Throw a Spa Party!
I found this article today on http://www.ladiesblend.com and I just had to share it!
So you want to host a Spa Party?
Your Budget
How important is having a budget? Only one of the most important tasks, especially if you’re like most of us who need to keep our cash in check! For a successful party, every chic hostess should take into consideration her needs, wants and must haves, along with a reasonable dollar spending amount and the financial bankroll, to back it up. How many guests will you invite? Don't have a big budget? No worries, we will give you some fun, creative ideas that won't break the bank.
The Event Day
The next most important item on your to do list is figuring out precisely what will be included in your event. This is not too terribly hard to come up with since you already have your budget in place. However, there are several options, and choosing what will fit your needs can be a bit time consuming, so lets get started. There is something to be said for the fun it would be transforming and turning your home into a Spa for a day or evening.
Services to consider are full body massages, or spot massages, such as hands and feet, face and neck, arms and neck, check with a local licensed massage therapist for rates and availability.
Affordable creative ideas for your spa party
If your budget is not big and bulky, (and most of ours is not) I can assure you that you can still pull off an amazing spa-together time. Keep in mind, some of the most smashing parties have been thrown on a modest budget, you can do it!
Making homemade beauty recipes is all the rage these days, make them yourself before your guests arrive, or gather everyone in the kitchen to mix up countless concoctions. These are fresh, fun to make, and good for you, Now you can give each other facials, condition your hair, foot and hand scrubs and so much more. Split up into two groups, group one will put down foot soaks for everyone in-group two, then apply the beauty treatments you have made, then switch off. This is one of my favorite things to do, and budgets of all sizes have tremendous fun and meaningful bonding time too.
After you have decided what type of Spa Party, you will be having, make a schedule of events and pick the time of day or evening. Pick your party time carefully considering your guest’s schedules a head of time. This is sure to be the "can't miss" event; everyone is going to WANT to come to this party!
The Invitations
Send your invitations out 2-3 weeks in advance, and let your guests know what to expect so they can prepare appropriately. If you are crafty, you may like to make your own invitations, or for you computer savvy girls, making great looking invitations on the computer is a snap. A handwritten note inviting your guests is a thoughtful touch, but of course, you can also buy them.
The Menu
Keep it light. You don’t want your guests feeling overly full and uncomfortable, prepare fresh foods presented in a simple, beautiful fashion. Create an appealing setting for your food keeping it all together on one table, this makes it much easier to replenish, as needed.
Use linen tablecloths and napkins, please...no paper plates, plastic beverage bottles, plastic eating utensils, etc. TIP: Budget minded individuals-if in need, take a quick trip to your local dollar store, thrift sore, yard sales, etc., for these items. Don't worry about everything matching (example-dinner plates, silver, etc.), some of the most beautiful settings are done with mis-matched items.
The Bar
Serve Iced Teas and Fresh or Sparkling Waters in beautiful glass pitchers, with a dish full of lemon and lime slices and wedges. You may also like to serve select Wines, Champagne, Hot Herbal Teas, Fresh Juices or a Coffee Bar. Bring out your pretty teacups and glassware for this occasion.
Create Your Space(s)
Depending on how many guests you invite and what services you will be providing; transforming your home is another task to think about. Move furniture around to create open spaces. If you are having multiple professionals, use all the space you can. If people are having relaxing massages, you may want to include bedrooms in the plan along with all bathrooms. Be sure to have stacks of fresh clean towels, washcloths, soaps or gels.
Present your guests with a new freshly laundered Spa Robe Gift as they enter your party, or ask that everyone bring their own robe and slippers.
Have at least one vase full of fresh flowers and more if possible. If your party is themed or around the Holiday season, you may like to decorate; a touch of sparkle here and there creates a festive and warm feeling.
Dim the Lights. Light candles even if the event is during the day, the glow of a candle(s) relays warmth and beauty.
Set pretty dishes of potpourri in all rooms being used.
Potpourri Recipe
1 cup pink rose petals
1/2 cup red rose petals
1/2 cup white rose petals
1/4 cup chamomile fs
1/2 cup crushed statice (blue or white)
1/4 cup eucalyptus leaves
1/4 cup oakmoss
20 drops rose oil
Gently combine petals and leaves in a large bowl. Scatter drops of rose oil over the mixture using an eyedropper. Stir gently. Place mixture in a brown paper bag lined with wax paper. Fold and seal the bag with a paper clip and leave in a dry, dark, cool place for 2 weeks. Every other day, stir the contents gently to blend and disperse ingredients and scents. Place in glass bowls or candy dishes. Top with small white or pink rose buds.
Select relaxing/nature music CD’s, and have beautiful music flowing from beginning to end.
Take this opportunity to lavish and spoil your guests, and I don't mean by spending a lot of money on them, but by showing them how much you care by doing the little things that truly shine through. Make a toast to them and let them know how wholeheartedly happy you are that they could all come together to share and experience this time with you. Make this one afternoon or evening a time to remember. Relax, unwind and above all, enjoy!
Gifts for the Guests
Handmade Beauty Gifts for your Guests are a great personal touch at the end of the Spa Day. Or pick a special moment during your event to hand each guest their gift. Wrap up individual gifts in pretty papers or snuggle items together in a spa or fabric bag.
Great Gift Ideas
Bath Teas
Purchase quality organic Dried Herbs from your local Herb Shop to make Relaxing and Beautiful Bath Teas.
Ingredients
Lavender Buds
Rose Petals
Chamomile Flowers
Lemon Balm
Pre-cut sheer tulle circles
Raffia or Ribbon
Essential Oils-optional
Directions
In a large bowl, mix all the dried herbs, and a few drops Essential Oils if you prefer. Put a scoop of the mixed herbs in the center of each tulle circle, gather the tulle up around the herbs snugly, and tie with a piece of raffia or ribbon. You can include a homemade tag for your Bath Tea with directions to toss in the tub and enjoy a relaxing stress-less bath.
Cranberry Lip Gloss
Every girl should have a pot of yummy lip gloss with her at all times! Protect sensitive lips from the drying elements with this simple yet rich lip balm. Delightful to wear alone or on top of your lipstick for extra shine!
Ingredients
1 tablespoon sweet almond oil
10 fresh cranberries
1 teaspoon honey
1 drop of vitamin E oil
Directions
Mix all the ingredients together in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for a couple of minutes or until the mixture just begins to boil. (Bowl may also be heated in a pan of water on a stove top). Stir well and gently crush the berries. Cool mixture for five minutes and then strain through a fine sieve to remove all the fruit pieces. Stir again and set aside to cool completely. When cool, transfer into a small portable plastic container or tin. Apply a small amount onto your lips and remember to smile!
Lavender Sachets
Fill small muslin drawstring bags with dried lavender buds; make a little tag and your done. You may like to make several for each guest, do this by making four sachets for each guest, stack them on top of each other and secure with a pretty ribbon or raffia. You could also put them in a clear cello bag with a ribbon bow. Use your imagination and have fun with the gifts!
Raspberry Vanilla Bubble Bath
8 ounces unscented liquid soap
2 ounces distilled water
8 drops vanilla fragrance oil
6 drops raspberry frangrance oil
2 drops red food coloring
Mix together and store in a container. Pour in running bath water to use.
Here's another article if you're interested: http://www.savvy-spa.com/wellness-articles/plan-a-home-spa-party/
Has anyone ever done this? Are you thinking about it now? 
Throw a Spa Party!
I found this article today on http://www.ladiesblend.com and I just had to share it!
So you want to host a Spa Party?
Your Budget
How important is having a budget? Only one of the most important tasks, especially if you’re like most of us who need to keep our cash in check! For a successful party, every chic hostess should take into consideration her needs, wants and must haves, along with a reasonable dollar spending amount and the financial bankroll, to back it up. How many guests will you invite? Don't have a big budget? No worries, we will give you some fun, creative ideas that won't break the bank.
The Event Day
The next most important item on your to do list is figuring out precisely what will be included in your event. This is not too terribly hard to come up with since you already have your budget in place. However, there are several options, and choosing what will fit your needs can be a bit time consuming, so lets get started. There is something to be said for the fun it would be transforming and turning your home into a Spa for a day or evening.
Services to consider are full body massages, or spot massages, such as hands and feet, face and neck, arms and neck, check with a local licensed massage therapist for rates and availability.
Affordable creative ideas for your spa party
If your budget is not big and bulky, (and most of ours is not) I can assure you that you can still pull off an amazing spa-together time. Keep in mind, some of the most smashing parties have been thrown on a modest budget, you can do it!
Making homemade beauty recipes is all the rage these days, make them yourself before your guests arrive, or gather everyone in the kitchen to mix up countless concoctions. These are fresh, fun to make, and good for you, Now you can give each other facials, condition your hair, foot and hand scrubs and so much more. Split up into two groups, group one will put down foot soaks for everyone in-group two, then apply the beauty treatments you have made, then switch off. This is one of my favorite things to do, and budgets of all sizes have tremendous fun and meaningful bonding time too.
After you have decided what type of Spa Party, you will be having, make a schedule of events and pick the time of day or evening. Pick your party time carefully considering your guest’s schedules a head of time. This is sure to be the "can't miss" event; everyone is going to WANT to come to this party!
The Invitations
Send your invitations out 2-3 weeks in advance, and let your guests know what to expect so they can prepare appropriately. If you are crafty, you may like to make your own invitations, or for you computer savvy girls, making great looking invitations on the computer is a snap. A handwritten note inviting your guests is a thoughtful touch, but of course, you can also buy them.
The Menu
Keep it light. You don’t want your guests feeling overly full and uncomfortable, prepare fresh foods presented in a simple, beautiful fashion. Create an appealing setting for your food keeping it all together on one table, this makes it much easier to replenish, as needed.
Use linen tablecloths and napkins, please...no paper plates, plastic beverage bottles, plastic eating utensils, etc. TIP: Budget minded individuals-if in need, take a quick trip to your local dollar store, thrift sore, yard sales, etc., for these items. Don't worry about everything matching (example-dinner plates, silver, etc.), some of the most beautiful settings are done with mis-matched items.
The Bar
Serve Iced Teas and Fresh or Sparkling Waters in beautiful glass pitchers, with a dish full of lemon and lime slices and wedges. You may also like to serve select Wines, Champagne, Hot Herbal Teas, Fresh Juices or a Coffee Bar. Bring out your pretty teacups and glassware for this occasion.
Create Your Space(s)
Depending on how many guests you invite and what services you will be providing; transforming your home is another task to think about. Move furniture around to create open spaces. If you are having multiple professionals, use all the space you can. If people are having relaxing massages, you may want to include bedrooms in the plan along with all bathrooms. Be sure to have stacks of fresh clean towels, washcloths, soaps or gels.
Present your guests with a new freshly laundered Spa Robe Gift as they enter your party, or ask that everyone bring their own robe and slippers.
Have at least one vase full of fresh flowers and more if possible. If your party is themed or around the Holiday season, you may like to decorate; a touch of sparkle here and there creates a festive and warm feeling.
Dim the Lights. Light candles even if the event is during the day, the glow of a candle(s) relays warmth and beauty.
Set pretty dishes of potpourri in all rooms being used.
Potpourri Recipe
1 cup pink rose petals
1/2 cup red rose petals
1/2 cup white rose petals
1/4 cup chamomile fs
1/2 cup crushed statice (blue or white)
1/4 cup eucalyptus leaves
1/4 cup oakmoss
20 drops rose oil
Gently combine petals and leaves in a large bowl. Scatter drops of rose oil over the mixture using an eyedropper. Stir gently. Place mixture in a brown paper bag lined with wax paper. Fold and seal the bag with a paper clip and leave in a dry, dark, cool place for 2 weeks. Every other day, stir the contents gently to blend and disperse ingredients and scents. Place in glass bowls or candy dishes. Top with small white or pink rose buds.
Select relaxing/nature music CD’s, and have beautiful music flowing from beginning to end.
Take this opportunity to lavish and spoil your guests, and I don't mean by spending a lot of money on them, but by showing them how much you care by doing the little things that truly shine through. Make a toast to them and let them know how wholeheartedly happy you are that they could all come together to share and experience this time with you. Make this one afternoon or evening a time to remember. Relax, unwind and above all, enjoy!
Gifts for the Guests
Handmade Beauty Gifts for your Guests are a great personal touch at the end of the Spa Day. Or pick a special moment during your event to hand each guest their gift. Wrap up individual gifts in pretty papers or snuggle items together in a spa or fabric bag.
Great Gift Ideas
Bath Teas
Purchase quality organic Dried Herbs from your local Herb Shop to make Relaxing and Beautiful Bath Teas.
Ingredients
Lavender Buds
Rose Petals
Chamomile Flowers
Lemon Balm
Pre-cut sheer tulle circles
Raffia or Ribbon
Essential Oils-optional
Directions
In a large bowl, mix all the dried herbs, and a few drops Essential Oils if you prefer. Put a scoop of the mixed herbs in the center of each tulle circle, gather the tulle up around the herbs snugly, and tie with a piece of raffia or ribbon. You can include a homemade tag for your Bath Tea with directions to toss in the tub and enjoy a relaxing stress-less bath.
Cranberry Lip Gloss
Every girl should have a pot of yummy lip gloss with her at all times! Protect sensitive lips from the drying elements with this simple yet rich lip balm. Delightful to wear alone or on top of your lipstick for extra shine!
Ingredients
1 tablespoon sweet almond oil
10 fresh cranberries
1 teaspoon honey
1 drop of vitamin E oil
Directions
Mix all the ingredients together in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for a couple of minutes or until the mixture just begins to boil. (Bowl may also be heated in a pan of water on a stove top). Stir well and gently crush the berries. Cool mixture for five minutes and then strain through a fine sieve to remove all the fruit pieces. Stir again and set aside to cool completely. When cool, transfer into a small portable plastic container or tin. Apply a small amount onto your lips and remember to smile!
Lavender Sachets
Fill small muslin drawstring bags with dried lavender buds; make a little tag and your done. You may like to make several for each guest, do this by making four sachets for each guest, stack them on top of each other and secure with a pretty ribbon or raffia. You could also put them in a clear cello bag with a ribbon bow. Use your imagination and have fun with the gifts!
Raspberry Vanilla Bubble Bath
8 ounces unscented liquid soap
2 ounces distilled water
8 drops vanilla fragrance oil
6 drops raspberry frangrance oil
2 drops red food coloring
Mix together and store in a container. Pour in running bath water to use.
Here's another article if you're interested: http://www.savvy-spa.com/wellness-articles/plan-a-home-spa-party/
Has anyone ever done this? Are you thinking about it now?
Do-It-Yourself Beauty