People

Looking good! Michelle's beauty spa reopens after lockdown following a £15,000 makeover

Michelle Dougan, Owner, Arcadia Beauty Spa at the Riviera Hotel in Bournemouth. Picture: Dorset Biz News.

By Staff Reporter [email protected]

Published: August 21, 2020 | Updated: 21st August 2020

Beauty therapist Michelle Dougan made the most of the lockdown and says her business has emerged stronger than ever with a fresh new look.

The 31-year-old is owner of the Arcadia Beauty Spa at the family-owned Riviera Hotel in Alum Chine, Bournemouth.

After months of lockdown she reopened this month after a £15,000 makeover which included a refurbishment and a new range of beauty products.

The revamp included splitting the dual treatment room into two in order to maintain the current one metre guidelines.

New beauty products include l’Organiq from Dorchester and Westbourne’s Simone Thomas Wellbeing range.

Michelle, who did her four-year apprenticeship in beauty therapy with Esporta, said the lockdown had provided a welcome respite to review her business.

She said: “I sat down and evaluated how I should spend the time.

“I had a new website and developed new beauty treatments.

“I also got to grips with things like spreadsheets.

“I feel really on top of things now.”

Special procedures have been brought in to ensure clients receiving treatments such as massages, body treatments and now facials can have total peace of mind.

Alongside the physical revamp, Michelle has added additional cleaning times between each and every client, as well as ensuring there is plenty of PPE in place for staff and clients.

The business, which employs three women, is also expanding with the addition of another member of staff.

Michelle, who has been in the beauty business for 14 years, said: “After months of feeling like the forgotten industry, it is just great to be able to reopen by following the government guidelines and regulations.

“We’re busier than before the lockdown and, with our new treatment rooms, it feels so good to be back again.”

Arcadia Beauty Spa opened at the Riviera Hotel in January 2016.

Special pamper sessions can be booked combining afternoon tea with a massage and other beauty treatments.

Latest Posts

‘Such a special milestone’ says fourth-gen owner Kevin as retailer hits 60 years with Bang & Olufsen

Entrepreneur's six tips for success include don't stop learning & find interests that generate income

Bournemouth-based law firm celebrates qualification of six new solicitors

“I’m all shook up” says Lorraine as her new book on music legend Elvis receives glowing reviews

High-flyer! 'Terrified' chamber boss to conquer his fear of heights and leap 10,000 feet from a plane

All Not for Profit Stories »

Latest Posts

Savvy Navvy signs distributor down under as ‘Google Maps for boats’ reaches Aussie & NZ shores

New initiative supporting Dorset innovators is hitting its STRIDE after successful launch event

Greendale Construction embarks on 34-week works at the historic Dorchester Corn Exchange

‘See you at the bar!’ say Chickpea trio as they snap up Shaftesbury pub – their first in Dorset

Final beam fitted as construction on Bournemouth and Poole College’s learning facilities chugs along

All Latest News »