Almost as soon as the doors were open for business at the new La La Spa in Knutsford, Cheshire Life’s Rebekka O’Grady was being pampered and preened
La La Spa is one of the newest boutique salons to open in Cheshire. It’s situated in the centre of Knutsford yet it’s a calm retreat and feels a world away from the hustle and bustle outside.
La La Spa is owned by Madeleine Sowerby, who after five years as a marketing professional decided to set up her own business. ‘I wanted something for myself. I was in a stressful, male-orientated environment and the hours didn’t work for me with my two-year-old daughter. The beauty industry was a natural progression; I’ve always loved it as a client.’
Madeleine hopes La La Spa is an ideal balance between a day spa and a high street salon. The boutique-style salon oozes luxury and is fresh and welcoming to those just passing by on King Street. ‘I want every person who walks through the door to have a relaxed, five star experience. Here you can be yourself and just feel comfortable and unwind – nothing is too much trouble.’
I decided to test out the La La Spa package, which promises to be the ‘very best in specialised pampering and skincare’. Julie, the spa manager, took me to a treatment room and began with the ‘ultimate relaxation treatment’: a back, neck, shoulder and head massage along with a tailor-made Dermalogica facial. The massage was divine, and the aromatic Dermalogica stress relief treatment oil soothed my senses. The calming scents of sandalwood, lavender and orange got to work and I slipped into total relaxation.
The Dermalogica facial began with a Face Mapping skin analysis, which reveals your skin condition so that bespoke products can be used. I really enjoyed the Daily Microfoliant exfoliation, which along with purifying botantical mixers infused into sponges and steam towels, made my skin soft and smooth. A Skin Hydrating and MultiVitamin Power Recovery Masque followed. Due to the exfoliation opening my pores the vitamins seemed to penetrate my skin and it was left feeling plump and moisturised. An eyebrow wax and shape finished off the first part of my package.
Emerging from the treatment room rejuvenated, the final part of my package was a Jessica Geleration manicure and pedicure. Natalie, deputy spa manager, took over at this point. After a relaxing foot cleanse and massage, I picked a lovely coral polish – perfect for my impending holiday to Greece! The gel polish, which I also had on my fingers, is guaranteed to last up to three weeks with an incredible shine.
Prior to my manicure, Madeleine ordered some lunch for me from the neighbouring Knutsford Wine Bar. This was a nice touch and lunch will feature in selected La La Spa packages. Washed down with a glass of chilled Prosecco, it was a perfect end to a perfect day...attentive, relaxing and luxurious. But there was a most unexpected surprise just before I left: Jason Orange from Take That stepped into the salon to say ‘hi’ to Madeleine. He was so friendly and chatted to me and other clients. Amazing!
