Monday, January 13, 2014

The Grind

You can't cheat the grind. Power through and get to the next step.

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

Sunday, January 5, 2014

ChiBeria

You know it's cold in Chicago when your coffee mugs need sweaters to stay hot!

Thursday, January 2, 2014

Acchaa Beauty + Wellness Spa Grand Opening

 
I was excited to attend the Acchaa Beauty + Wellness Spa grand opening on November 18th located at 500 N. Wells Street in River North, Chicago.  The spa was filled to capacity with guests enjoying cocktails and Sugar Hills Bakery desserts.



Sujula and Brij Vohra moved with their son, Jay, to Chicago years ago and operated successful threading salons in the surrounding suburbs (Thread Away Brow Salon is located next door). Jay continues to draw inspiration from his parents and honors them with the opening of Acchaa.
"Acchaa" is a Hindi word which literally means that you are feeling good, or that something is good. "Acchaa" also means understanding or agreement. Such positivity is fitting for a salon emphasizing on the wellness of mind, body and spirit!

Acchaa’s mission is to provide mind and body healing techniques based in Ayurvedic principles. Ayurveda is considered the oldest medical science originating from India and is based on healing the body, mind and spirit, holistically.  What makes Acchaa special is that Acchaa staff performs ayurvedic consultations with clients to determine the appropriate healing treatments.

I met with the Spa Manager, Molly Jansen, who gave me a tour of the salon.  I was especially taken by the salon décor. The chic and tranquil salon was adorned with the most exquisite hand-carved wall pieces imported from India.

 
On the main floor, Acchaa provided complementary ayurvedic services throughout the event including henna tattoos, eyebrow threading, NuFace neck and facelifts and Dosha readings.

  


On the main floor center, guests enjoyed makeup touch-ups by MakeUp Artist Sopha.  Acchha showcases the Kevyn Aucoin makeup line.

 
I got to know a little about Sopha while she was doing my touchup.  Sopha has been a professional makeup artist for seven years.  She earned a degree in photography and understands the relationship between makeup and photography.  Before branching out on her own, Ford Models represented her as a makeup artist.  Sopha works with clients, both private and commercial.
Sopha feels that makeup empowers women and can help improve our mood or attitude towards ourselves.  She believes makeup should always feel natural no matter how dramatic  you want to go. For more information about the salon's makeup services, contact Acchaa or email Sopha at info@sophamakeupartist.com to set up an appointment with her.
 
 
 
 

There are three rooms for massages and spa treatments on the lower level and one on the main level. Acchaa offers facials, massages, makeup, threading, waxing, lashes, tinting, and henna tattoos. Catering and fully customized packages are also available.  Special menu items to note are the Facial Pressure Point Series, Chakra Balancing Massage, Abhyanga Massage, Shirodhara Third Eye Massage, henna tattoos and Dosha readings.

For more information, check out Acchaa's website or Facebook Page. Photography credit:
Mariah Naella 



Wednesday, January 1, 2014