Writer Erin Meyering interviewed Merirae Tackett, owner of Spavia Reno, which recently opened at The Summit.
Q: Why do you think the Reno area needed a Spavia and how might it be different than other spas in the area?
A: Reno needed Spavia to provide a luxury spa experience at an affordable price. We are unique in this way. Our Spavia guest experience mirrors that which you may find in a bigger city. And, since we are the Biggest Little City we certainly should have, and offer to our residents and visitors a bigger city, higher quality experience.
Q: What are you hoping for out of the Summit location?
A: The Summit is really the premier shopping experience in Reno. Spavia offers premier services and experience to our guest. It really was the perfect marriage. We are a top quality spa experience which compliments the retailers at the Summit and cater to the same clientele. This really has now become a destination where one can shop, dine, enjoy a movie and treat themselves to a relaxing and therapeutic spa.
Q: Have you lived in Reno for awhile or did you move here to open Spavia?
A: I have been here since 1984, Randy Tackett since 1978 and Christine since 1993. This is our home for all three of us. We love this area and never wish to leave it.
Q: How does Spavia offer overall wellness for its clients and what’s important about people taking their health seriously?
A: Not only does massage feel great, it’s actually considered alternative medicine and frequently used to treat a variety of ailments. For example, Mayo Clinic reports that studies show the benefits of massage include reduction of stress, pain and muscle tension…With the increased demands on everyone in today’s society it’s easy to forget about our own health. By taking a few moments of quiet time, away from technology, and in a calming environment we may be able to help reduce tension and even blood pressure which in itself may provide personal rejuvenation and energy.
Additionally, the largest organ of our body is the skin. Regular facials with one of our skincare specialists is a great way to maintain a healthy organ, which is vital as it is the largest barrier against infection. As we age or spend time in our dry environment, the skin also becomes drier and irritated. The professional exfoliation and moisturization of the skin will allow for healthier skin to grow and breath which helps to protect our skin from the elements of our harsh environment. As an added bonus, the skin may even appear more youthful and feel great too.
Q: What’s your favorite treatment?
A: Personally, I love a deep tissue massage. I carry a lot of stress in my shoulders and neck and love it when our massage therapist gets in deep and helps that muscle release. My shoulders will feel as though they have dropped from around my ears to where they should have been all along!
Q: What’s been the overall reaction so far to the spa?
A: Everyone has been so very supportive. So many of our guests have said they’ve been waiting for something just like this and are excited we are here. They love our atmosphere and service offerings. What makes me even more excited is to hear how our guests love our team. It’s all about caring for people and I believe that’s what people are experiencing when they come to Spavia at the Summit.
Q: Do you plan on expanding to another [Spavia] location at all?
A: Absolutely. I have two great business partners, Randy Tackett and Christine Brame and our plan has been from the very beginning to open our first location at the Summit. We are planning on many more Spavia locations in Nevada.
