A Journey of Luxury and Tranquillity: Celebrating 29 Years with Stephanies Luxury Spas
For nearly three decades, Stephanies Luxury Spas have been synonymous with elegance, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Established in 1994 as Stephanies Natural Beauty, the Stephanies brand has transformed the spa industry in South East Queensland, redefining luxury and wellness. As we celebrate this remarkable 29 year journey, we highlight the incredible achievements and the commitment that has elevated Stephanies to become a respected industry leader. Come with me on a journey, let us stroll through time, from humble beginnings in 1994 to becoming a finalist at the World Luxury Spa Awards in 2023.
The World Luxury Spa Awards: Recognising Excellence
Founded in 2010, the World Luxury Spa Awards is the pinnacle of achievement in the luxury spa industry. It provides international recognition based on votes from guests, travellers, and industry insiders. It's with immense pride that Stephanies has been nominated again in 2023 as a finalist for the Best Luxury Spa Group category. This achievement stands as a true testament to the unwavering commitment to excellence that has been at the cornerstone of Stephanies journey since 1994.
Vision and Gratitude – Stephanie Shepherd
"Behind every successful brand, there is a team of exceptional people who pour their hearts and souls into their work," states Stephanie Shepherd, the CEO and Founder of Stephanies Luxury Spas. With these words, she expresses her deep gratitude to the teams across the six luxury spa destinations and the head office. Our dedicated team are the driving force behind the breathtaking spa experiences that guests have come to cherish. Their commitment to training and service excellence has been instrumental in making Stephanies a name synonymous with luxury.
A Journey of Tranquillity and Luxury
Stephanies Urban Spa, founded in 1994 with its humble beginning in Camp Hill, Brisbane originally known as Stephanies® Natural Beauty. Nestled in the serene surroundings of Oxford Street, Bulimba, this day spa quickly became an iconic haven, nurturing the local community with its tranquil ambiance and rejuvenating treatments.
In 2007, Stephanies Spa Retreat Sofitel Brisbane Central was unveiled, adding a touch of French-inspired luxury to Brisbane City. This award-winning spa became a haven of indulgence, offering a collection of world-class spa rituals, beauty treatments, body therapies, and wellness packages that set a new standard in relaxation.
The year 2010 marked the opening of Stephanies Ocean Spa at Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas. Positioned on the fringe of the famous Noosa National Park, this spa embraced the beauty of its natural surroundings. Its proximity to Hastings Street's boutiques and culinary delights added an element of elegance to the spa experience.
The journey continued with Stephanies Mountain Spa at Mercure Clear Mountain Lodge in 2011. Just a short drive from Brisbane CBD, this spa offered a retreat amidst breathtaking bushland. Its harmonious landscapes contributed to the perfect spa escape, captivating guests with its serenity.
In 2012, Stephanie Shepherd's vision led to the transformation of La Plunge in Cleveland into Stephanies Vintage Spa. Housed within a historical Queenslander, this spa became a tribute to elegance and relaxation. The Hamptons-inspired spaces, combined with French sophistication, provided guests with an enchanting escape from the ordinary.
Expanding Horizons and Innovation
Though there were no new spa additions until 2020 with the opening of Stephanies Wellness Spa Surfers Paradise, the years between 2012 and 2020 were far from quiet. Stephanies introduced la Vie Elixir, a bespoke collection of tea blends crafted from the finest ingredients sourced globally. This artisanal collection, professionally blended by a master tea expert, perfectly complemented the spa experience, focusing on wellbeing and rejuvenation.
2021 marked the launch of Stephanies Skin and Body Collection. Inspired by Australia's natural beauty, this luxury skincare collection embodied the ethos of Stephanies. Harnessing the power of botanical and cosmeceutical actives, the collection paid homage to nature, while nurturing the skin.
The journey continued in 2022 with Stephanies Mindful Spa Essential Oil. Created with 100% pure essential oils, this collection encapsulated the essence of Australia and urban living. The mindful blends provided an immersive sensory journey, embodying the spirit of Stephanies' luxury spa destinations.
As we reflect on this extraordinary journey spanning 29 years, we are humbled and grateful for the support of all of our guests and to the global recognition we have received. The patronage and loyalty that each and every one of our spas has seen has been at the heart of the brands success. Your trust in our commitment to excellence has allowed us to create spa experiences that exceed expectations, transporting you to a realm of tranquillity and luxury.
Stephanies Luxury Spas evolution from its humble beginnings to becoming a finalist in the World Luxury Spa Awards is a testament to the dedication of its founder, Stephanie Shepherd, husband Desmond and the entire team, who this year on the 28th October will be travelling to Athens to attend the awards ceremony and with everything crossed, bring home the award!
The legacy of excellence, innovation, and unparalleled service continues to shape not only the Stephanies brand but also the industry. As we move forward, we are excited to continue our journey of offering you, our guests, the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation. Here is to the past, the present, and the promising future of luxury spa experiences with Stephanies.
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