For two decades, Spavia has redefined what a day spa can be—elevating every touchpoint with a customized, resort-inspired experience that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. What started as one location in Colorado has blossomed into a national brand with a deeply personal impact. This milestone wouldn’t be possible without the passionate, purpose-driven franchisees who have brought Spavia into the heart of their communities.
As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we’re taking a moment to recognize the incredible people who make up our franchise family—those who believe in wellness as a way of life, and who are delivering excellence, compassion, and care every single day.
A Calling Rooted in Purpose
At the heart of every Spavia location is a mission that resonates far beyond the treatment room. We’re not just offering massages, facials, or body treatments—we’re creating deeply restorative experiences that guests can’t live without. Franchisees are drawn to Spavia for its soul: the commitment to give back, the emphasis on emotional and physical wellbeing, and a brand ethos that prioritizes purpose over transaction.
Many of our owners joined Spavia from completely different industries, seeking a new chapter aligned with their values. They saw in Spavia not just a business opportunity, but a meaningful path toward improving lives.
“When I first embarked on opening a day spa, I was drawn to Spavia's mission ‘to change the world one guest at a time’ and found its vision ‘to offer an experience our guests can't live without’ deeply resonant and in alignment with my personal values.”
— Stephanie Michel
“After 30 years in public and private sector roles, I found myself in a Spavia in Denver and said, ‘This is the business I want to bring home.’”
— Nivin Elgohary
“I joined the Spavia Day Spa team as a franchisee because the brand is focused on making a difference one guest at a time, and I wanted to help them achieve that mission.”
— Carrie Dorger
Creating Spaces That Truly Make a Difference
Spavia’s spa environments are intentionally crafted to feel like sanctuaries—from the soothing music and heated neck pillows to the thoughtful amenities in our retreat rooms. We call it affordable luxury with purpose, and it’s one of our core differentiators. Our guests aren’t just escaping the chaos of daily life; they’re entering a place of true transformation, where personalized treatments are designed to meet their specific needs.
Franchisees take immense pride in bringing this retreat experience to their neighborhoods. They see firsthand the emotional impact of Spavia’s thoughtful design and guest-first approach—and how these elements build loyalty, trust, and community connection.
“The personal satisfaction gained from being part of Spavia is that we are making a difference in the lives of those who choose to come to our spa. Whether for emotional, physical, or mental support, we are here to provide nurturing, corrective or therapeutic relief—many times setting people on a path, a journey which culminates in dramatically positive results. There lies great satisfaction in this act of doing good for humanity as a business if you will. All this aligns with my DNA and the need to do good. Life is short.”
— Paul Groshko
“Spavia is like a neighborhood oasis! We stand out with the same amenities as a vacation resort... The combination of a compassionate team, relaxing retreat rooms, and exceptional treatments creates a uniquely rejuvenating experience.”
— Stephanie Michel
“We want to provide a place where everyone can find an escape from the stress of our daily lives. Spavia is that escape for our body and soul.”
— Merirae Tackett
“Spavia truly sets itself apart because of the emphasis on the elevated experience – from spa robes and slippers to the relaxing retreat areas, warm neck pillows and soothing environment, we are looking forward to offering this exceptional guest experience to the Estero community.”
— Mark Chandley
Supporting Teams, Supporting Dreams
One of Spavia’s most meaningful differentiators is how we empower our team members to thrive—personally and professionally. Our franchisees are not only supporting their guests’ journeys;
they’re mentoring licensed specialists, building inclusive teams, and providing long-term career opportunities in wellness.
With ongoing education, advanced certifications, and new treatment launches, our therapists and estheticians constantly grow their skills and elevate the care they deliver. For franchisees, there’s incredible purpose in supporting that journey and seeing the ripple effect of empowerment and excellence.
“I love my Spavia Austin Landing team and seeing how joyful they are from providing self-care to our guests.”
— Carrie Dorger
“I measure the success of Spavia by seeing my team continuing their education, buying a new car, getting married — milestone moments that show this business is helping people grow.”
— Nivin Elgohary
“We’ve built a team of over 30 employees to provide our guests their wellness needs in Lincoln Park and West Loop. Providing this job in a spa environment... helps those who are not made for clinical or transactional-based places. It prepares them for a greater future of giving their best.”
— Paul Groshko
“Building a culture of relaxation and well-being with my team… I'm confident by the looks on our guests' faces that Spavia is a place where they can unwind and escape whatever stressors they may be battling.”
— Stephanie Michel
“I feel pride and purpose in financially supporting 30 team members and providing a place they love to work.”
— Leslie Martin
Rooted in Community, Fueled by Connection
Spavia is designed to be a local business with heart, and our franchisees embody that with intention. From charitable giving through Spavia Cares, to school partnerships, wellness pop-ups, and local fundraisers, our owners embrace the opportunity to serve and connect.
This strong community presence—combined with a national brand known for consistency and care—builds trust that can’t be bought. And within the Spavia system itself, a network of support, collaboration, and genuine friendship thrives between franchisees.
“We strongly believe in the philosophy of giving back to your community, providing an outstanding experience for both guests and team, and offering something unique.”
— Merirae Tackett
“Culture is key for us, and we are excited to build an empowering community.”
— Loni Richards
“Choosing Spavia Day Spa as my second career is still a decision I have no regrets after 10 years. It was exciting to bring Spavia into my community where I had lived for over 20 years and how my community has embraced Spavia is beyond any expectations.”
— Leslie Martin
With Deepest Gratitude to Our Franchisees
As we reflect on 20 years of Spavia, we are filled with heartfelt appreciation for our franchisees. Your leadership, care, and commitment have shaped this brand into what it is today—a trusted name in wellness, a safe space for self-care, and a movement that has impacted thousands of lives.
You have taken a vision born in Colorado and made it resonate in every corner of the country. Every massage delivered with care, every moment of stillness created in a retreat room, every member nurtured through their wellness journey—these experiences exist because of you. And they matter.
Here’s to all you’ve made possible—and all that lies ahead. We are honored to be on this journey with you.
Looking Ahead
Spavia’s 20-year legacy is just the beginning. As the wellness industry continues to expand, Spavia remains a beacon for those seeking a business model that balances profitability with purpose. A new generation of franchisees is stepping forward—driven by passion for wellness, love of hospitality, and a desire to serve their communities with heart.
These entrepreneurs are choosing Spavia not just because of the luxurious spa environment or resort-inspired treatments—but because of the brand’s reputation for excellence, its guest-first philosophy, and its deeply rooted commitment to franchisee support and training.
“I’ve visited spas across the country, but Spavia always stood out. As a loyal member of the Spavia Greenwood Village location, this was my place for a complete mental and physical detox. When the opportunity arose to bring this experience to others, I knew it was the perfect fit for my next chapter.”
— Marisa Rybar
“When weighing franchising opportunities, I found myself always putting Spavia at the top of my list. Spavia truly values its relationships with each guest and ensures that every interaction or service provided is an unforgettable experience.”
— Anne McCormick
“The industry experience and insight that Spavia’s National Leadership team has is unmatched. Spavia’s in-depth and supportive franchisee training process is not something you often find when researching franchises. From the customizable treatments to the guest experience, we truly felt taken care of.”
— Cherif Mrad
"Spavia is more than a day spa—it’s a community. I can’t wait to bring the experience to Overland Park.”
— Kim Kovar
“When researching business ownership opportunities within the wellness space, Spavia stood out immediately. From the moment we met with the Spavia team, it was clear they were committed to dotting their I’s and crossing their T’s.”
— Matt Kroupa
With a brand built on trust, innovation, and genuine care, Spavia continues to attract entrepreneurs who believe in something more: a future where business is about human connection and making lives better. Whether you’re a long-time franchisee or just starting your journey, we are deeply grateful for your role in this growing legacy.
Together, we’ll continue to change lives—one treatment, one guest, one spa at a time.
Ready to be part of the next chapter of Spavia?
Join the movement and bring wellness to life in your community.
Schedule your discovery call today.
