like to call the "brounding effect".
My skin care consultants eye my golden brown skin, purse their lips and ask accusingly,"Are you tanning?" Yes, yes I am. I'm not proud of this, I know the damage I'm doing and frankly, it's a bit hypocritical as I am an esthetician. My sister chastises me, " At your age, you should be dropping vices, not getting new ones." Too true, but the tanning bed is my personal isolation chamber and unlike William Hurt in Altered States, I emerge toasty warm and at peace with the world.
The rounding aspect of the "brounding effect" is less appealing to me. I swear to God, I could get stranded on an island and gain weight, kind of like Hugo on Lost. In my case, I think the rounding occurs while I lay prone on my couch, watching endless hours of Law and Order (damn you TNT and your mini-marathons). To paint the complete picture, I am also wrapped in a Snuggie...which may or may not constitute one of the seven signs of the apocalypse.
I haven't found the antidote to the "brounding effect" (and honestly, I haven't been looking too hard) but I suspect it involves spray tan and a stairmaster.
I'll let you know how that works out.

Spa Scotta Bridal Soiree

2009-02-28T12:03:00.000-08:00

Spa Scotta held a Bridal Soiree on Sunday, February 22nd, and it was a great success. We partnered up with vendors we love, recommend to others and have personally used for our own events.

Brown's Catering provided delicious appetizers. The food is always first rate from Brown's Catering , that's a given, but the fact that they always leave my place looking cleaner than when they arrived is fantastic. The team that Chef Anthony Brown has created is a joy to work with before and during an event. We have recommended this caterer to many, many people and have never had anything but glowing reviews. Four stars all the way.

Bamboo Beats provided the background music for our event. When I win the lottery, I am going to have DJ Tecumseh follow me around to provide my personal theme music. Jojo, Bamboo Beats' event coordinator, is a dream to work with, very personable and really invested in making sure we got the vibe we were looking for at the party.

Moms, Maids and More provided the bridesmaids' gowns for the evening. I've known Erin Green, owner of this gorgeous store, for many years and she continues to amaze me. She is an incredibly gracious and graceful lady and I always steer brides to her store to check out the incredible selection of Mother of the Bride, Bridesmaids, Flowergirl dresses along with shoes and accessories.

Linda Cummings, owner of Flowers!, provided all the floral arrangements for the party. Linda's wonderful arrangements offered splashes of color throughout the spa.

Laura Totten of Totten Photography documented the entire evening. Laura is another person I've known for years and have long admired her ability to truly capture the moment on film. She has a wonderful spirit and an incredible talent.

Sandra Watson of sewbride and Go2Girl Event Planning & Design displayed her original ringbearer pillows. It's the little details that make your special day unique and sewbride offers many creative options. Sandra also custom designs other fabric items for your wedding like ceremony kneeling pillows.

Spa Scotta is designed to host parties and we especially love our bridal parties. We provided mini spa services including polish changes, mini massages and brow waxing during the Bridal Soiree. It gave us a chance to meet with the brides and their friends, moms, fiances and get to know them. We had a blast!

Raina Green, one of Spa Scotta's resident makeup artists, worked some magic on the lovely Bridal Soiree attendees. Raina was responsible for all our models' makeup and showcased her skills during the event.

Spa Scotta would also like to thank Seattle Bride Magazine and Seattle Bride & Groom Magazine for providing issues for our goodie bags

Sleep Vs. Me

2009-02-26T12:08:00.001-08:00

Sleep and I have never been on the best of terms. As a child, I was in and out of bed like bunny hopped up on goofballs. Why my parents didn't invest in a tranquilizer gun is beyond me... come to think about it, the omnipresent bottle of Benadryl of my childhood memories makes sense in hindsight.

As an adult, sleep and I have continued our game of cat and mouse. I resigned myself to sleep as solid as a slice of swiss cheese.

Enter the dragon...Murad's Sleep Reform Dietary Supplements. A supplement formulated to encourage the onset of sleep, improve the depth and duration of sleep and support your skin's cellular repair cycle. Long story short, this supplement works. I fall asleep easily and miracle of miracles, I stay asleep.

I literally can't remember the last time I slept through the night. I don't wake up groggy or feeling that druggy hangover you can get from OTC sleeping aids. Honestly, I'm feeling a little Y2K about this stuff- I want to dig a shelter an stockpile cases of it...and I have the energy to do it thanks to my much improved sleep.

We Nailed It...OPI's Axxium Gel Lacquer

2009-02-25T11:49:00.000-08:00

I can't keep polish on my fingernails. I'm good for about eight hours before the nail lacquer starts to peel off. Blame it on oily nail beds, frequent hand washing or bad karma, it just won't stay put.

Jenny Richer, OPI educator and Spa Scotta nail technician extraordinaire, recently broadened my horizons and polished my nails with OPI's Axxium Gel Lacquer. She gave me a basic manicure and then applied the base coat, colored gel lacquer and top coat, curing each layer under a UV light. This polish lasts up to two weeks.

Imagine the possibilities...for moms, business women, brides, on vacations or business trips. Fabulously shiny nails and no fussing for at least two weeks. Spa Scotta nailed it!