Is there anything better than going for a full spa treatment day at a lush location with your closest friends? It's almost the perfect day, and the only major grumble most of us will have is that the cost means we can't do it as often as we like. But, there are alternatives that can be a great way to indulge yourselves - without the vast expense. Why not have a spa day and night from the comfort of your home? Here's a quick guide on everything you will need for the perfect spa day at home with your best friends.
Making arrangements: First of all, you'll need to decide on the best day that fits in with everyone's plans. Give everyone enough notice so that they can clear their diaries. Once you have a rough idea of numbers, you can send out some invitations. Hand-made ones are best, although if you don't mind spending a bit, then there are designers out there that can help you out. You'll need to send them out with plenty of time to spare - preferably a month, but no later than three weeks. This way, if someone drops out, you should have a chance to find a replacement if you want.
You don't have to create a cash kitty for your event, but if you are worried about money, it is a fair way to go about it. Take a look at all of your costs and divide them equally up between all the guests. You can either ask for cash in hand or pass on your bank details so that people can transfer money from their account. Keep a log book - and also insist on a deadline. If everyone pays by the deadline, it means you can expect far fewer dropouts. Nothing is worse than organising an event, only for everyone to fail to turn up at the last minute. Of course, there will always be situations where people have emergencies and can't come. But, at least if you have a kitty, and everyone suddenly gets sick, you won't be too much out of pocket.
As your spa day draws closer, you'll need to start making some serious preparations. You might need to order some items in - new towels, for example, or some nice new glasses or tumblers. You can go the extra mile, too. Think about ordering personalised dressing gowns, which might bring something special to the occasion. Scented candles are always a good idea; as are essential oils. Also, consider hiring some specialist spa equipment, such as nail clippers, cuticle sticks and paper towels. You will need to sketch out a plan for your day and night, too. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Your best bet is to set up various stations around the house. The spa treatments you want is up to you, so ask around your friends and come up with a rota. It's best to have someone that is comfortable and competent with the appropriate treatment manning each station. Think about manicures, pedicures, massage and facials, first. You could also use eyebrow or hair treatments too if anyone has the skills. Reflexology and aromatherapy are also good ideas. Keep the messiest spa treatments for the bathroom and kitchen - well away from any carpet areas. It's vital that you decide on your treatments well before the event. It will give you more time to set everything up, and you will avoid any last minute panics.
It's wise to start arranging everything on the day before your spa party. Start rearranging furniture, and planning out your lighting. Lamps and candles will be a great way to introduce a relaxing mood. Think about music, too. It might be an idea to ask people to bring their music devices with them unless you have enough of your own. You will also need to start planning out your homemade spa treatments, such as face masks and creams. You can buy them, of course, but homemade versions will add a nice touch to proceedings. You can squish up lots of different foods, from strawberries and oatmeal all the way through to cucumbers and bananas. Store them overnight in the fridge so that they don't go off before the big day.
An early start is advisable, here! Assuming your guests are coming at some point in the mid-late morning, there is still a lot to do. Get some healthy snacks together - fresh fruit, sliced veggies, and dips, and whatever else you think might go down well. Go around the house for one final check to make sure that everything is in order. Check the number of towels is enough for everyone, and include some spares. It's also an excellent idea to give everyone an individual bag with everything they need inside. You could add their facial treatments, for example, or fake nails and eyelashes if you are going down that route.
As the clock ticks by, you can expect some guests to arrive early. So, make sure you have everything ready to go at least an hour before the official start time. Switch on some soothing music, and arrange the lighting so that it has an instant effect when everyone walks in. You might even want to pour some sparkling wine or champagne. As your guests arrive, greet them at the door. Bring them through to the room designated as a changing room, and make sure that everyone ties back their hair and are ready to go. As soon as all your guests arrive, you can all get down to business!
Finally, make sure you have an excellent time. Organising any party in your home can be stressful, but that totally defeats the object of a spa day. Try not to stress too much about the little things - it's a group of good friends, after all. If everyone gets involved as they should, you should all have a great time.
Let us know how it went - and feel free to leave any other home based spa day tips if you have them!
