The spa industry has recently seen a burst in the popularity of spa parties, service packages often offered at discount rates to groups at in-house events. Many International SPA Association (ISPA) members have taken advantage of the popularity of spa packages for groups, and several have gotten creative with the services they offer.

“Many spas offer service packages for group events, such as employee appreciation days, birthday parties, baby showers and simple gatherings of friends,” said Lynne McNees, president of the ISPA. “Some spas are offering discount packages and happy hour deals during which groups can enjoy spa treatments together at a lower price.”

In addition to hosting lunch and dinner spa parties, the Spa at Chateau Elan in Braselton, Georgia has a special room for group services.

“I think the fact that we have a small "relaxation room" where some of the services are done in a relaxing group environment is unique,” says Michelle Ufer-Herold, spa director. “Guests can have their feet rubbed while enjoying champagne and strawberries and sharing time with special friends.”

Sandpearl Resort in Clearwater Beach, Florida offers in-house spa parties where guests can take home souvenirs from their experience.

“As an added perk for our group, I have the individual set their intentions for either the day or life by choosing one of our one-worded inspiration stones,” says Dawn Caldwell, assistant spa manager. “Then they get to keep the stone. It is a very moving topic of discussion because people usually choose a stone that pertains to their life.”

One of the most popular spa parties that many spas and resorts host targets bridal parties. “I had a pre-bachelorette weekend get-together,” says Julie White, a client at MiniLuxe in Needham Heights, Massachusetts. “It was so perfect to get the best mani and pedi in town for me and my girls in such a fun environment. It was the perfect start to a great weekend.”

“At Spa Réveil, we host various spa parties, from birthdays and anniversaries to corporate events, yet our most popular spa-rties are bridal parties,” says Lindsey Carlton on behalf of Spa Réveil in Austin, Texas. “It is a time of reunion with friends and family, celebrating a once-in-a-lifetime event for the bride.”

“Everyone always assumes the bride and her girls are the only ones who need or want spa treatments, but let’s not forget about the guys,” says Heidi Clark, spa director at Ascent Spa at Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite in Fish Camp, Calif. “Under a poolside cabana the men will enjoy massages, men’s manicures and pedicures, hot towel facials all partnered with a beer tasting and some very manly snacks. We don’t know too many men who would turn all that down!”

McNees continued, “The number one reason both men and women worldwide visit a spa is to learn how to manage their stress. Weddings and other times of great joy can be also be times of great stress. Spas are offering a stress-free atmosphere that gives you permission to pause.”