UCI Spa and Wellness Management Certificate Program

Reflecting on the success of the investors on the show "Shark Tank," Marc Emmer, founder of Optimize Inc., explains the value of specialization. He describes the benefits of focusing on a smaller market, offering targeted messaging and staying in a specific niche. https://bit.ly/3c7KX1K

Opening a body positive and inclusive yoga studio in February 2019, Paris Alexandra and Alicia Ferguson have received strong community support in the belief that "yoga is for everybody," Alexandra says. Transitioning to virtual classes in March, they also host online wellness retreats and are teaching others how to practice self-care during the pandemic. https://bit.ly/3iDBCS0

The Lodge at Woodloch in the Poconos offers wellness programs that incorporate spa treatments, classes, outdoor activities and exercise with the goal of reducing stress for guests. The Pennsylvania destination spa is currently offering massages but not facial treatments due to coronavirus guidelines. https://bit.ly/2ZJeWsd

The Omni Viking Lakes Hotel, scheduled to open next month in the Twin Cities suburb of Eagan, Minn., will honor the state's Nordic heritage in a modern setting, the general manager says. Among thematic features of the 320-room hotel, the first Omni property in Minnesota, is a spa offering alternating hot and cold treatment that originated in Finland. https://bit.ly/3mvmKav

Salon 345 & Day Spa in Saugus, Mass., has created an Outdoor Oasis for those who want to receive salon services outside. "People really like it, and it fits with what we're trying to do to keep everyone safe," owner Denise Selden says. https://bit.ly/3mrFqYF

Lake Austin Spa Resort in Texas offers a full menu of spa treatments at its award-winning spa, including scalp treatments, facials and massages. Therapists wear masks while providing services. https://bit.ly/32Ayi4h

Customer service is integral to operating a successful business, and small-business owners can use technology to excel in this area, writes Pritom Das, founder of TravelerPlus. For example, chatbots can provide immediate assistance, and two-way video can help businesses walk customers through complicated processes. https://bit.ly/327pdP0

Developers of the $330 million Therme Manchester wellbeing resort and water park have released new images of the property, which is slated to open in 2023. The resort will feature swimming pools, a wave pool, water slides, an adults' area with swim-up bars and therapeutic pools, and water-based fitness activities. https://bit.ly/2FBpzpR

This Santa Barbara, Calif., spa was able to access the outdoor patio of a neighboring business in order to reopen and California's special operating requirements due to the coronavirus pandemic. https://bit.ly/3mvmqIP

Shears Etc. salon in Baton Rouge, La., has placed two haircutting stations in its parking lot to help customers feel comfortable amid the coronavirus pandemic. "Since we have to touch people and be right on top of them, it's a little safer for them," owner Sheri Blackwell says. https://bit.ly/31GrCA8

To "be all there" for customers means caring for their needs and being committed to their success, writes Chip Bell. Such a pledge isn't about "merely checking off a task, making a meeting, or occupying a role. https://bit.ly/2Fa3sX1

Segmenting customers by whether they wear face masks can help you identify how to tailor messaging and services, say Colin Shaw and Emory University professor Ryan Hamilton in this podcast. They identify five such segments. https://bit.ly/2XTnICO

Aeon Nail Spa in Killeen, Texas, has created "For the Cure" manicure and pedicure services to support the nonprofit Pink Warrior Angels of Texas, a group that helps cancer patients. https://bit.ly/2DUliNk

Construction of the Aqua Spa Float Center & Wellness Boutique in Oswego, N.Y., is nearing completion with an opening planned for this fall. "We couldn't be more thrilled to see the sanctuary in its home stretch," owner Gary McGuire said. https://bit.ly/2PPlkc2