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NJ Spotlight – La Belle Vie Salon and Spa

Back to school is such a big transition for both kids and their parents.  Even though it inevitably happens every year, the onset of the new school year still seems to catch us by surprise.  Yes, it’s a lot on the kids but it’s a lot on the parents too, between balancing all the kids activities, helping out with homework, playing therapist for any social issues, aside from our own career and parental duties.

I can’t stress enough how important it is, to make self care a priority  – so when I recently went to La Belle Vie Salon and Spa in Bloomfield, NJ, it was the perfect time for some “me” time.     I wanted to make sure my “cup was full” so that I had enough to “give back and share with others” as they say.

As soon as I walked in, I was welcomed by a stunning woman with platinum blond hair that looked so chic against her all black ensemble.  This was Nonna, the owner of La Belle Vie.  I looked around and I could see stylists cutting hair, others blow-drying and styling.  It was the perfect set for pampering.  But Nonna showed me upstairs where it was quiet and perfect for spa services.  Nonna is a Licensed Esthetician and I’ve heard so many great things about the transformation she’s done on people’s skin.  But on this day, I went for a massage.

Upstairs had several rooms for different services.  The guest area where we change is cozy and relaxing.  Classical piano played on the speakers.  There was a nice waiting area where you could relax.  Nonna had an assortment of pastries and champagne waiting which was such a nice treat.  She gave me a tour of the changing room where you had personal lockers to leave your items, they had every toiletry that you might possibly need beautifully laid out on the countertops.  They even have steam showers for you to use as you wish.

I had a massage by Derek who I heard is the best of the best.  He was very professional of course, and was very good about asking whether the pressure was ok.  That’s so important because I’ve had  massages where I cringed the whole time because it too strong.  He was great to chat with about kids and such and after, I finally just let myself fully experience my massage.  It was so amazing and I honestly didn’t want it to be done when it was done.

Afterwards I got to chat with Nonna and hear her story.  The Russian beauty immigrated here 26 years ago and actually has a Master’s degree in Music  (Theory and History of Classical Music).  She loves playing the piano.  She became an esthetician and opened a salon in Montclair  – defying the odds. She opened it at a time when the market wasn’t too hot but when you have a following, you have a following.  Her customers remained loyal and she was able to stay in business.  When the opportunity for her current location opened up, she took it.  La Belle Vie is a great stand alone building that is so easy to get to and has ample parking spaces in its lot.

Nonna told me about some of the things they’ve used the upstairs for and they’ve done pampering parties for bridal parties where the girls would alternate between massages and facials for a day of pampering before the big day.  They also do couple’s massages and more.

Overall my experience was exceptional.  Derek was very very good and Nonna was the perfect host.  She was so hospitable.  So much so that when I complimented her beautiful necklace, she literally took it off and gave it to me.  It was such a special gift and I never take it off.

Go treat yourself to a back to school treat since and see their impeccable services and hospitality firsthand!  They even have a special treat for all of you guys.  La Belle Vie is offering 15% off your first treatment with Promo code: KAREN15 ! Hope you get in some “me” time!