UK Spa Association holds annual summer networking event

The UK Spa Association held its annual summer event at Pennyhill Park on July 17. Drawing delegates from the across the UK, attendees included spa managers and directors, owners and industry suppliers.

The event began with an intimate summer drinks gathering on the terrace sponsored by Shared Beauty Secrets.

The following morning attendees gathered to hear keynote speaker Fabienne Lindholm discuss how to empower wellness leaders in cultivating selfcare.

The author and executive coach delivered a lively session that included a group singalong, thought proving messages and a challenge to ‘walk the walk’ when delivering wellness.

“Prioritising selfcare, empowering oneself and fostering a positive work environment through mindfulness practices, self-confidence and creativity are essential,” she said.

Two workshops were offered in the morning (and repeated after lunch).

Tabitha James-Kraan, founder of the eponymous haircare range, talked about how to create a sustainable brand which incorporates wellness and selfcare at its heart.

Mark Smith, founder of Kalm Horizons, a mindfulness-based wellbeing company, discussed the art of stillness.

The session included a half-hour mindfulness immersion with simple breathwork and aromatherapy inhalations.

The workshops were well received with positive comments from delegates.

Throughout the day, attendees joined tours of the spa at Pennyhill Park with spa director  Charlene Phipp and her team.

Exhibitors at the event included Sothys, Germaine de Capuccini, InBody, Trybe, JK Wellness, Scrummi, Temple Spa and Shared Beauty Secrets.

“Our events are run by a very small board of volunteers, who also are juggling full time jobs themselves,” said Abi Selby, chair, UK Spa Association.

“But what comes across in these events is the shared passion, a genuine desire to give our industry a voice and to bring people together in a safe and welcoming environment that doesn’t need too much commitment to be out of the office for long periods of time.”

The association has some exciting plans for the future including another snaphot of the industry looking at salaries and careers.

“There is still much work to do for the Association, but with regional spa leader meet ups being planned to start in September and more insights and surveys being carried out and shared amongst those that want it,” said Selby.

“It really does feel that the Association is starting to fulfil its true function of being the authoritative voice that is uniting the industry.”

The UKSA’s autumn networking event will take place at Armathwaite House in the Lake District on Wednesday, November, 20. Reserve your space HERE