What 13 Years as a Spa Owner Taught Me About Balance, Wellness + Creating a Space Like Citron

This May marks 13 years since I opened the doors to our spa—and honestly, it’s been quite the journey. There has been lots of growth, lessons learned, and so much heart, soul, and passion that have gone into building citron. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or just recently discovered us, I wanted to share a little back-story and behind-the-scenes of what has helped shape the spa.

From a Dream to a Wellness Haven

When I opened Citron in May of 2013, I had one major intention: to create a calming, welcoming space where people could slow down, feel cared for, and deeply relax and rejuvenate. That vision kept me going through the years, especially during the tough early years—it wasn’t easy starting a business without formal business background, while working full-time in the treatment room.

I didn’t have my business degree (yet), so everything I learned was through hands-on experience. I was the esthetician, front desk, marketing team, and manager all in one. And I still loved it—even when it was hard—because I believed in what we were creating.

But the roots of my story go back even further. I left high school late in my junior year, earned my GED, and went straight to esthetics school. Years later, while running the spa and raising a family, I went back to school and earned an official degree in business. That moment was so meaningful to me—not just professionally, but personally. It reminded me that growth isn’t always a straight path, and you’re never too far along to keep learning.

Two years into owning the spa, I became a mom to twins. Balancing motherhood and running a business taught me to get really clear on my priorities. That time reshaped everything—from how I worked to how I cared for myself to be the best mom I could, without burning out. It was a turning point in how I thought about wellness, for myself and for others.

What We’ve Learned About Healthy Beauty + Healing

In the early years, our treatments were focused primarily on skin care and relaxation. But as I continued growing—personally and professionally—I developed a renewed focus on wellness and health as my top priority and realized how important it was for others. I was seeing the same patterns that I had seen in myself, in our guests: stress, burnout, inflammation, and also, chronic skin conditions that just wouldn’t clear up with products alone. I realized that to truly help people find balance, we needed to go deeper and focus on both an inner and outer approach.

That realization led me to become a certified health coach. And when I brought that knowledge back into the spa, we started weaving in more intentional conversations and education around wellness, digestion, sleep, stress, and nourishment—because those things are skin care.

True beauty isn’t just topical—it’s internal, emotional, and energetic- a radiance that comes from inside and out.

This is when our philosophy at citron evolved into a truly holistic approach to healthy beauty and overall wellness.

Now, we treat the skin from the inside out and create experiences that honor the whole person. It’s why people come to us not just for a facial or massage, but to feel rejuvenated again- mentally, emotionally, and physically.

That shift has been one of the most important milestones in our 13-year journey.

Redefining What Success Looks Like

After more than a decade in this industry, I’ve realized success comes in many forms and is largely based on mindset.

1. Retention Is the Real Secret

When I first started, I was naturally focused on attracting new clients, but also, real growth comes from providing an incredible experience and making people feel valued and supported that they want to come back.

We’re a boutique spa by design. That means we can offer more personalized care. From warm neck rolls when you walk in, to custom aromatherapy and hand-blended local herbal teas, we pay attention to the small details that truly make you feel special and cared for.

We also offer a lifestyle membership that makes it easier for our guests to prioritize their own wellness. And I love hearing how regular monthly visits have helped people feel more restored, more energized, less stressed, and overall rejuvenated.

2. Pricing with Integrity Helps Everyone

This lesson took me a while. I used to undercharge, thinking it was more generous or accessible—but in the end, it just made it harder to provide the level of care I believed in.

Now, our pricing reflects the time, energy, value, and intention that goes into every service. We don’t nickel-and-dime. Things like LED light therapy, peels, steamed towels, hot stones, or a wellness elixir after your treatment—those are included, because they’re part of the experience we believe in. And this approach allows us to take care of our team, too.

3. The Best Marketing Is Still Word of Mouth

Some of our longest-standing guests found us through a friend who said, “You have to try this place.” And honestly, that kind of trust means everything. I just love hearing that when a new guest visits for the first time.

We’ve built relationships in our local community that go beyond services—we’ve partnered with yoga studios and small businesses we truly admire. It’s those authentic connections that have helped us grow more than any ad campaign ever could.

What I’ve Learned About Balance + Well-Being

Once I started to realize that trying to do everything myself was burning me out, I began making the changes in my business that would support both my own health and the health of the business.

4. Rest and Self-Care Is Productive

I used to think rest was a bit of an afterthought and I didn’t have a regular weekly self-care calendar that supported my wellness. Now I understand it’s something you need to prioritize so that you can have the vitality needed to give to others, my family, and the business—without burning out.

Creating better boundaries around my time changes everything. Not only do I feel better when I respect this approach—I am a better leader (and mom), because of it.

5. Our Team Is Everything

Learning to delegate and trust others was one of the hardest but most rewarding parts of this journey. Our team at citron brings so much skill, care, and passion to every guest interaction. I’m deeply proud of the training, culture, and vision we’ve built—and even more proud of the way our team brings it to life.

6. Energy Is Contagious

How I feel when I walk into the spa affects everyone. That’s why I’ve committed to nurturing my own well-being, too. Morning breathwork, long walks with my husband and our dog, nourishing meals, journaling, movement—I make space for these rituals because they help me show up calm, clear, and present. That’s not just good for me—it ripples out to the entire spa (and my home).

What’s Next: A New Chapter at Citron Grove

This year, we’re not just celebrating 13 years—we’re expanding in an additional direction. I’m launching Citron Grove, an education space created for spa professionals who want to build a healthy business and life.

While Citron Grove is rooted in professional training for spa owners and estheticians, I’ll also be offering courses on self-care, wellness, and holistic living. Because whether you’re serving others or supporting yourself, I believe the same things matter: clear systems, strong values, and a deep commitment to well-being.

If you’ve ever been curious about what goes into creating a spa like citron—or you’re someone who loves personal development and intentional healthy living—I’d love for you to follow along.

Thank You for Being a Part of This Story

To our guests, our team, our community—thank you. Your trust and support have meant the world to me and have truly shaped this journey. Citron wouldn’t be what it is without you.

With gratitude,

ChristinaFounder of Citron Spa + Citron Grove Academy