Tiffanny Golston has been in the spa and beauty industry for more than two decades. She has led spas and salons at world-renowned properties, including the Wynn Las Vegas and the Arizona Biltmore (Phoenix), and served as executive director of spa and wellness for The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. Most recently, she was named spa director at The Rittenhouse Spa & Club (Philadelphia). Learn more about Golston, 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?
I had a very indirect path into the health and beauty industry. I’ve always loved the industry, but my first job was actually the Army. Even in the military, I would always read up on the latest beauty trends and practice on my friends and family. Once I got out of the Army, my heart led me to cosmetology school and then to salons on the Las Vegas strip.
WHAT ARE THE MOST CHALLENGING AND REWARDING PARTS OF BEING IN THE SPA INDUSTRY?
Health and wellness is an industry that is constantly evolving. The changes in what is considered healthy or beautiful are constant. I think staying on top of the trends and marrying the best and newest with the timeless and classic can sometimes be a challenge, but being able to evolve with the industry that I love is very rewarding.
WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT?
From a professional standpoint, I’m so very proud to be able to come to work every day and create memorable experiences for our guests. There are not many professions where you get to be the best part of someone’s day every day.
WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU MOST ABOUT WORKING IN THE SPA INDUSTRY?
I’m not sure why, but the community has surprised me. The spa industry is a small close-knit community of professional caretakers. When I have questions or need advice, the community of other spa directors across the country are a phone call away. I’ve had the opportunity to travel around the world and meet kind and interesting people that are just as passionate about this industry as I am.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SKINCARE INGREDIENT?
I’m a self-professed product junkie so I love all things beauty, but my current obsessions are hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. I have very oily skin, but I’m also noticing signs of aging. This combination keeps me hydrated and helps with plumping and brightness.
WHERE DO YOU THINK THE INDUSTRY IS HEADING?
The pandemic left an indelible mark on our industry and forced us to be innovative and creative with our offerings while keeping safety, self-care, and accessibility in the forefront. The conversations around self-care have shifted and our guests consider it more of a necessity now instead of a luxury. With that shift, I believe the industry is moving to a more holistic wellness approach. It’s no longer just about offering a nice service, but also offering classes, food and beverage options, retail products, and virtual selections that they can access from home that are all health- and wellness-centric.
WHAT POSITIONS HAVE YOU WORKED IN THAT YOU FEEL HAVE BEEN MOST INFLUENTIAL TO YOUR CAREER?
Over the last 20-plus years, my career has given me the opportunity to lead spas around the country, including The Ritz-Carlton Dallas, Las Colinas (Irving, TX); the Arizona Biltmore (Phoenix); the Wynn Las Vegas; and The Rittenhouse Spa & Club, which have each played an integral part in building my spa and wellness expertise.
WAS THERE A TIME YOU HAD TO MAKE A DECISION IN YOUR CAREER THAT ENDED UP CHANGING YOUR DESTINY?
Early in my career, I was a service provider, and a circumstance in my salon presented me with an opportunity to go into a leadership role. I struggled with the decision because I loved my clients and actually being a provider, but that one decision to go into management changed my entire career trajectory. I’m so grateful for that opportunity.
HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR TIME AWAY FROM WORK?
My close friends and family would tell you that I am extremely introverted, so I spend my time away from work reading, journaling, and practicing yoga. Philadelphia is a new city for me, so I’m also enjoying exploring the city and taking in all of the culture and history that this city has to offer.
IF YOU COULD WORK IN ANY OTHER PROFESSION IN THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
I think I’d still find a way to do something hospitality-focused. I love the travel and hospitality industry, and getting to work with people who love to serve is such a rewarding field.
HOW WOULD YOU SUM UP YOUR PERSONAL PHILOSOPHY?
I strongly believe in the transformative power of spa experiences. To me, the spa is not just a place for relaxation, but a sanctuary where our guests have the privilege to embark on a journey of renewal and self-discovery.
WHAT ARE YOUR THREE GREATEST PRIORITIES IN LIFE?
Balance is my highest priority. Life can present challenges, obstacles, and opportunities, but I think the constant goal is maintaining balance regardless of the ever-changing list of demands. If I had to list three, I’d say quality time with family, quiet time for myself, and checking in on the needs of my team.
WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED?
It sounds cliche, but the best advice I’ve ever received is to be myself. It’s easier said than done, but when you learn who you are and remain in your authenticity, you find your tribe and that is an amazing feeling.