Shave and a haircut -and a pedicure and a facial and a massage...
As an "almost lifetime" resident of the Heights area, I have seen businesses come and go, but rarely have I had the opportunity to witness the birth, development, evolution, and reinvention of a family-owned-and-operated full service facility. This is exactly the case in Quintana's Barber and Dream Spa which recently expanded into an exquisitely renovated three-story facility at 2200 South Taylor Road in Cleveland Heights.
Starting life in the Cedar-Fairmount neighborhood above the Mad Greek in 2000, Dream Spa was the realization of the dream of owner Dawn Mongelluzzi and her dedicated team of professional nail technicians, aestheticians and massage therapists. In this beautifully renovated office space, Dawn and her staff created the welcoming environment that earned them several well-deserved FutureHeights awards as well as national acclaim from Salon Today and Nails Magazines. As her business grew, Dawn married well-known Cleveland Heights barber Alex Quintana, who renovated part of the Taylor Road facility, hung an attractive barbershop pole, and opened Quintana's Barber Shop in 2003.
With both businesses in need of further expansion, Dawn and Alex decided to invest in the future of our community by completely renovating their entire facility from top to bottom, and in February of this year moved all services into Quintana's Barber and Dream Spa. The result is the stunning transformation of an older Cleveland Heights home into an upscale, distinctive sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.
The first floor provides a comfortable, relaxing living/waiting room and the barber shop. The decor is a lovely blend of traditional and classic chic which is reflected in over-stuffed chairs, gleaming dark woodwork, and rich, masculine slate accents throughout. The second floor is dedicated to manicure and pedicure stations featuring the latest in relaxing foot baths and even a toe nail dryer. Here the floor plan is open and bright, allowing natural light to enhance the soft, relaxed but upscale ambience. There is also a cozy massage/facial parlor in the charming sun room. The third floor loft space has been transformed into an intimate, private massage room that can accommodate one or two people for individual or couples massage. Even the front porch offers a pair of comfortable chairs for relaxation and a cup of coffee before or after receiving treatments from the vast menu of pampering options.
On a recent Saturday morning, I had the opportunity to sample four distinctly different services and each one delighted my senses and left me feeling completely rejuvenated. Starting with a hot stone pedicure, I was treated to a warming foot bath in brand new, ultra-hygienic foot baths that utilize a new, sanitary liner for each client. This was followed by a gentle foot massage with hot stones. The usual pedicure routine was next, and the lavender-scented paraffin treatment left my feet baby-soft and sandal-ready. The finishing touch was a new nail color from an exotic Indian collection.
Following my pedicure, I was escorted to the sun room where the massage table was warmed and welcoming. My first treatment was a Clarifying Back Treatment that included elements of a facial and a massage on my back. Not knowing what to expect, I was delighted with the entire process. Not only did the procedure leave my skin feeling totally refreshed, but the gentle massage that followed worked out the residue of a busy work week. I relaxed on the warm, comfortable table under a heated down comforter until it was time for my Deep Cleansing Facial. This was a very special experience of cleansing, clarifying and moisturizing, and my skin, which had suffered the effects of a cold, windy winter, was absolutely glowing. My final service of the day was a Women's Manicure, and again, the experience was meticulous, professional and satisfying.
The new salon and spa is also the perfect place to host a party for women of all ages. During a recent visit the staff was preparing for an after-hours "Princess Party" during which eight six-year-old girls received Dreamette Manicures and Pedicures, and the birthday princess went home wearing her Dream Spa tiara. I have personally hosted two pre-wedding private spa parties for friends and family. Every detail has been expertly handled from manicures and pedicures for everyone to mini chair massages to ease the pre-wedding tensions for all. And, the best part of having a dream party is that the set up and clean up are all performed by the friendly and professional staff, leaving the hostess and guests free to enjoy one another and the pampering they receive.
This review would not be complete if I did not mention the outstanding staff. I have personally enjoyed services from almost everyone on the spa staff, and I can honestly report that they are all highly skilled, professional, courteous and delightful. This is due in no small part to the fact that many of these individuals have worked together for over ten years, some are siblings, and all seem to convey a genuine spirit of camaraderie and teamwork that Dawn and Alex work so hard to foster. In fact, I have referred so many people that my usual recommendation includes a description of a visit as being just like spending time with one's girlfriends.
Quintana's Barber and Dream Spa offers convenient hours, online booking, special package pricing and gift certificates. Ample free parking is readily available, and the best part is that Alex and Dawn are dedicated to building and growing their business in Cleveland Heights, their neighborhood of choice. Do yourself or someone you care about a favor and make an appointment by calling 321-7889 or visiting their web sites at either www.dreamspainc.com or www.QuintanasBarberShop.com.
Denise San Antonio Zeman loves Northeast Ohio and all the people who are reinvesting in its renaissance.
