Meet Bridget Flannigan, spa director of The Spa at The Crescent at Hotel Crescent Court (Dallas), who has 22 years of experience in the spa and hospitality industry.
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
My original interest in beauty came from watching my grandmother get dressed up for evening outings on weekends. I started my career by spending half my high school day at cosmetology school and obtaining my cosmetology license by the time I was 18.
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of being in the spa industry?
The most challenging part of the industry is keeping up with changes and adapting to new technology, ingredients, and products that have made the industry flourish. The most rewarding part is seeing the joy on people's faces after showing them comfort, relaxation, and a side of themselves that maybe they weren't able to find on their own.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
My proudest accomplishment is being able to teach the next generation, as well as winning Club of Excellence at Ulta Beauty, Artistry at Lifetime, and Culture Club of the Year with Equinox.
What has surprised you most about working in the spa industry?
What has surprised me most is the evolution and the growth in every category, including the nail business and CBD.
Where do you think the industry is heading?
I think the industry is heading to work with more technology and smarter in our at-home skincare routines.
What’s your favorite skincare ingredient?
I would have to say my favorite skincare ingredient is hyaluronic acid. It is a small molecule with a large goal and has been used in more products over the last few years and in different ways to really showcase its performance.
What positions have you worked in that you feel have been most influential to your career?
The most influential position I think I've been in my career has been teaching.
Was there a time you had to make a decision in your career that ended up changing your destiny?
I was presented with the dilemma of COVID and how it affected the spa industry, and I knew I loved the industry and I could do it anywhere in the world, so that actually brought me down to Dallas to pursue fitness and spa as one.
If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would you be?
I would be an artist.
How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
I truly believe all we have in this world is what we have to give, whether that is our knowledge or a physical presence of an item. I think giving is the way to live life.
How do you like to spend your time away from work?
I like to spend most of the time away from work with my dog, Roger Eugene. He is the love of my life. I love nature, I love birds, and I love to be outdoors.
What are your three greatest priorities in life?
My three values in life would be to remain grateful and have gratitude in everything I do, to be conscious of every action we have, and to bring value to your community and to people around you in every action.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
Be the light you want to see in the world.