Melissa Ratkovits has been in the spa and hospitality industry for 24 years, serving in a number of different roles, including cosmetologist, esthetician, professional makeup artist, and massage therapist before owning three spas and eventually becoming a spa director and manager. Before joining Sense Spa at Rosewood Miramar Beach (Montecito, CA) as director of wellness, spa, and beauty in January 2024, she held roles at several other spas, including the Spa at Squaw Creek at The Resort at Squaw Creek (Olympic Valley, CA), Marilyn Monroe Spa at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa (Lahaina, HI), Rock Spa at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa (Catoosa, OK), Rock Spa at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa (FL), and Spa Evangeline at Epicurean Hotel (Tampa, FL). Learn more about Ratkovits, her path to where she is today, and her thoughts on the future of spa and wellness.
WHAT ARE THE MOST CHALLENGING AND REWARDING PARTS OF BEING IN THE SPA INDUSTRY?
The challenges that always seem to be relevant throughout my career have been finding quality licensed providers and keeping them engaged and producing consistent treatments for guests. Also, setting the service standards to meet guest expectations, as they have become educated in their wellness journeys. The rewards come when you have made a difference in someone’s pain management or skin concerns, and building relationships and guiding wellness goals that create loyal clientele.
WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT?
My proudest accomplishments are all the times that I have reached down and pulled up fellow colleagues by encouraging and educating them and other service providers to help them be successful. Also, creating positive spaces for growth and stepping back and watching the progress happen.
WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU MOST ABOUT WORKING IN THE SPA INDUSTRY?
What has surprised me the most is the growth in technology, the direction of touchless therapies that have developed from the pandemic, and how much people are investing in a healthy lifestyle.
WHERE DO YOU THINK THE INDUSTRY IS HEADING?
The industry has been focusing on whole health and preventative care. People want to look and feel better. Infrared and red-light therapy, flotation, cryotherapy, IV and intramuscular therapies, and hyperbaric chambers are creating segways for optimum health.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SKINCARE INGREDIENT?
My favorite skincare ingredient is lactic acid. It is used for a broad spectrum of benefits, such as smoothing skin, treating age spots, cleaning pores, and controlling acne.
WHAT POSITIONS HAVE YOU WORKED IN THAT YOU FEEL HAVE BEEN MOST INFLUENTIAL TO YOUR CAREER?
I have done bodywork and massage therapy for 18 years, and over that time, I have developed regimens for improving guests’ overall day-to day health and comfort. Some of my clients have been receiving services from me for many years. I have built relationships and networked with others that created pathways to other opportunities and places.
WAS THERE A TIME YOU HAD TO MAKE A DECISION IN YOUR CAREER THAT ENDED UP CHANGING YOUR DESTINY?
There was a time that I was working on a large spa rebuild, and the work demands and expectations did not align with my professionalism and integrity. I believe you need to really know your skillset, self-worth, and not veer away from your intuition or character. At the time, I believed there were other options that would receive and benefit from my experience and be a better fit for me and my career goals. Redirecting is not always a failure, but an opportunity to engage in a more positive work environment. Life-balance and work environment must be part of the success equation.
IF YOU COULD WORK IN ANY OTHER PROFESSION IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
If I had to choose a different career path, it would have to be connected to my biochemistry background. I am trying to develop a utility patent that would improve the flow and help with time management for treatment rooms. I have many more ideas that I would like to develop.
HOW WOULD YOU SUM UP YOUR PERSONAL PHILOSOPHY?
Balance is key to success; a good idea is a good idea, no matter where it comes from; it is better to be kind than right; don’t take yourself so seriously; and walk on the sunny side of the street.
HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR TIME AWAY FROM WORK?
I love to golf, go boating, watch polo, and entertain friends. I live in wine country, so exploring is a must.
WHAT ARE YOUR THREE GREATEST PRIORITIES IN LIFE?
My priorities are personal health, always learning something new, and staying grounded in my faith and extended family.
WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED?
Be willing to put yourself out there, even if it is uncomfortable. Keep your eye on the goal, and measure success along the way.