Today we’d like to introduce you to Carissa Ballard.
Hi Carissa, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was in accident when I was eight that caused minor physical disability. In my teenage years , despite living in a small town in the hill country and it being the 80’s before alternative methods were accepted, my mother sought help thru alternative doctors. I also suffered from extreme cystic acne and hormonal issues and often wondered why I couldn’t go to one facility where several specialties worked synergistically. Again in my 20’s, I had another major accident in which I spent over a year in physical rehabilitation. Massage therapy was what truly helped me the most. I was already attending cosmetology school and because of physical impairment had to focus on skin care. I trained in medical aesthetics focusing on care for burn and cancer survivors and came across lymphatic drainage . I went to massage school so I could also work on the body and found my own body healed thru the movements. I opened my Spa in 1999 and still train all over the world to evolve with the changing spa industry combining aspects of metaphysical modalities that help balance internally and externally in a relaxing environment .
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not always. While we were very successful from the beginning, self care was not as widely accepted as it is now. There were times in the early years it was hard to convince clients regular care was beneficial. The crash in 2008 affected everyone in industries that were viewed more as “luxuries”. I trained my staff thoroughly yet because we were in a small community I didn’t feel it was ethical to have a non-compete claus and some opened their own places. While I welcome healthy competion and collaboration not everyone uses ethical tactics and choose to tear down others rather than unite. Thankfully our dedication and authenticity has helped us survive,thrive, and evolve with constant changes in the industry and community.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about European Day Spa of Fredericksburg?
European Day Spa,has been open since 1999. Once the largest spa in town, we now offer a personalized experience in a small, private space. Our clients are the only focus while there and we customize all services to their preference. We are always expanding our knowledge and adding new therapies , not necessarily the trends , rather what is most effective in getting results. We believe in quality versus quantity so we are not trying to be the busiest Spa and will not herd anyone in and out. We also incorporate energetic modalities so there is a whole effect , inside and out. We love what we do and our passion shows.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Stay authentic, give from the heart , do what you love and you will always have support . If something doesn’t serve you and your customers in the best way, change it. Chasing fads will keep you chasing. Never think you know it all . Even when you know you are the best at what you do, reach further. Success with sacrifice is not success but success with balance is.
Pricing:
- Facials start at $95 per hour
- Massage Therapy starts at $99 per hour
- Spa Packages start at $225
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.eurospafredericksburg.com
- Instagram: @eurospatx
- Facebook: European Day Spa of Fredericksburg
- Yelp: European Day Spa of Fredericksburg
