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Balance Spa & Fitness Palmer House
Categories: Beauty and Spas Day Spas Beauty and Spas Massage Day Spas, Massage [Edit]
17 E Monroe St5th Fl
(between State St & Wabash Ave)
Chicago, IL 60603
Neighborhood: The Loop
(312) 422-1336
Yelp Deals
$59 for a spa treatment of your choice (up to $110 value) at Balance Spa & Fitness Palmer House
- Choose from one of three spa treatments - 50 minute Swedish Massage, 50 minute Murad Facial or Essential Manicure and Pedicure
- Valid for new customers on any service; returning customers on any service or service you have not had in the past 6 month
- By phone appointment only
- $59 for a spa treatment of your choice (up to $110 value) promotion lasts for 1 year from date of purchase. For another 4 years after that period, your Certificate is redeemable for the amount you paid. Limit 1 Certificate purchase per person for own use, may buy multiple as gifts. One person may not redeem more than 1 Certificate during the promotion period. Must be used in single visit. By appointment only, 24 hour cancellation notice or Certificate is forfeited. Tax and Gratuity not included. Not to be combined with other vouchers, coupons or discounts. Subject to the Yelp Deals General Terms.
- Reg. Price $110
- Discount 46%
- Savings $51
- Nearest Transit:
-
Monroe-red (Red Line)
Adams/wabash (Brown Line, Green Line, Orange Line, Pink Line, Purple Line)
Madison/wabash (Brown Line, Green Line, Orange Line, Pink Line, Purple Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 9 am - 8 pm
Sun 9 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Valet
- Accepts Insurance:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
31 reviews for Balance Spa & Fitness Palmer House
31 reviews in English
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Review from Christina S.
Chicago, IL
5/16/2012
I used the groupon for a massage, facial, & pedi.
Mary did my facial first, and it was excellent. she was fun to talk to and my skin felt noticeably smoother & softer for days after.
i think my massage therapist's name was carly, but i could be completely wrong. the
massage was awesome, one of the best ive ever had for sure. perfect pressure & super relaxing.
my nail tech was sarah and she did a great job on my feet & was also fun to talk to.
all in all, it was a great, relaxing, time & i highly recommend the balance spa. -
Review from Belle L.
Chicago, IL
5/11/2012
Nail Technician (Sarah) and Massage Therapist (Sherrie) are great! Sarah has good attention to details and pedicure is 1 hour. Sherrie has a unique technique that feels like the flow of dancing.
As a spa...Balance Spa is NOT design and setup as one:
- Spa services on 5th Floor, whereas the steam shower and sauna (comes with Spa services) are on 8th Floor
- No robes or slippers available on 8th floor
- Small Sauna with Hot Ceramic Walls: cleaning is sporatic. Leftover towel and plastic cup with water in Sauna at 2 pm.
- Super Basic Kohler Steam Shower: at least 5 mins to start steaming, by the time you are finish with shower, the steam is just beginning.
- Pool is small. Change to warm pool instead (aka jacuzzi)? Layout and setup looks run down.
- Infused water only available in Spa area, NO cups available beside the water jug
- Mani/Pedi area was designed for space and privacy, but the fabric divider does not work. You CAN still see and hear another client across and beside you.
- If you are interested in 'other' services from the paperwork checklist, don't bother....nobody reads it nor show/inform you the services you are interested.
Balance Spa is designed for guest who goes IN and OUT of the facilities, NOT relaxation.
For a newly renovated Palmer Hilton...it's disappointing that the architects who designed the Spa and Workout area does not know the logistics of how these area functions and works. It's amazing how a small establishment and less capital would have a 'better' steam shower for $6k.
CAUTION: Double check tipping as 15 is easily construed from 15% to $15.00 (that equals to 30%). -
Review from Clare M.
Chicago, IL
3/30/2012
Spent a weekend at the Palmer House for a girls weekend with my surrogate mother & sister. We had massages which were outstanding. I loved my experience, the space is zen, relaxing, and everything you think a spa should be.
The massage therapist I had was wonderful! I highly recommend this place. -
Review from Nadia S.
3/18/2012
I sum my rating up to a 2 because the people who work here and the services were very nice and were a 4.... but the setup and the amenities are definitely a 1.
The good-- the spa folks were very accommodating to our needs and allowed us to change our times for our services, which was really nice. My pedicure from Adriane was amazinggg- she worked her butt off and omg the massage she gave was amazing.. my feet are SO smooth right now (It was a little odd though that they use Soft Soap to clean the pedicure bath and utensils.. I'm pretty sure thats not antibacterial....) My swedish massage was very relaxing, but def not the best I've ever had.
The bad-- their spa services are done on the 4th floor.... yet their pool and jacuzzi are on the 8th floor. No one offered me a robe or slippers, had to ask for it but the sweet massage therapist helped us carry them up to the 8th floor. The pool looks so much bigger in the pics, but it was smaller in person. The jacuzzi reeeeeked of chlorine... took a while to get used to. Oh and we couldn't use the jacuzzi for a good while since there were 3 year olds jumping around in it using it as a kiddie pool.... super relaxing :/ The locker room was TINY... no benches near the lockers... 2 hair dryers that barely worked... one shower was broken... No vanity area... The freakin locker room in Lifetime Fitness beats this spa. And hello where the heck is the relaxation room??? No where to sit and chill and read a magazine or something in between services... so awkward.
The people who work in the spa acknowledged the strange setup of their spa and kept apologizing.... I mean, its not their fault that the setup is as such... it's the crummy hotel's fault.
I would love to come back and get a pedicure from Adriane but I hate this hotel and can never bring myself to come back (see my other review for this hotel)
If you do come here, I recommend taking a train or taxi bc u will not get ur parking validated and u may or may not get valet parking bc they are so unreliable at this hotel. -
Review from Kelsey B.
Chicago, IL
4/16/2012
Just had a fabulous Swedish massage from John - he was wonderful! He really worked my shoulders which is where I had a ton of knots, he always asked if the pressure was okay. I would recommend to friends and will be back to see him again! Very relaxing and wonderful!
Cant say the same for the mani-pedi I got... it was mediocre at best. Left polish on my hands and didn't clean up my cuticles fully. The bubbly was tasty and a bonus.
Really enjoyed the quiet space, it was a great 'me time' experience. -
Review from Mary K.
Chicago, IL
4/3/2012
My sister and I went today for a belated birthday gift for myself and a sisters "bonding" day. We went with a Groupon for a massage, facial, and pedicure. It's difficult to think of a better spa experience we have had. We are frequent visitors to spas but even with a voucher, the services were second to none. The massages were amazing (thanks David and Nicole) , the facials were absolutely perfect (thanks Mary) , and the pedicure was fantastic (thanks Yuelma).
These folks know how to utilize vouchers. We booked our next appointment as soon as we got home. While my sister doesn't live in the state, I am definitely becoming a regular here.
Check this place out. You will not be disappointed. Thank you for a wonderful experience. -
Review from Joyce C.
Morton Grove, IL
1/20/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
More like a 3.5 star review. Got a Yelp deal here and got a facial during lunch one day. The spa itself is nice and modern looking, with bright pink neon lights that illuminate the beams which support the place. Service was prompt, the room seemed nice and clean and my esthetician was pleasant. They also used Murad products which was nice.
I dunno, nothing really wowed me about this place and I did not see a huge difference in my skin after the facial, but I would go back. Not sure if I needed more sessions or what. They were quick and efficient which I appreciated, and they did not try to push products on me like other places I'd been to. And it's conveniently located near my work. -
Review from Carleen S.
Reno, NV
4/3/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I had a facial from a girl "Mary" who was very inexperienced. She wore gloves which was strange and in between her application of cleanser or masques she would sit behind me and breathe. I am an esthetician and you are supposed to be touching the clients the whole time. Neck massage,arm massage, foot massage whatever. You don't pay $110 for Someone to wash your face.
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Review from Bree R.
Arlington, VA
11/15/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
The spa was a little hard to find since we were not staying at the hotel it resides in, but once we found it -everything was fabulous. The spa itself is modern, soothing, and the staff was extremely nice and helpful.
The room the massage was in was very modern, no frills sort of room.
Both my husband and I bought the yelp deal for a 55 minute massage - and both of us were very pleased with the massages we received. Personally, my masseuse used a perfect amount of oil, pressure, and rhythm. When I was done, my husband looked about as relaxed as I had ever seen him in my life.
If I lived in Chicago, I would certainly go back again - if I visit Chicago (or you are) then I would certainly go back again as well. -
Review from Kat C.
New York, NY
10/21/2011
My mom bought TravelZoo vouchers here, and she, my sisters, and I went the day before my wedding to get massages and express manis/pedis.
The three stars are a bit misleading, because if I could I would give a 4 or 5 for the massage, a 1 for the main/pedi, and a 3 or 4 for the ambiance/spa itself.
The massage was great. I've gotten massages from a number of places, and this was one of the better ones I've had. Very relaxing and perfect for the day before my wedding.
The mani/pedi process was fine. The woman who did mine was lovely and sweet, and the chairs are comfortable and spacious, so you don't feel like you're squeezed in next to people like at so many other places. When it was finished (Friday afternoon), my nails looked great. However, by the next morning, my fingernails looked terrible. They had already begun to chip, and the nail polish had oddly bubbled up so it was bumpy and strange looking. I've never seen such a bad manicure before. My mother's nails were also chipped and looked kind of pathetic. I actually ended up repainting my own nails right before the wedding because they looked so terrible -- I never paint my nails and am not very good at it, but everyone who saw them agreed they looked much better.
Go for a massage, but not for a mani/pedi. -
Review from Paulina N.
New Orleans, LA
9/28/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal 1 Check-in Here
As part of my relaxing vacation, I decided to get a facial with Yelp's deal of $59. Check-in was a breeze, although they didn't quite ask what deal we were using. I was confused for a bit until I mentioned it was from Yelp, and they reacted with a, "Oh! Ok, then that's all you needed to do." Anyway, moving along from the confusion.
Christine was very polite and informative. She said she doesn't speak during the session because that time is meant for the the client (us) to relax and unwind so she told me everything she was going to do before we got started.
The room had dim lighting, the table was quite comfortable, and the facial was amazing. Christine didn't go all out with the extractions because she feels that the effects are more harmful than good. Sounds good to me because I didn't want to walk out of there with my face falling to pieces. With the facial, Christine also gave arm, legs, and neck massages (she'll ask what kind of pressure you like before she begins). I was more than delighted because I believe I got more than what I bargained for, and she, in my opinion, knew what she was doing.
I left feeling great and extra relaxed. The only downside to coming out of a spa is that you're oily :(
Atmosphere 4 stars
Service 5 stars
Staff 5 stars -
Review from Adriana S.
Chicago, IL
2/22/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I got a facial here a few months ago and I was not impressed at all. The facilities are very nice and the location is great, but the facial was not good and I've had many in my day. I go mostly for extractions, and when I asked she declined saying she didn't "believe in extractions". It was relaxing and she was very nice, but I didn't feel that she was experienced, it didn't help my skin, and I would not go back for a facial.
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Review from Tara T.
Chicago, IL
1/5/2012
I tried this new spa about 6 months ago. First, it is just fun to go to the Palmer House so an easy, initial thumbs up for its location. On my first visit, I got both a facial and a massage. I can state that this was easily one of the best facials that I received. The technician was very knowledgeable. What I liked is that she was not overpushy to try to sell me additional products. She let me know what she was using, which was great. I tend to be more in the mood to purchase products when they are not rammed down my throat during the service. I thought my massage was pretty good. That is the reason I gave Balance four stars, instead of five.
On my second return, I took my mother for a girls outing when she came into town. I had the sugar scrub and my mother got a facial. She, too, gave very high praise for the facial she received. She was still commenting on the results days after! I enjoyed my sugar scrub - it was relaxing and also good for my skin. I felt good about the results immediately after but thought I would continue to notice more of a difference in the days afterwards.
The spa itself is beautifully modern and staffed with very friendly and knowledgeable employees.
This is a spa I will be returning to, even though I live in Northern Chicago. I can't say enough about their facials, specifically. -
Review from Sharon S.
7/15/2011
I bought a TravelZoo deal for $99 which included a facial and a deep tissue massage. When you enter the Palmer House, you have to take the elevator to the 4th floor and then walk up a short flight of stairs. At first I was confused and wasn't sure if the Balance Spa was actually the spa because I didn't see a sign, but it was. The desk area is really nice and well decorated, modern style. I really like it. It was my first time so I filled out some paperwork and was on my way.
I first started with my facial. VERY relaxing. I nearly fell asleep! Actually, I may have. I guess the only thing I didn't like about it was I didn't know what was going on. Other facials I've had, they would tell me what they're applying or why they're doing something in particular. I'm sure if I asked she would've told me but oh well. You get a great arm massage with your facial too. Quite soothing!
Next was my massage. I told her about the areas I was cramping in and she did her thing. Full body. At first it hurt but I knew I had been pretty tight in areas and ached in others. I just let her do her thing. I had told her about a bad pain in my right leg from running but I guess I should be going to a chiropractor masseuse instead to get that resolved. This was more for relaxation and relief of stress which it certainly did. The place was quite calming and peaceful. A great place to relax and get pampered, I'd highly suggest it!
They also offer pedicure and manicures. The only thing I'd complain about were the robes they provided to get from one room to the other. They were kind of rough. I was hoping for something that was quite soft. But other than give, give the place a try! They're quite new to Chicago! -
Review from Alma P.
8/22/2011
I was visiting Chicago and knew I was gonna need a day of relaxing so booked a massage and facial. I had purchased one of the travelzoo vouchers which was an amazing deal but admit I was a little worried about how good it would be for such a great price. Boy, was I proven wrong!
First off the spa is not a full service type which a jacuzzi, suana, etc. BUT it is a very nice day spa with a nice relaxing ambiance to it. They immediately took me to a private changing room to change into my robe and slippers.
Both services were very good and I was impressed with both the masseuse and the esthetician. They were both very professional and good at what they do.
I really enjoyed my experience here and would recommend to anyone who needs a little escape.
One little note.. it was a bit hard to find the spa cuz not all the elevators go to the 5th floor. I'd ask for assistance upon arriving instead of walking around lost like I did for awhile. lol -
Review from Tammy V.
Westwego, LA
9/14/2011
I purchased the $59 mani and pedi yelp deal. Making an appointment last minute for 3 people was no problem. Adrianne was doing my nails and she was great! The atmosphere was relaxing as well as very beautiful.
My only complaint would be that they require you to have a printed copy of the voucher, which states you can have a printed copy of the voucher or use your mobile phone to claim your deal. -
Review from Larry K.
Bolingbrook, IL
1/24/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Really good massage and a nice place
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Review from Helena H.
Chicago, IL
10/7/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
For last 10 years, I have been a regular spa-goer for massage. Having that said, I've been to MANY spas nationwide as well as internationally. I just came back from the Balance spa and had to write a review of my unbelievably horrible experience. To me, the quality of massage is the most important factor when rating a spa. Although the massage itself was not that bad, everything else was too horrible. I did not expect to get world-class spa experience, rather, basic amenities and etiquette from spa facility and staff. This is the place that seriously needs SPA 101. I am just not sure how other reviewers thought this place was good, or even okay.
1. Receptionist: Big No-No.
He was responsible for 60% of my experience. As a receptionist at a spa, you are responsible for greeting clients warmly, checking whether clients are new to the facility, then introducing the facility and any specific information useful to them during their visit. Take initiatives!
He was not even present at the desk when I walked in (had to shout a few times) and did not fulfill any of his responsibilities. His attitude was not someone who works at a spa, not to mention a receptionist. He was very awkward. I feel like I had to extract information out of him. At check out, he didn't know what to say and there was awkward silence for a minute or so. I was using a yelp coupon, which I mentioned when booking. So I said "do you need a coupon?".
2. Set-up
Before the treatment, I wanted to use the steam room. Apparently, it was located on a different floor. Fine. The receptionist handed me a robe and a slipper, but failed to initiate explaining the logistics of using the steam room and changing. It is, by any means, not a typical set up I have seen. The receptionist NEEDS TO provide information on how this works!!!!
The inside of the spa was not an exception - very client-unfriendly. The locker is inside of the treatment room, but not in the shower. ??? So do they expect clients to take a shower and come back to the treatment room? But what if the room is already occupied by the next appointment? Do they want us to bring our clothes and shoes to the shower and make them all steamy? I really don't understand this.
Facility, however, was nicely done: new and modern. But it was only 6 month old. What matters when everything else is not acceptable?
3. Lack of basics
- Bathroom did not have paper towels or wash cloth to wipe my hands on after washing.
- Shower did not have towels ready. I had to walk back to the treatment room and ask for towels.
- Masseuse was also not client-friendly: did not ask if I needed to use the bathroom prior to my treatment (for an hour treatment, you never know what clients need); did not offer water after massage (hydrating your body is absolutely necessary after intense muscle work). Mine did, but my husband's masseuse didn't. If you are not going to offer, have water ready for clients.
- Only a few staff members were left at the end of my session since it was 8 p.m. Everybody seemed busy cleaning up and rush home. Staff should prepare to go home after clients have left. I have never seen this at other spas after having been to evening massage sessions.
4. Massage and masseuse
Massage itself was not too bad. It was not the best I have, but acceptable, and she was pleasant.
Unless the manager steps up and improve the areas listed above, I am not sure how long it will last. I see that they have run a few deals for the first 6 months since their opening. Can it be because there are so much room for improvement? -
Review from li m.
Chicago, IL
10/19/2011
Bad spa & poor service!
I arrived at 9:30 AM for my 10:00 AM appointment. I checked in and sat in the open/exposed lobby area (IE., it does not have doors) which was very loud. The area was loud because a group was having conference activities in the area just outside of the spa lobby.
Around 9:40 AM the reception handed me a robe and slippers and said, "Since you are early you can change and go to the 8th floor for a steam." I declined his offer because I did not want to walk by the conference people and ride the hotel elevator in a robe!
At 10:01 AM, my esthetician, led me to a place to change my clothes. Since the small locking drawer was broken, she suggested that I carry my purse with me during my facial and massage.
The facial was average and the deep tissue massage, was the worst massage I have ever experienced in 25 years of going to the spa. -
Review from Angela W.
Merrillville, IN
2/19/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
My daughter and I used our voucher from yelp, and I scheduled our facials the day of and they were very accommodating. The atmosphere was very relaxing. I was treated like queen, and Kayla was very sweet, she gave me the best facial. My skin was absolutely beautiful.
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Review from Irene S.
Denver, CO
2/19/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Great spa. I had a facial through the Yelp deal and for the price, it was worth it. My aesthetician was very knowledgable and created a facial for my needs. The treatment room was very nice; large with high ceilings, something quite unusual for spa rooms. The pool was ok: small, old, not a fan. The gym is small but nice. I'd return to the spa if I stay at the Palmer house again.
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Review from Emily N.
Chicago, IL
12/1/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Secret Gem! I work right around the corner and didn't know that the Palmer House had a spa!!! OMG this place is amazing. By far one of the best spas, and facials I have had in the city. You have to go, seriouly you have to. I felt like my facial was being done by someone who works with the stars....and the best part. She didn't push any products on me. By the way did I mention the massage part of the facial amazing. I will be back here....a LOT!!!!
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Review from kelly h.
Chicago, IL
10/29/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
My first visit to the spa started off on the wrong foot. My appt was booked for the wrong day. After that was resolved, I came back the next day to use the travel zoo 50minute - massage and facial package. The massage was less than memorable relaxing somewhat, but not what you would expect from a spa. The atmosphere was strange the 8th floor is where guests can use the fitness and steam room. The treatment rooms are on the 5th floor, so its an odd set up. The facial was well done and thorough. Overall I felt better when i left, but it wasn't a typical spa experience.
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Review from ann s.
Chicago, IL
12/19/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
My spa experience was wonderful. I got to the appointment early, which did not upset the hostess or Masseuse. If fact I was taken earliy (not expected) and that was great. I explaint were I wanted the masseuse to Concentrate and was pleased with the attention and result. I will definiely be going again..
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Review from Leah F.
Mundelein, IL
7/19/2011
I purchased this as a Travel Zoo deal and got a massage and facial. Both were wonderful! The massage therapist asked if there were any target areas and was attentive and I was definitely relaxed. Good pressure and technique. The room was very nice and large which allowed for the massage therapist to move around the bed easily. After the massage I was taken to another room which was also very large and the technician gave me the best facial ever as well as neck arm and foot massage in between each stage. It was awesome.
We did not talk much but on the initial history form they ask you if you want information on products etc. so it is nice that they do not push things on you if you do not want. Both services were excellent and even though I live in the 'burbs I will make the trip back.
After I was able to shower in a wonderful shower room. There is not sauna that I am aware off but I was very happy just to shower in a lovely and roomy private shower and get ready for the rest of my day downtown. -
Review from Swapna P.
Chicago, IL
9/27/2011
After looking at the rest of the reviews of this spa, I'm really sad that I had a horrible experience. I had purchased a Travelzoo voucher for a massage and an express mani/pedi. It was a great price, so I was excited to use it. I had an appointment later on a Friday afternoon.
At first, the massage seemed great. The therapist was really nice, the room was large and comfortable, and the lotion/oil they used smelled delicious! I have really sore shoulders so I asked her to concentrate there. It was a little painful, but usually that happens for me because the muscles were so stiff. Little did I know that I would have bruising and tenderness for 3 days because so much pressure was used! After the massage, I was not offered a robe or a shower area even though I was covered in a thick layer of oil.
Then, I was taken over to the mani/pedi area. I don't care for the set up of the sofa/chairs for the pedicure at all! It is very difficult for someone short like me to sit comfortably while still keeping my feet in the tub. Also, there are no jets and no nice back massage from the chair, so it doesn't feel as relaxing. At this point, I had to remind people that I had a champagne coming because of my voucher. Fine, no biggie. My nail tech, Lisa, was less than satisfactory. Although I was getting an express mani/pedi, I was still expecting to get some sore of service. She basically slapped the file around on my nails and cut the cuticles from every other one. On my feet there was about three seconds of scrubbing. While the polish does look good, I still think I could have taken more care at home in the same amount of time. I am so glad I had a drink during the experience. Lisa just kept telling about how as soon as I was done she was going to zoom out of there to get home. Clearly my satisfaction was not a priority.
Since so many people had better experiences than I did, maybe Friday is just not the day to go? But, overall I don't think I would ever go back here. The level of service is just lacking, and that is what a spa should excel at. -
Review from Deidre H.
Chicago, IL
11/18/2011
I purchased a TravelZoo voucher here and went last night on my birthday. They have you wait until your treatment and then take you into the room. It would have been nice if there was a dressing room and you were able to get into your robe beforehand. I had a massage and facial. I started with the facial first. Mary did a great job. Very friendly and recommended a great SPF product. Then I had my massage. Let me tell you that I've had a fair share of massages before so I wasn't expecting anything different. But was I wrong. Kate Johnson did an unbelievable job. Probably one of the best massages I've ever had. I didn't need to give any direction. She just worked her magic. I would recommend her 100%!
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Review from Paige M.
Valparaiso, IN
11/6/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Had a Murad facial with a arm, neck and foot massage. Desk courteous, and services were great. Would difinitely be back. Should try while in town.
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Review from Cathy A.
Brooklyn, NY
10/6/2011
This is a comfortable place for the out-of-town visitor to rest and get some pampering! In town for my son's wedding, I was worried that having a strange salon do my hair and make-up could only end in disaster -- but I (happily) was totally mistaken. Jordyn Daniels listened to my requests and followed my lead in every way. I couldn't be happier with the result!
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Review from John B.
Chicago, IL
9/18/2011
Balance Spa is a very nice facility. My IT Band, hamstrings, and calves were extremely tight. I came in for a deep tissue massage with Kate. Kate was outstanding. She has great technique. She knows her stuff. She found all the problem areas. She adjusted her pressure and technique and found a way to get my muscles to release. I will definitely be back.
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Review from Kathy C.
Cambridge, MA
9/15/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I enjoyed my visit, though I was happy to have a Yelp coupon. I wouldn't have paid full price for the services. The staff was friendly and professional.
