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Local Insight Interview with Pebble Sanctuary

An Interview with Pebble Sanctuary by Local Insight

Pebble’s new premises in Bucklersbury, Hitchin are a revelation, stepping through the door feels as if you have been transported into the foyer of a charming and elegant hotel.

I was pleased to meet Geraldine Ping and Catriona Brown the owners who have personally overseen the project. I was interested in finding out why they had made the decision to open a second shop in Hitchin. They told me that after having their shop in the Churchyard for four years they realised they needed more space. The decision was in response to their customers need for suitable surroundings and a degree of privacy to accommodate their increasing range of treatments for men and women.

Having been given a guided tour by Geraldine I was very impressed with what they have achieved, turning a beautiful Georgian town house formerly used as offices into the aptly named Sanctuary. The attention to detail and sympathetic renovation of this wonderful building with its original arched windows transports you away from the stresses of modern life. The muted colour palette used through out the three floors co-ordinated wall papers and sumptuous soft furnishings instantly provide a truly relaxing environment. There is disabled access and facilities for refreshing drinks on the ground floor.

The treatment rooms both single and dual are so comfortable you could be in a boutique hotel. I was surprised to see the dual room but Geraldine explained that having the two massage beds side by side meant that couples, mothers and daughters and best friends could share the experience together. I experienced a hot lava shell back massage a new treatment using smooth tiger clam shells from the Philippines, which was wonderful. The soft lighting, gentle background music and Danielle’s magic touch with the naturally self heating shells used in conjunction with hydrating oils found the knots in my shoulders and smoothed them out beautifully. I found it a really relaxing experience I think I might have drifted off to sleep and was very grateful to be given plenty of time after the massage before leaving.

This was just one of the seven different Lava massages. A range of massages including Aromatherapy, Hot Pebble, Indian Head and Swedish, The Pebble treatment menu has evolved due to the extra space and facilities. Along with a range of manicures, pedicures, waxing, eyelash tinting and extensions they provide reflexology, chiropody, and a comprehensive menu for waxing, electrolysis and spray tanning.

The third floor with its lovely views over the roof tops of Hitchin will be used mainly as a training area to accommodate the training academy, full details  for training courses can be obtained by phoning 01462 458885 and www.pebble-trainingacademy.com

All the manicurists and therapists at Pebble Sanctuary are fully trained to the minimum NVQ 3 standard with a policy of continued personal development. This is achieved by ongoing training the ultimate being a degree in beauty.

My thanks to Geraldine and Catriona for a very enjoyable visit.

By Marty Coe

Local Insight