Shawnda Brooks has 13 years of experience in the spa and wellness industry, serving as spa manager at Canyon Ranch (Lenox, MA), general manager at the Exhale Spa (Miami Beach, FL), and a national trainer and beauty advisor at Sothys USA. Most recently, she was pro moted from spa manager to spa director at the St. Regis Spa at The St. Regis Deer Valley (Park City, UT), where she brings an ability to foster a culture of excellence and service, as well as extensive knowledge of all treatments, services, and exceptional skincare products. Learn more about Brooks, her path to where she is today, and her thoughts on the future of spa and wellness.
WHAT WAS THE PATH THAT LED YOU INTO THE SPA INDUSTRY?
As my son was getting older, I realized that it was time to pursue what I was destined to do. I visited several massage schools and my excitement was palpable, so I knew that this was the right personal path.
WHAT ARE THE MOST CHALLENGING AND REWARDING PARTS OF BEING IN THE SPA INDUSTRY?
Leading a talented and creative spa team can be challenging, but the most rewarding thing is watching colleagues grow and develop their craft and share their knowledge with others.
WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT?
Building the spa team at The St. Regis Deer Valley is my proudest professional accomplishment. We have come a long way as a group and bonded over our mutual love for our spa and our passion for this profession and industry.
WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU MOST ABOUT WORKING IN THE SPA INDUSTRY?
How everyone is six degrees of separation from one another in the industry. I know leaders that I have worked for, and leaders that have worked for me, but now we all work together and support one another.
WHERE DO YOU THINK THE INDUSTRY IS HEADING?
Our industry is moving solidly into health and wellness, and treatments are no longer perceived as just a luxury anymore. I think we are headed toward spa treatments being covered by insurance and receiving tax deductions.
WHAT POSITIONS HAVE YOU WORKED IN THAT YOU FEEL HAVE BEEN MOST INFLUENTIAL TO YOUR CAREER?
I believe that every role has prepared me in some way. My military career gave me structure, discipline, and a strong work ethic. My massage and esthetic training have helped me to understand the needs of clients and the needs of our spa team.
HOW WOULD YOU SUM UP YOUR PERSONAL PHILOSOPHY?
Nothing is the end of the world. You can x or troubleshoot any issue that arises. You can recover from any setback. Just keep going.
HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR TIME AWAY FROM WORK?
I enjoy retail therapy the most. I can walk around a store for hours, looking for a beauty product or something that will make me feel like I treated myself.
WHAT ARE YOUR THREE GREATEST PRIORITIES IN LIFE?
Health, happiness, and family. My spiritual, physical, and mental health. My happiness found in work-life balance. And my family by blood and my family by bond.
WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED?
“Closed mouths don’t get fed.” I learned at an early age to speak up and advocate for myself. Now, I do the same for my friends and team members, when needed.