Spa Etiquette

Spa Week has ended here in NYC, and yes I did get a chance to attend a spa day at the Townhouse Spa in Manhattan. Dasani water sponsored a free spa day! Yes, free. Chilli from the group TLC made an appearance. She is the new spokesperson for Dasani water, encouraging women to drink plenty of water to maintain that healthy glow as well as a healthy body. It was a great day, I walked out with a fancy pedicure, waxed brows, and the best part was the relaxing massage . A few friends asked me to write a blog about spa etiquette as spa week wrapped up last week, but I was so busy enjoying myself that it almost slipped my mind. So here it is, take notes!

Arrive Early- 15 minutes is enough, and let me share with you why so you can really do your best to follow this important piece of advice. The point is to be relaxed for your visit, so get there early to check in at the front desk. I say go for the early appointment, before noon is my recommendation. Check in and you will be assigned a locker. Most upscale spas have a fab locker room with showers, saunas, steam rooms, vanity mirrors, and lots of products. Remove your jewelry, and don your robe. Remember leave the cell phone... key word is relax, right? OK, so now time to explore, take a quick steamy shower, sit in the steam room and have some "me" time. If you want more "me" time, a half hour early may be your best bet. Float into the waiting area, have a light snack and some water or tea. You may have a consultation form to fill out before you begin your service, be honest about allergies and medications or any other personal information. Next thing you know, someone is calling for you. It's time...

*fyi* If you are running late, call and let someone know. They may have to make another appointment for you, or just fit you in later that day. Warning- some spas do charge you for a missed appointment.

What to wear under the robe- The age old question and concern. Your masseuse will prefer your birthday suit, but you may prefer to leave your under garments on. Some spas have disposable undergarments available which may be a better option because you will be slathered with oils and cremes which may soil your precious pieces. Most likely, your masseuse has seen all body types, shapes, and sizes. Enjoy your experience, get your money's worth. Your birthday suit is your best bet..

Male or Female?- My answer is to try both. Please don't rely on your friend's experience to make your decision. The final decision is yours and a personal one. I would suggest that if you prefer a female, say so at the time you make your appointment. Making demands the day of your appointment, well let's just say it lacks tact. Especially if you are late...

Small Talk- I have chatted away the entire time. I have also been quiet as a mouse and at times fallen asleep saying only "hello" and "thank you". It is perfectly acceptable to say that you prefer not to chat and it is perfectly acceptable to talk during your entire service. There may also be music playing, if you prefer no music or need the volume adjusted, simply say so. Remember, this is about you.

Relax, don't get up right away- There is no rush when your service is finished, take your time getting up from the massage table. Take a few deep breaths, stretch, get dressed slowly. Visit the lounge for some tea, or water. Take it all in, enjoy. Especially if you are stepping back into the streets of NYC..

Tipping- Protocol is 15 to 20 percent. The tip is left when checking out. You can either add it to your credit card or leave cash in a tiny manila envelope which the spa will provide. Please do not try to slip a 20 in the hands of your masseuse on your way out with a wink and a pat on the back. Remember the part about tact..

Bon Chance!

Museum Protocol

April 1, 2009 I attended a reception at the Studio Museum of Harlem. The reception was an opportunity for members to see the new spring collection. The Studio Museum of Harlem is located at 144 W. 125th Street in Manhattan. The museum's mission is:
“The Studio Museum in Harlem is the nexus for black artists locally, nationally, and internationally, and for work that has been inspired by black culture. It is a site for the dynamic exchange of ideas about art and society.”

There was an eclectic group of artists,students, supporters, and members like myself. So, is there certain protocol that museum visitors should follow? The answer is *yes* Take note of the following and share it with a friend or date the next time you are visiting a museum.

• Don't Touch- You will most likely see a small sign posted to the left, right, below, or above the painting or piece of art work that states~ DON'T TOUCH~ and yes, it could possibly be in CAPS. We all know what CAPS mean right? If not, please see my post from (3-8-09). Please adhere to this sign, no matter how tempting it is to touch some of the beautiful pieces of art work on display at museums. There are a few good reasons for not touching. One reason is our fingers and palms have natural oils and they can over time wear down and change the look of a painting or sculpture. Respect the work of the artist and please don't touch.
• Stand Back- Unless you are the *only* person in the museum, step back and admire art work from a distance. Be careful not to block anyone else's view.
• Don't Lecture- Your visit should be a peaceful and pleasant experience. A museum is not a lecture hall or a pulpit. If you happen to know everything about Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso well keep it to yourself. Share it with your friends at dinner, or over coffee after your museum visit.
• Avoid Chatter- Nobody wants to know what you are doing after you leave the museum, or what your plans are for summer vacation in the South of France. Keep chatter to a minimum and save it for the walk or ride home.
• "That's Art?, I could have done that."- Admire, appreciate, or not. Definitely keep your opinions to yourself. If you don't like it.. move on.

http://www.studiomuseum.org/

Bon Chance!