an interwiew with Gene Juarez

Designing the Spa Experience
An Interview with Gene Juarez

In an industry full of "personalities," there are few names more recognizable than Gene Juarez. He has built one of the largest and most successful groups of salons and day spas in the country. To compliment his seven award winning locations in and around Seattle, and to help fuel the growth of his company, he has also established two cosmetology schools and the Gene Juarez Advanced Training Salon.

Much has been written about the "results" of his efforts. His salons and spas have consistently been given industry "best" awards. Clients have "voted" their approval by flocking there in ever growing numbers. Over 20,000 clients per week visit his seven salons and days spas, over a million a year. And yet inside the four walls of each location, clients are treated to an experience that they repeatedly describe as a relaxing escape from the frenetic pace of everyday life.

It is a one of life's axioms that nothing ever happens accidentally, so I went to Seattle to ask Gene about his vision of the "spa experience." Click on the links below for highlights of our discussion with an industry icon who has taken the art of designing an experience to the pinnacle of achievement.

It starts with the flow of people.

A passion for the details.

A feast for the senses.

The balance of energy.

The client experience.



Photo Rick Dahms