Bear Hug

Two of my many goals for 2017 are to take better care of myself and to patronize more small businesses. Luckily, I was able to find a new spa in South Park that helps me do both!

Bear Hug Massage and Spa is owned and operated by Patrick, a massage therapist, and Nicholle, a beautician, both of whom are ready, willing and able to make you look and feel your best. 

The spa, conveniently located in the Bavarian Village on Brownsville Road, is a comfortable, relaxing hideaway that puts you at ease as soon as you step through the doors. The sage green paint, tiny terrarium in the waiting room, and bear-themed décor makes you feel like you’re about to be pampered at a mountain lodge resort. 

The owners, who met at massage therapy school, have created an all-around hidden retreat.  From the open, airy waiting room to the bright reception area and clean, relaxing treatment rooms, it’s easy to see their passion for the business.  “I have been doing this for ten years and every day I love my job more and more. Clients make me happy, and I hope we make them happy!” Nicholle says. “I love what I do and have the best business partner anyone could ask for.”

Services include the traditional massages, manis/pedis, and waxing, but Bear Hug also offers reflexology (touch therapy), body wraps (for detoxification), and Reiki, an ancient Japanese practice of energy healing.  Their various other services, which include facials and makeup application can be viewed on their easy-to-navigate website, www.bearhugspa.com, which echoes the peaceful feel of their physical location. Bear Hug’s services are reasonably priced, and they offer a monthly membership that includes special pricing and other great discounts. They also send out offers for your birthday, and good deals can always be found online. 

In all honesty, the only bad thing I can say about Bear Hug is that their location (in the rear of Bavarian Village) doesn’t give them the recognition or curb appeal they so deserve. In an era where opening a small business or being a self-starter takes extra guts and extra hard work, Patrick and Nicholle seemed to have hit it out of the park. With a little recognition and a few referrals, I can easily see lots of new clients breezing through their doors. 

If you’re looking for a new place to pamper yourself, I highly recommend taking a drive through pretty South Park straight to Bear Hug Massage and Spa! 

Stacy is a 2003 graduate of West Mifflin Area High School and has completed two courses with The Institute of Children’s Literature. She writes novels for teenagers and adults, both of which can be found on Amazon. Stacy lives in Munhall with her husband and fur kid, and besides writing, enjoys reading, Penguins hockey, and traveling.