Las Vegas Spa Association

Previously Featured Vendors:

Carmen Tal – Moroccanoil

Carmen Tal is co-owner of Moroccanoil and Executive Vice President of Marketing and Product Development. Considered one of the most influential women in the beauty industry, she has been in the forefront of the meteoric rise of the company, transforming Morroccanoil into the professional salon industry's most talked brand.

In only two short years Moroccanoil has become a phenomenon in the salon and spa industry. How do you explain the excitement?
I think the core of our success is quality, and the dramatic restorative effect our Argan Oil line has on the hair. We've perfected a proprietary formula that not only leaves the hair naturally shiny, frizz-and static-free, it also improves its condition and makes it stronger with each use. It's been discovered by celebrity, film, television and runway stylists as well as beauty editors.

Is Moroccanoil a brand or an ingredient?
Great question! Moroccanoil is an exclusive brand name and not an ingredient. It's an Argan Oil based product. There is no such generic ingredient as "Moroccan oil." We're seeing a few low-quality pretenders claiming they are "Moroccan oil" products. As a result, we've issued industry alerts advising professionals and consumers.

Why is this hair treatment and styling line so popular in spas and salons now?
I think it's because it is essentially a luxurious treatment product. And because it's so easy to use, absorbs right in without build-up, fortifies the hair, as well as leaves it naturally shiny and protected from UV rays and the environment. It's a natural extension for clients who have just had their spa treatments, and want to also enhance the health and look of their hair. It's also an effortless retail item for clients to take home as part of their regimen.

How did you get the idea for the brand and where is Moroccanoil based?
I'm originally from Chile but now live in Montreal, Canada with my husband, son, and two daughters. We discovered the original Moroccanoil Treatment during a visit to Israel when we saw the incredible instant results in my own hair. We decided that this remarkable product had to be shared with the rest of the world, brought it to North America, and later bought the company.

How do you spend your time off?
When I travel I love visiting spas when time permits or when staying a hotel offering a good spa and salon. Most of my free time is spent with my family, husband, 3 young children and 2 dogs. Whenever possible we spend the weekends in the north of Montreal at our cottage by the lake.

Carmen can be reached at: Carmen@moroccanoil.com

Kali Einsohn – Universal Companies

Kali Einsohn has 13 years of leadership, management and communications experience, including 6 years in the spa industry. As a rep for Universal Companies she brings their 25 year legacy as the leading single-source supplier of spa products to the Las Vegas Spa market. Her enthusiasm is tremendous and she has been a great supporter of the LVSA.

Where are you from and how’d you get to Vegas?
I am a Texas girl. I was born and raised in Dallas, but I currently reside in Austin. I came to Austin for college and I love it so much I just can’t leave! I think the decision for me to cover the Vegas market was influenced by a lot of factors, like location, prior career experience, and personality. It has turned out to be a great match!

What are 3 of the best products in your line up?
That’s tough; we have over 5,000 products in our catalog! I think what’s more important than any one product is the entire program we can offer to our spas, with the 3 best features SIMPLIFY, SAVE, and SERVE. We can help SIMPLIFY with streamlined, customized, website and auto-replenishment ordering, online asset management and free online education; SAVE money on operating expenses with supply consolidation and our NEW REWARDS PROGRAM; and we offer the highest level of SERVICE doing it backed by a company that is 130 employees strong.

What is something unique about the way you help spas?
Before Universal, I was in corporate purchasing and I wore a lot of hats – just like a spa director does. I know what it is like to sit across the table from a salesperson. I try to be all of those qualities I looked for in my favorite salespeople, PLUS find solutions for my customers to make their life easier. I also think like a buyer for my customers; how what I am selling will turn for them, and how to help them manage their cash flow and inventory. It’s not just about selling something in, it’s about moving it through with services and education to help my spas be successful.

What will we find you doing when you’re not doing this?
On my yoga mat, walking outdoors, or reading books and magazines on wellness. Wellness has been a passion of mine since college, which is why I love the spa industry. But I also love college football, so on game day you’ll find me watching the Texas Longhorns somewhere with my friends!

What superhero would you be and why?
Wonder Woman. I loved her when I was a little girl! I tend to try and take on the world like that, to be everything for everyone and do it all.

But really it is fitting because I am inherently strong and independent and I love helping and doing things for others.

Kali can be reached at: keinsohn@UniversalCompanies.com

Perry Gastis – The Gentlemens Refinery

Perry is the Founder and Owner of The Gentlemens Refinery. The line features all natural men’s grooming products from a Men’s Grooming Expert! Perry is a former Master Barber for The Art of Shaving and most recently, Executive Barber for Truefitt and Hill. Perry has worked magic on an elite clientele that ranges from celebrities to Fortune 500 executives. He is the expert voice behind askthebarber.com

You are a men’s grooming expert, how did you get started?
I come from a long line of Barber’s and Hairstylists on both sides of my family, so I guess I was born to do this. I grew up in salons, my parents owned and operated high end (for the day) salons in Toronto and Scottsdale and I followed suit. From the moment I started I sort of migrated to the men’s grooming part of the business. I officially began my career in 1986, in Scottsdale Arizona, opening my first salon the next year. I have been learning, practicing, and honing my skills ever since. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from some amazing talent’s both in women’s hair, and men’s grooming. Today I feel high end, high quality men’s grooming services, and men’s skin care products are still in their infancy as far as widespread acceptance. I witness daily the entire market growing rapidly, and extremely underserved. Lucky me!

Where did you grow up and when was your 1st shave?
I grew up in Toronto. Believe it or not, my first straight razor shave service came in Toronto, at the age of 12. I had become friendly with the son of the neighborhood Barber, an old style Italian Barber named Joe and when the shop was busy, I would shave necks and around ears…it was fun, I made pretty good tips, and learned all sorts of bad habits!

First there was “metro-sexual” now I call him the spa dude, how big can the spa business get for the “regular guy”?
Simply put…HUGE! I feel the spa dude or metro sexual will morph into the most widely accepted form of grooming and hygiene. I would guess that the first guys to bathe daily were called some sort of “pan zee” names as well…until the rest of the “regular guys” of their day realized how attractive these bathers, and “tooth brushers” had become to the opposite (or same) sex. I don’t think there has been a time in history where on aggregate women have been so beautiful or attractive, I believe this stems from healthy maintenance, and preserving products and procedures found in many spa’s today…the men are following suit, I know, I convert them daily!

As a business owner and entrepreneur what is your goal in Las Vegas?
First I must tell you, being a Las Vegas based company has assisted in our growth exponentially! The opportunities to showcase our wares here to worldwide audiences have proved invaluable. Quite frankly I have already superseded any Las Vegas specific goals for The Gentlemens Refinery. We have recently partnered with Canyon Ranch Spa at the new Barber Suite, part of their new Palazzo expansion. The Gentlemens Refinery branded services are implemented on clients and our products are the exclusive men’s grooming brand available within the entire spa. Our products are also featured at Jennifer Lynn’s Qua Spa in Caesar’s Palace. We are extremely proud of both of these placements. Now my job is to open spas and or retailers on the same plain of exclusivity. Pretty cool to be able to pick and choose from here! I love Las Vegas!

These “adult pools” seem to be the rage in Vegas these days, how much hair is too much hair?
That’s very funny! If we were sitting around the pool at Caesar’s in 78’ compared to 08’ it would have looked like a remnants sale at the Carpet World! Now less is definitely best. In my opinion hairy men have gone from in fashion to strictly fetish…

Perry can be reached at: perry@thegr.com

Twila Caldwell - Spa Development International

Twila Caldwell is the Founder and Owner of Spa Development International. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Communication, a Master’s degree in Training & Development, a Post Baccalaureate degree in Education, and ten years of executive spa experience. This extensive background in addition to an absolutely beautiful personality makes her one of LVSA’s most outstanding members!

Tell us what’s new at SDI?
SDI is now a minority/woman owned business! SDI has been selected to be part of the SSC, the Sustainable Spa Council where SDI educates the hospitality industry on sustainable spa and salon equipment options as well as sustainable operational practices. SDI is a sustainable practicing company, from the marketing pieces created (re-cycled paper and vegetable ink used for printing) to the equipment selection we offer. In 2008 SDI will opening a sustainable equipment showroom in Scottsdale, AZ.

Life is crazy in the spa world, how does Twila stay grounded?
Balance is something that I strive for daily. My daily workouts bring a lot of relief to my crazy days. Beyond that it’s good coffee, Frank Sinatra, my two kitties, ESPN, and time with family and friends…not to mention a great pizza.

How does being a tri-athlete help?
Training for an Ironman takes a lot of time, dedication, and focus…these are traits that I use in my daily work life while working with clients. Doing an Ironman requires patience, follow-through, and heart…my projects and clients receive the same qualities. Every triathlon is a new and different race. Every client and project has their own individual needs. Work is like a triathlon for me… I train to be the best and have a great time.

How Las Vegas been treating Twila?
Las Vegas has always been a second home for me. I love the energy the spa community has, it’s a cohesive family that is always inviting and accepting of new ideas and new family members. I love my Vegas family!

Give us a good book (you’re read) and a good movie (you’ve seen):
A good book: The Four Agreements
A good movie: The 11th Hour

Twila can be reached at: twila@spadev.com

Jane Cox-Southwest Pilates

Southwest Pilates focuses on developing the deep stabilizing muscles of the torso and strengthening core abdominal and back muscles around the spinal column. Pilates is a non-impact resistance exercise system. It can eliminate stress on the joints making this exercise method versatile, safe, and effective for all ages and fitness levels.

Tell me about your background: I am originally from London, England and have always been an active individual. I started dancing at the age of 4 and have never stopped! I danced professionally for 10 years traveling around the world and my travels eventually led me to Las Vegas – the entertainment capital of the world. Throughout my travels I spent years studying for a career in the fitness industry and this eventually led me to a position as Fitness Director at Canyon Ranch SpaClub and to the present date as an owner of two Pilates studios, Southwest Pilates, here in Las Vegas.

How does Pilates try in with fitness and spa? The aim of any spa is to allow the individual to relax, renew and reconnect mind with body. The whole purpose of Pilates is mind/body connection through breath and movement. Learning about your body and how to deal with the daily stresses life throws at us is fundamental in maintaining your mental, emotional and physical health. Therefore Pilates and the spa environment go hand in hand and create a perfect synergy.

What plans does Jane and Southwest have for the Las Vegas market? I am very excited as I am the first, and only, person in Nevada to have the Cancer Exercise Specialist and also the Breast Cancer Exercise Specialist certifications. The majority of Southwest Pilates focus is rehabilitation (Southwest Pilates also offer private, semi-private and group classes) and with the above certifications we will be branching out into the cancer community here in Las Vegas to offer rehabilitation services. This is a personal goal of mine as I have a lot of family members who have dealt with the disease and I am privileged to be able to give back to the Las Vegas community.

What do spa directors in Las Vegas need to know Pilates? Pilates is a class format that anyone can do no matter the fitness level or age of the individual. Because of those reasons alone every spa should offer this class on their program offerings. It is a class that every guest to the spa can participate in – surely every spa wants that! It is also extremely important to have a nationally certified instructor on staff. There are so many “2-day” certifications out there that do not have the depth of knowledge, modification options and special population information that I believe is required for any instructor. Especially an instructor that is dealing with thousands of different people a year walking through the doors of a spa.

Do you every miss the “show lights”? I was blessed to be able to work for 10 years as a professional dancer and I loved every minute of it. However a dancer’s life is not forever and I knew the time was right when I stepped off the stage for the last time. I have been incredibly lucky to have found a second career that I also absolutely love. Not only am I teaching Pilates full-time but I am helping people gain strength, flexibility, range of motion and get back to their day-to-day activities. After an accident, illness or surgery this is all anyone wants and I can assist these people in making that happen. That is worth any standing ovation!

Jane can be reached at: info@southwestpilates.com

Diane Johnson-Hylunia

Since 1988 Hylunia has grown to be the trusted skin care brand used by physicians and exclusive spas around the world. Diane Johnson offers more than 13 years of accomplishments and experience in the retail sales industry. During her career, Diane has had the opportunity to work with many leading experts in the cosmetic and skin care industry and brings this valuable insight and knowledge to the LVSA membership.

Tell me about your business:
Our focus is to create products that calm and soothe the skin and reduce the impact of environmental stress and sensitivity. We offer a holistic, result oriented approach to skin care by incorporating detoxification programs, Ayurveda, yoga, meditation, aromatherapy and herbal supplements to achieve complete mind, body and beauty.

What kind of knowledge can Dr. Link share?
Born from generations of Ayurvedic physicians from Sri Lanka, Dr. Link has extensive knowledge and experience in Ayurveda, anti-aging, aromacology, wellness, yoga and meditation. Dr. Link wishes to share his 20 years of research into skin inflammation and irritation and how it contributes to aging.

What plans does Hylunia have for the Las Vegas market?
Our wish is to take all the guess work out of choosing products and services for the Las Vegas spa industry by alleviating worry about liabilities and unsatisfied customers related to product reactions.

What do spa directors in Las Vegas need to know about Diane Johnson?
I was surprised to discover that in the spa industry, home care products only represent 10% of their total sales, yet department store sales triple this percentage. The spa industry is growing in direct proportion to the number of consumers frequenting spas, yet this trend has not affected department store skin care sales at all. Logically, this means that spa visitors continue to purchase their home care products from department stores.

I believe this is due to the lack of retail training. I would like to share my knowledge and selling skills with aestheticians so that they will have the confidence needed to become more successful. This gained knowledge will allow the spa industry to be more competitive and increase profitability.

If you had to take another job in Vegas it would be:
I never really thought about it, but I’m sure it would be a position in the skin care industry.

Diane can be reached at: dianej@hylunia.com

Jennifer Ricketts of Jen Morgan

Jen from Jen Morgan provides quality spa products to many of our Las Vegas’ area spas. She realizes the importance of branding a spa through its amenities. The company can individualize the spa environment with a boutique collection of product lines that boost the bottom line, both in the front and back of the house! She and Jennifer Miller have been great supporters of the LVSA.

When and where did Jen Morgan start?
I started as a sales representative in the spa and resort industry about 5 years ago selling robes. Formerly known as the robe girl!

What is special about the Las Vegas environment?
It is a tight knit community of spa professionals and you really have to be great at your job to make it. It is impressive to watch the art of running a spa in Las Vegas.

Why is branding so important for spas?
Spas used to be a minor part of a property and have now taken over as an important part of building a resort brand. Creating products and experiences that differentiate your spa is how you set yourself apart from competition. Branding needs be done specifically; planning products and tying in back bar and retail is important.

What types of new unique spa products might we expect to see?
New products include spa snacks that are healthy and can be used in retail and as locker gifts. Active-ware, custom robes, jewelry, candles. Spa retail as a whole, merchandising and buying is VERY important. Creating a flow to retail where the spa guides the customer through the retail area. Make sure price point and sizes are correct for your demographics.

Is there a future for dog spas?
I think there is a place for this but I am not sure about the concept in Vegas. Maybe this will go over at a hotel that allows the guest to have dogs and it would be a nice added service for high-rollers that love there puppies! Still not sure a guest that is not a pet enthusiast would like to be side by side with a Fury Pooch.

Is there anyone at Jen Morgan not named Jen?
I now have “Gina Bernardini” on the Team. She is fabulous and many of you know her.

Jen can be reached at: jen@jen-morgan.com

Philippe Therene-SpaEquip Corporate Accounts

Since 1987, Philippe Therene and his SpaEquip Corporate Accounts Division have become the premier source for spa design and technical documentation related to spa and salon equipment. SpaEquip proudly works with the world’s best spa developers, managers and consultants who have come to rely on them as their single source.

Tell me about your business. With one call you have over 17 years of spa expertise and all types of spa equipment to select from. We will help you evaluate the various equipment choices and consolidate your spa equipment order into one comprehensive proposal. We offer volume discounts based on the size and scope of the project and offer many project management services that will ensure your project’s success.

What are three reasons for the tremendous proliferation of spas? In general people are smart and know they have to keep their sanity in this fast pace world of ours. Most spa treatments bring a feeling of well being that spa goers tend to find addictive. And then, business people are finding out there is money to be made in spas.

What types of challenges do new spa developers face? The Industry is maturing and becoming very competitive. You always need to stay one step ahead of the game. Spa developers also have a hard time recruiting qualified staff at all levels of spa operations since the education institutions have not been able to keep up with the demand for qualified spa operators and therapists.

What is one thing Americans assume, that the rest of the world does not? Compared to the rest of the world Americans tend not to assume too much but act upon careful evaluation and consideration of profit potential. This is probably why Americans are among the most successful business people on the planet.

Describe your perfect day in Las Vegas. It would be a day that would start with the cab lines at the airport measuring less that a mile or two. And then everybody the Jackpot and celebrates with a good glass of fine wine from the Napa Valley, also home for SpaEquip!

Philippe can be reached at: philippe@spaequip.com

Gary Levulett, Gary Levulett Sales

A gentleman and a scholar, Gary Levulett has been serving the needs of Las Vegas area spas for seven years. His congenial nature lets his customers enjoy him as much as his product. Gary Levulett Sales, as Gary says “Has it all!”

Tell me about your business. Gary Levulett Sales is a “One-Stop Shop” for all spas and spa retail needs. I sell everything from cotton in every form to razors to robes to retail body care and skin care lines. “If I don’t have it, they don’t need it.” “Or I could find it for them.”

How long have you been doing business in LV? 7 years, Las Vegas is the “Spa Capital of the Planet”. I work with Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, MGM, Mandara, Bally’s, Venetian, Flamingo, Ritz-Carlton.

Do you agree ‘what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas’? Very true, Lots of people do things in Las Vegas that they wouldn’t do anywhere else.

What do like best about the spa industry? All of my friends. The people I have had long relationships with. It is about body wellness, healing and attending to the whole body. Exciting and exhilarating!

Give me three words that describe you most. Gentle, dependable, and honest.

Favorite vacation spot. Hawaii, I love Waikiki Beach for all the action. I love Kauai and the other islands but after 6 p.m. everybody is ‘night-night’.

Words a bartender hears most frequently from your mouth…. Another one.

Gary can be reached at: gary@psphx.com

Kelly Walsh, Soul Scents

A licensed massage therapist, Kelly was always committed to blending her own products. These creative amalgamations were so well received a new spa supply business was born. Soul Scents scrubs, oils and body products are very unique. Each product is packaged with words of inspiration. All Soul Scents items: scrubs, oils, tank tops, tee shirts and jewelry come with a positive message intended to inspire the spa client.

What do you think about Las Vegas Spas?
I think of a golden opportunity to present retail products to customers who want to spend money. A huge opportunity to service new faces everyday. It is a very advantageous retail market.

Soul Scents is about inspiration, what is yours?
My inspiration is to use my business to inspire; creating products that will help make people feel better, to be their best!

Give me a substitute for the term "metro sexual".
"The Pampered Man", a man unafraid to pamper himself.

How would you get more "real men" into a spa?
Design facilities with "men" in mind. Create names of services that appeal to men. No foo-foo. Start with the basics. Use hot tubs and steam then go from there.

What would you rather have, massage or facial?
Oh ..a massage…no doubt!

If James Brown is the God Father of soul, who is the God Mother?
I am.

What celebrity would benefit most from a Soul Scents product?
Why? Brad Pitt, because I want to inspire Him…(kidding.)

Can you name an inspiring person?
Yes…Al Walsh my husband who reminds me to "stay calm" everyday.

Kelly Walsh can be reached at: kellyw@soulsents.org

Tammy Lier, Team Spa

Team Spa is a full service training and coaching company providing tools and strategies to create results. Tammy has tailored 10 years of consulting with Fortune 500 companies, corporate mangers and professionals into a special Spa Staff/Spa Experience enhancement program.

You’re relatively new to Las Vegas, what do you think?
I love it, there’s lots of opportunity and open-minded people. I’ve met many other who’ve relocated also, makes it easy to make friends.

Why work with Spas? What’s the connection?
Team Spa is like a full service spa, allowing people to get results through proven methods; we’ve identified a need for teaching “mental fitness” amongst the spa employees.

Why don’t men care about their feet?
It depends on the man, but men don’t see the value in good feet. We need to create the reasons why a man needs good feet!

Spas promote mind, body, and spirit, how can you enhance the enhancers?
We partner with the leadership and open up new possible methods of improvement. Spa employees treat people special, so we refuel and recharge them with the same special treatment.

If Las Vegas is the fastest growing city in America, is the world getting smaller or larger?
The Vegas world is getting larger...

Does technology decrease the need for us to smile?
No, absolutely not. It should increase it!

Can you name a modern day hero?
Oooooo…. I’d have to say Jesus.

Would Jesus go to a spa?
Absolutely!

Tammy Lier can be reached at:tlier@cox.net