The spa can sound like a mystical land to the unacquainted (and it is!). As with trying anything for the first time, it helps to have a bit of guidance beforehand.
This checklist will ensure the best experience for rookies and veterans alike:
1. Find out ahead of time what to expect. This may be the most important step. The more you are informed about what you’ll experience, the better prepared you can be. Surprises can be nice, but we prefer not to receive them at the spa (unless they’re, you know, chocolate or something).
Inform the spa receptionist when you’re coming and what kind of treatment you’ll receive. Ask for a brief rundown of what will happen and what you should do to prepare, if anything. 
2. Get a good night’s sleep. Though it may be nice to fall asleep during a massage, it’s even nicer to be awake for the whole thing. A spot of coffee - not too much - may also enhance the experience.
3. Shower, shave and apply some makeup if you like. You won’t be expected to be red carpet ready, but if you feel better when you’re made up, go for it. If not for your own sake, showering is common courtesy to your esthetician (cleanliness is good!). And shaving - if you shave - makes skin treatments smoother. Literally.
4. Pack. Anticipate what you’d like to do before re-entering the real world. Would you like to shampoo, condition and style your hair? Apply makeup? Get dressed for your next appointment? Most spas come fully stocked with much of what you’ll need to put yourself back together, but call ahead to find out what’s available.
5. Eat, but not too much. Ever lain down on your belly with a stomach full of food? It’s not pleasant. Eat enough so that your tummy doesn’t rumble, but keep it light.
Coming in to visit Burke Williams Spa with a gift card? Congratulations! Someone loves you. After your fabulous experience, pay the love forward by giving one ofour gift cards to someone who’s special to you.
