Mix & Mingle

It can be isolating just to associate with other green spa owners and enthusiasts. But there's a whole eco-friendly world out there, and even if much of it doesn't share the same infrastructure and focus that your business does, there's a lot to learn. Look in your area for seminars on environmentally sound practices and materials; you never know who you might meet and what unique expertise they can provide.

Plus, check out sustainable trade shows. Many of them are starting to showcase the personal care and beauty perspective. One such example is All Things Organic, which takes place in Chicago June 16-18. While it's staged by the Organic Trade Association (www.ota.com), the Day Spa Association (DSA, www.dayspaassociation.com) will also have a presence there. On Wednesday, June 17, Eric Light of the Strawberry Hill Group and a DSA advisory board member will host a session for spa owners looking to capture the eco-friendly market. DSA will also have a booth in the health and wellness section on the show floor—which will likely contain a number of interesting vendors for those who want to greeen their facilities.

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