Courtland Aveda Day Spa

The ladies working there were very nice, BUT my haircut had to be fixed the following day (unfortunately you can’t glue bangs back on), I am from out of town, even if I was a local I am sure I would not have gone back to fix it. Pretty certain it couldn’t be made much worse but certainly wouldn’t take my chances. The manicurist who did my acrylics (my first time for these) was so nice, but the nails she put on were SOOO thick and were not even. I didn’t know any better at the time, so I didn’t complain. Lost one after 12 days, went to a local and had to have them removed, had air pockets under at least one of them. Not impressed, will never go back.

My travels have taken me all over the world, and I’ve had a chance to visit many salons and spas, including those in some of the finest hotels: the Mansion at Turtle Creek, the Plaza, the Four Seasons, and Canyon Ranch at the Venetian. I have also visited several Aveda® salons and spas throughout the Midwest. This review is written within the framework of those experiences.
While less opulent than the above-​mentioned salons and spas, the Courtland is not lacking in their menu of services nor in the experience and education of their staff.
As a regular client at the Courtland, I have personally experienced the majority of their services. I will try to address 10 questions a new client might have.
1) What services are offered?
The full spectrum of spa and salon services are offered: massage, body wraps, waxing, facials, makeovers, hair and nail care.
2) Are men welcome?
Yes. Male clients come not just for massages and haircuts, but also for services tailored to them: the full shave, back & chest waxing, nail buffing, etc.
3) Who performs the services and how well?
Sundae, Kat & Nikki are cosmetologists who excel as colorists and stylists.
Brandi is a nail tech and second to none when it comes to manicures and pedicures.
Patty the esthetician gives the most incredible facials.
The massage therapists are too numerous to mention, but each has a loyal following. My personal favorite is Cheryl, whose reflexology massages are the best anywhere.
4) What products are used?
The Courtland is an Aveda® Concept Spa & Salon. Aveda® offers a wide range of products for every hair type as well as bath and body products and a complete line of cosmetics. Not only are Aveda® products used by the staff, but they are also available for sale in the lobby.
Spa Ritual® nail polish (free of DBP, formaldehyde & toluene) is preferred, though OPI® and China Glaze® are also available at the customer’s request. The complete line of colors is carried in all three brands.
5) What is the facility like?
While located in a century-​old historic hotel, the spa facilities were added only about 5 years ago. The tile floors, exposed brick and white textured walls, wicker chairs, and tropical plants lend a sort of Key West ambiance to the space.
The spa lobby can be reached from the street or from the hotel lobby. The spa lobby has seating for those who arrive early, a retail area and restrooms.
The salon area features stylist stations, shampoo sink, manicure tables and pedicure thrones. The spa area, in addition to several private rooms for massage and facials, includes another restroom and a shower facility.
6) Do they pamper clients?
The client’s comfort is always a priority before, during and after any service. Part of the difference between a spa salon and a beauty shop is the level of attention given to clients. At the Courtland, clients are treated to complimentary hand massages, hot or iced tea, and the «Sensory Journey» (a scalp and neck massage using aromatic oils).
Caveat: Aveda® tea has a faint taste of anise. Those who dislike black licorice may also dislike the tea. Other teas are usually available at the client’s request.
7) What are the hours of operation?
Staff schedules are flexible to accommodate the clients’ schedules. The spa and salon are open mornings, afternoons and evenings, Monday thru Saturday.
Caveat: While the spa and salon welcome walk-​ins, most staff members have such a loyal following of regular customers that they are booked up in advance. They are especially busy around Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Prom, June wedding season, late August («The Gala,» a huge local charity dinner & dance), and the Holidays. Though it’s best to call in advance, the management will make every effort to accommodate walk-​ins and last-​minute appointments.
8) Are gift certificates available?
Yes. Courtland gift certificates are available in any amount and can be applied to both services and the purchase of retail products.
9) What are the prices like?
Prices are very reasonable. In fact, the Courtland is probably Aveda’s best-​kept secret. For the price of a haircut at an Aveda® salon in a big city, one can get a cut and color at the Courtland. The owners have made every effort to offer a big-​city spa experience at a small-​town price.
10) What is the Courtland best known for?
Locally, the Courtland is known for its packages and parties. Several packages combining anywhere from two to a full day’s worth of spa and salon services are available. For full-​day packages, lunch can be provided. Spa parties can also be arranged for two to twelve people, and a are a great way for groups to spend an afternoon or evening together: mother-​daughter, girl friends, couples, bridal party, etc. They even offer «diva parties» for little girls.
Summary: The Courtland offers a true spa experience — something rarely found in small, rural community such as Fort Scott — at a very affordable price.