[Images: Courtesy of Tobie Andrew’s Photography]Beau Monde Spa and Boutique was founded in 1988 and touted as Wichita’s first day spa. The original 2,500-square-foot space has since grown to over 9,500 square feet, with 11 treatment rooms, 10 nail stations, a hair salon, separate men’s and women’s locker rooms, relaxation rooms and a retail boutique. Current owner Michele Wheeler took over in 2004, and three years later she opened a second location nearby. In May 2018, the spa celebrated its 30- year anniversary as a local destination for mother-daughter outings, birthday and bridal parties, and a diverse range of clients seeking serenity.
PHOTOS: Spa Hopping – Dorchester Spa, London
Signature Service
The Stress Rescue Body Treatment (75 min./$100-$115) starts with a 60-minute massage that can be tailored three ways: relaxing, firm or deep. Then the guest receives a soothing scalp massage and essential oil-infused steam therapy within a personal canopy. “The steam canopy is perfect for spas that don’t have access to a steam room: It’s private and convenient, and once the client is on the table they can relax and steam at the same time,” notes Wheeler. Beau Monde also offers a variety of add-ons for face and body. One popular winter option is the Yon-Ka Paris Hot Oil Body Treatment (30 min./$45), which features a full-body dry brushing followed by a warm essential oil application, heated blankets and a scalp rub.
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Noteworthy
Beau Monde employs 36 women with a combined 200 years of experience, and Wheeler describes her management style as flexible and positive. “I’m at the spa in some capacity every day, whether it’s laundry duty, changing light bulbs or working the front desk. Whatever my employees need, I do my best to deliver,” she says. “I’ve owned the spa for 14 years, and 15 of my team members have been with me the entire time—we have very little turnover.” For guests, the spa runs a successful loyalty program: After paying a one-time fee, clients enrolled in Beau Monde Rewards earn points for every dollar they spend, in addition to receiving a birthday gift, extra discounts on daily specials, and 20 percent off retail on the 20th of every month. “We currently have 1,600 Rewards members,” reports Wheeler. “The incentives allow clients to try more products—and have significantly boosted our skincare and makeup sales!”
—by Laura Waldon
