Amid the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s important to take time for yourself. However, you want to see everyone important to you, too. How can you get it all done?
Why not host a pampering party for yourself and your best friends? You’ll get to enjoy some “you” time and mix and mingle simultaneously. Plus, you’ll look your glowing best when it’s time to attend other people’s soirees.
1. Create the Perfect Invitation
Before you can gather your supply list, you need to know who to expect. You can create homemade invitations that cover all the basics. Remember, this isn’t your typical party — so include specific directions for guests.
Do you have enough robes, for example, or will guests need to bring one? Even though your event centers on facials and other beauty treatments, you’ll also need to have some snacks. Ask your guests if they have any dietary restrictions so you can honor them. Make sure to choose a large-enough font that the fine print is legible.
2. Create an Uplifting Playlist
When you go to a day spa, you’ll hear the soft tones of soothing music. Recreate this mood by putting together a playlist. Look for artists like Deva Premal and Vive. You can also find spa playlists on services like Spotify.
3. Establish Ambiance
Is your pad in need of some TLC? You’ll want to give it a good cleaning before your event. Pay particular attention to the bathroom. Then, invest in some inexpensive soy-based or electric candles. Regular paraffin wax varieties can emit toxins into the air — which is not compatible with a spa day. Learn how to roll towels to create an elegant look before warming them in the oven or microwave. Scatter petals in foot baths for pedicures.
4. Make a Shopping List
Once you’ve received your RSVPs, it’s time to go shopping. Many of the supplies you’ll need can do double duty, so you won’t have to spend much cash. For example, you can use coconut oil as a moisturizer and as a base for a homemade exfoliating scrub.
Another way you can save money on your party is to put less of a focus on offering alcoholic drinks. Many holiday gatherings center on booze — which can make some guests uncomfortable. Offering nonalcoholic options, such as hot herbal tea, shows respect to all guests, including those who prefer to remain sober for any reason.
5. Mix up Your Supplies
The next step is mixing up your supplies. If you have some mason jars, you’re in luck. You can decorate them with holiday themes, and use them for homemade scrubs and lotions. You can make a mild exfoliant for your face with coconut oil and sugar. For rougher elbows and cracked heels, adding something harsher, like oatmeal, banishes the scaly-ness.
6. Start with Cleansing and Exfoliating
Before you can apply any treatments, you’ll want to start with a clean slate. Invite your guests to soak their hands and feet. You can use the bottom of storage bins for tubs to soften soles. When your spa day wraps up, you have handy containers for holding your holiday decorations. Relax and chitchat while you cleanse and exfoliate.
7. Pamper Your Face
Once you’re squeaky clean and shiny, you’ll want to get your face ready. Study up on how to do a facial at home so you feel savvy showing your friends the ropes. It’s better to leave techniques like pimple extractions to the professionals. However, a facial massage can eliminate tension and soften fine lines.
8. Tend to Fingers and Toes
No spa day is complete without a mani-pedi. To protect your nails and prevent yellowing, invest in all-natural polish for your digits. Plus, chemicals in traditional polish can enter your bloodstream through the nail bed. It’s easier to have someone else paint your nails — but you have plenty of friends to help.
9. Wrap It up With Full Body Relaxation
Finally, wind down your day by relaxing your body and mind. Find a relaxing yoga video on YouTube and do an impromptu class with your friends. Take as long as you like relaxing in savasana — this day is all about easing tension.
Pamper Yourself and Your Friends This Holiday
With a little bit of ingenuity, you can create the perfect spa day at home with friends. Spend quality time with your pals and feel fantastic this holiday season.
