by Melissa Mellott, spadefined.com

Brides want to be radiant and relaxed on their big day.

Brides happily take on the responsibility of planning their big day.  The process is exhilarating and exciting, from trying on wedding dresses to cake tasting, choosing colors, flowers, bridesmaids, and locations. As the wedding day gets closer, stress levels do tend to increase, and many brides may start to show signs of their anxiety—the Bridezilla moment all brides fear.  So what’s a bride to do?
She must find a quiet space to regroup and indulge in much-needed R&R.  Five new California spas can lend a hand in the final preparation for the wedding by providing pampering, calmness, and time away from the demands of planning a wedding.  Spa treatments such as facials and body scrubs give the bride and her bridal party flawless, glowing skin.  In addition, spas offer manicures, pedicures, make-up application, and salon services.  Equally important is the rejuvenation and relaxation that a spa offers through massages, thermal baths, and body wraps.  Whether brides are seeking solitude at a quaint cottage spa or a large resort spa with all of the amenities, these five new California spas, each unique in character, offer a smooth transition from Bridezilla to Radiant Bride.

Judging from the majestic mountain view from the spa lounge area, just beyond the outside pool and original Japanese Pagoda, one would never guess The Spa is five minutes from Highway 101.  Just North of Los Angeles, the resort and spa are immaculate and adorned throughout with orchids and a strong Eastern influence.  The spa menu reflects Eastern philosophy with offerings such as the Shiatsu and Tai treatments. The Holistic Journey, the Signature Treatment at Four Seasons Westlake, offers total body renewal. This 80-minute treatment includes body exfoliation, followed by a luxurious rain Vichy shower (seven-headed shower), which relaxes tense muscles. The second half of the journey includes a full body massage concentrating on the scalp and feet. 

P.S. Make sure to arrive early to indulge in the spa amenities: whirlpool, sauna, eucalyptus steam room, 13-headed rain shower, and lounge area with fresh juice and fruit.

fourseasons.com/westlakevillage
(818) 575-3000

Located in the new Meritage Resort in Napa Valley, Spa Terra opened in April 2007.  The spa is built in the vineyard hillside making it the first underground spa cave in the United States. As if going into a spa cave isn’t dreamy enough, opt for their Signature Treatment, the Solo Vino.  A wine experience like no other, this two-hour body libation begins with an exfoliating grape seed scrub, followed by an invigorating jet shower rinse and a decadent body wrap with a wine cave mud mask. A massage and a glass of wine and cheese tray complete this Napa Valley favorite.  

P.S.  If the local vineyards or close-by San Francisco wedding locations don’t fit your theme for a wedding, the Meritage Resort has a beautiful small chapel on site, just steps away from the spa cave.

spaterra.com
(866) 370-6272

Walter Claudio Salon has been a Santa Barbara favorite for 15 years; the spa, however, is a new and refreshing concept. Situated downtown in a historic 1930’s building, the spa has original red brick walls and high vaulted ceilings to give a big city look, and yet it still feels cozy.  Experience the Signature Spa Package, the Well-Deserved Treatment that includes:  facial, massage, hand treatment, cosmetic application, and Walter’s well-known scalp massage. 

P.S. Walter Claudio Salon is most famous for its salon services, so don’t forget to book an appointment for the big day.

walterclaudio.com
(805) 963-7579

Conveniently, but secretly tucked away, Cielo is a quaint skincare spa perfect for a small wedding party.  In a quiet location just off State Street, the skincare spa is inviting and has a mini-deck off the main treatment room. Indulge in the Champagne Duet, Cielo’s Signature three-hour treatment. The Duet includes an unbelievably relaxing facial and body treatment using a papaya enzyme to hydrate and exfoliate.

P.S.  Cielo also has an acupuncturist available for balancing treatments.

cielospasb.com
(805) 687-8979