Went in for microblading in May of 2025, worst decision of my life. When Doreen did my eyebrows they were uneven, not on brow-line and misshaped (one higher and arched the other extremely low and straight)and a huge gouge which still isn't healed. I asked her about this and she said don't worry they look fine. Called a few times expressing my concerns about the appearance and that I was having a reaction to the pigment. Doreen was very off putting and said she didn't care about their current appearance that I just needed to wait for follow up appointment. The redness and pain kept getting worse so I went to Dermatologist and was told it appeared to be an allergic reaction to the pigment and not to do any follow up. I told Doreen about this and once again she dismissed my concerns and insisted I do the follow up. Now, 5 months later I still have scarring and pigment "blotches" nowhere near where my brows should be. I will not follow up based upon my Dr. advice and recommend NO ONE let her butcher their face. Services Microblading read more

the services were okay but nothing special. Honestly they really need to work on their hospitality. When people are paying $300-700. They expect a certain level of kindness and to be welcomed. "Sit here in this chair" rather than saying please take a seat for example. We weren't welcomed or even greeted it was "last name?" and it was the same thing at checking out "last name?" Not oh how were your services or did you enjoy your time with us? I wasn't impressed to say the least. read more

Sadly needed a self care day and this place is misleading. It's a 100+ year old dated rusty house, the waiting room is a hallway. I was not greeted at all entering, and the man at the desk had a nicotine vape lanyard around his neck... off to a great start. Facial products all had fragrances and the facial discontinued due to lack of products that were appropriate for my skin. The esthetician was Irene and she was kind, the only normal spa interaction I had was with her. The massage therapist was Karen, and it was the worst most pointless massage of my life. She had no techniques and just rubbed and stroked oil across my body... she was clearly tired, bored and was waiting for the time to be up. When she got to my feet she literally just pressed on the bottom of my feet a lightly as an elevator button. She's a larger woman and at times her body was rubbing on my head and it was very unpleasant. The upsetting part was the botched massage because I wasted my money and left needing a massage. I informed the front desk person about the discontinued facial and horrible massage and he said I should be contacted for a credit. 5 days later I called to speak with someone and left a message. No one's returned my call. Sorry to leave this review for a small business but it's not a day spa, it's a old house with not a ounce of therapeutic skill sets or customer service potential. Waste of money. Call me, thank you. read more

It was okay, I purchased the package that included the sauna, wellness pod, and Swedish massage. The massage was great. But overall I didn't feel relaxed cause it was one thing to the next. I would recommend not getting the package and would just get the message next time. Wellness pod was kind of weird. Not really worth it. read more

I love what Doreen has done for me with my eyebrows. I drive a hour and a half each way to have her do my brows and I couldn't be happier. She is truly a artist. read more

My partner just returned from a massage I bought for her. She said the staff was noticeably rude and stiff for a massage parlor. This seems to be a trending theme with other reviews I've read below. Should've taken them at their word instead of giving them the benefit of the doubt. Don't go here! They are not cheap, and for the price you want peak service and friendliness. read more

My mom and I came here today for pedicures, massages, and facials together. We sent an email requesting an appointment only yesterday, they were very accommodating and called right away this morning to confirm their ability to get us in. Arriving there, this spa is in a renovated home. They have their own parking lot so parking was a non-issue. The exterior is cozy and cute, however the interior wasn't quite what I prefer from a spa. The inside hasn't been renovated much past the look of a home. It has a strong shabby chic look, but leaning towards old and outdated rather than chic. The space inside often felt cramped because of the structure of the house. Our pedicures were first. We had Debra and Doreen on our toes. The pedicure seats were comfortable. I had on gel polish which Debra was able to remove for me-- even though I had said previously I was okay just having the scrub/soak parts of the pedicure. Again, very accommodating service. However, the mood from Doreen (who I believe is the owner; she was clearly in charge) about this addition was unsettling. I felt as though I'd caused a problem in the schedule even though Debra assured me it was an okay change. Overall, Doreen's attitude felt off-putting and unsettled the atmosphere of relaxation. That said, Doreen's work on my mom's pedicure was really wonderful. My mom suffers from a lot of calluses and dry feet. Doreen recommended an upgraded pedicure for her and meticulously treated her feet to remove the top layer of dry, hard skin to leave her feet very nice. My pedicure was also wonderful. The gel removal was damage-free and professional. Debra, through the entire service, was upbeat and positive. She was delightful. Then, I had my massage with Karen while my mother had her facial (with added reflexology for the feet at the same time). Afterwards, we would switch. My massage with Karen was nice, but not in my best massage experiences. Karen's pressure was overall very light, which was relaxing, but as some other reviews have mentioned there's not a great atmosphere to the space. There's constant noise that isn't hidden by the speakers playing waves and music in the treatment room. There's traffic noise, water running in the next room (the facial room), and creaking floorboards. You can hear basically anything happening in the house/spa the entire time. Additionally, my mom and I both agreed that the room had some sort of faint smell that bothered us personally. As for the facial, done by Doreen, it was professional (in my opinion). My skin felt tender, but clean afterwards. It felt like a very medical/treatment heavy facial-- which I like. However, the speed of the facial was a touch more than I anticipated. The extractions, in particular, were aggressive. Now, I didn't say to stop (because I wanted the benefits) or to slow down (because frankly I'm shy), but I've never had another facial with that amount of pain or speed. My biggest complaint about my facial though is the sales pitch. I know it's typical to be given recommendations of products stocked in the spa/salon and the purpose is to help your skin, but with Doreen's overall command/aggression it felt more like pushy than I wanted. Debra's reflexology was very relaxing. My mom said it was "the most relaxing part of the day." I almost fell asleep. Overall, it wasn't the ideal relaxation day we'd hoped for. We still enjoyed our services, but I'm not sure I've found *the* spa in New Haven. read more

Meh. Had a voucher for the wellness pod that they advertised as "slimming." It was the oddest experience and didn't do a damn thing. There were many settings and they set it to "brightening" which had nothing to do with slimming. They also charge an additional fee and make you pay tax on your voucher which was even more bizarre. Staff acted like you were bothering them by just walking through the door. Will never return. read more

I purchased a coupon for microblading. I had my first session in August of 2019 and the touch up session this past week. The first thing I noticed was the uncleanliness of this spa, it has a lot of potential but it was cluttered and messy, there was a Christmas plant with a clump of hair hanging in it, as well as general staining and debris. The person who greeted me was nice and polite, no complaints there. The first microblading session was just ok, she began microblading my eyebrows in the salon area while talking to other clients which was slightly annoying. Then we moved upstairs to this small room with a table to lie on. The room was equally cluttered with people walking through the halls, and a closet style door which offers little privacy from noise. Also the woman who did my brows, while I believe was well intentioned, was repeatedly commenting on the poor condition of my skin, which made me feel terrible. I believe the intention was to have me purchase other services but it was done in a rude manner, therefore I won't be going back. I chose to rate this spa/salon three stars which they're probably not deserving of mainly because after the second microblading session, I am very happy with my brows. During the second session the technician commented on my skin again but I chose not to entertain this conversation and she seemed to drop it. Long story short, if you're seeking a nice relaxing environment possibly look elsewhere. read more

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I loved my experience here. LOVED that the spa used to be a house (it gave it a homey feel) and learning about some of the history of the house (I was asking questions by the way so I don't want anyone to think they're going to come here and get a history lesson. However, if you're interested in that kind of stuff, ask!). My massage therapist/manicurist (Deb) was awesome! Everyone that worked there that I came across was super friendly and I left feeling great! read more

HORRIBLE ! VERY DISAPPOINTED ! Went there for my birthday, I bought the serenity package, I mean STRESSFUL package. Let me break this down: Swedish massage - performed by KAREN, felt like she was putting sunscreen on my body. Massage ??? .This lady barely comunicate and when you look at her, fells like she is carrying the world in her shoulders. Horrible energy. Can you imagine how I felt, after the "massage"? . Another important thing, people talking and giggling next door, so the peaceful music they play in this place is completely useless. Massage rooms has to be completely QUIET. European facial - Here is the "good"part -performed by DEBRA , very friendly, sweet lady , seems the only person there, knows what customer service means and have some skills. The only person I tipped btw. Bath Hydro tub therapy - was alright, DEBRA did some exfoliation and once again she was very sweet. Reception/Receptionist - KENNY ( not sure if real or fake name ) he was very surprised that I asked his name ( hum shady place ... shady people) . Very DRY gentleman ( gentle.. man that's how supposed to be ). He talked to me while his was on his laptop not even looked in my eyes but the moment I asked his name I got his attention, WOW . Smiles ? Forget about it. There is NO SMILES in that place . Even a simple cup of tea, coffee or snacks . They do not offer you anything ZERO treatment. What about read the form they give to you to fill it out, they probably do not read otherwise they will realized its your birthday and just say : happy birthday to the customer. Right? Customer service ! Hello ???? . After all, KENNY had the nerve to ask me if I wanna add extra $ on top of everything I paid ( including the extra fees BS ). Thats the moment I felt like a . Because before that coment,I was felling aggravated and disappointed but he had the skill and add the cherry on top of the cake making me fell also like a clown. When my STRESSFUL package (they really should update the name of the treatment on the website) finished , some lady showed up in front of me ( under the impression is the owner), asked me how's everything, fake smile, actually the whole approach was about the SHADY extra fees and taxes and BS . She wasn't worried about how I feel at all, she was worry about money in . This review is not to help the business to improve because honestly I do not think they wanna improve at all. Its to inform that this place DO NOT deserve your time and money. I left that place felling worse than I enter . DO NOT GO TO THIS PLACE !!!! read more

I had a microblading job done here a year or so ago and it was done very poorly! I would recommend going elsewhere if you're looking for microblading. It wasn't very professional and did not meet standards of how a microblading app should go! Your brows need properly mapped out, not free handed without any idea of shape before going into something semi permanent! I'd recommend going elsewhere, hope this helps someone down the line. Re: owners response you're semi correct there.. except I called and cancelled my appointment for a touch up after how unprofessional my appointment was. Re- (to the owners comment) you're correct, as mentioned I came a year or two ago.. and also you're correct, they're suppose to be mapped out which was why I was blown away by someone free handing my eye brows! As far as a no call no show, that is incorrect. I didn't come back after this incident. A shame, I really enjoyed your vibe inside the spa! I just think this needs to be updated and done properly if you're going to offer this service! read more

It was my first time here . I had received a gift card , so I decided to try it out . Being my first time , I had thought the direction would have been much better . I was having two spas treatments , but was often left in the waiting room , as to where to go next . During the massage , which was lovely , and done by Karen . In the next room these two women were carrying on , giggling and laughing loudly which was very rude considering I was having a massage and was supposed to be a relaxing time . That was very disappointing . It was very noisy with the women employees walking around in their heels , slamming doors , and the creaky floor boards didn't help . No consideration for others . Not a very relaxing experience I'd say . read more

I can't believe I'm saying this, but I hated this spa experience. I've been here in the past and have had many other spa treatments and have never had an issue. This one was incredibly disappointing. Very rude impersonal staff, zero questions asked about any specific needs I had for my body, and the entire experience felt rushed. I had towels and products just flung on with almost an aggressive feel, and absolutely was not relaxing. I had to ask the staff to stop touching part of my upper body because they spent so much time poorly rubbing it that it became sensitive. Due to this, I will never be back here. read more

Had a pedicure, along with my son. They provided one technician that went back and forth between us. Deb was very nice but did burn my feet with paraffin wax. The spa says my feet were too sensitive. I guess that's an "I'm sorry?". read more

The massages I had with Jen and Doreen were hands down the best I have ever had and I've had many massages before at different places. All of the employees there made sure that I was okay and kept offering water, tea, snacks, etc. The option to sit in the sauna while you waited was a nice touch also. It might be worth noting that if it's important to you to have complete silence, this is more of a house so you will hear people walking around and talking but I personally didn't find it bothersome. Very relaxing services I would definitely recommend this spa! read more

Excellent service! I've been going for eyebrows for several months, which she does a phenomenal job with. I decided to try the cranial sacral massage. Never felt more relaxed and haven't been this pain free in a long time. Going back next week. Can't wait! read more

In January I purchased a Groupon for microblading. This was my first mistake, as I had never known anyone who has been there. I had a horrible experience all around. My first impression was a bad one. The aesthetician did not introduce herself to me when she walked in. During a later conversation I found out this was the owners mother, and her name was Doreen. The overall condition of the room was dirty and messy. I am not a picky person by any means,and I have never been treated as shabbily in my entire life . I am an RN, and the aesthetician 's technique left a lot to be desired. She basically ignored my request to stop, as the topical anesthetic did not have enough time to take. Ideally 20-30 minutes is a minimum amount of time needed to adequately anesthetize the skin. She had it on for 5 minutes. The microblading itself was poorly executed. My eyebrows were uneven and were lacking color in some areas. Would highly NOT recommend this place! read more

I had an awesome experience here getting facials before my wedding! I had never gotten a facial before, and it was pretty incredible. I tried several different services they offer, following their advice, and I really enjoyed better skin for that period of time. Plus, they were consistently nice and friendly, and the atmosphere there is very calming and beautiful. Now that I've moved to another state, I miss this place! read more

I wanted to give this place a trial run, as it's local and I was in serious need of some me time. As a spa, I was expecting a bit more from the services. I think the people were nice, I was greeted kindly but communication was at a minimum. I wish someone would have told me the French pedi would be an up charge as the basic pedi was already 40$ and shows a French pedicure on the website. I originally came to this location for a lash lift and tint, the pedicure was supposed to be a happily added bonus. The French manicure wasn't French at all, it was a nude tip with more nude color painted on top. A pink "sparkle" was included to mask the major imperfections I didn't notice as I was rushed upstairs for the lash service. Lash tint was left on my skin around my eyes, now I have black freckles in two spots. In all I felt rushed, yes the staff were pleasant but for 140$ I expected way more from the basic pedicure and not to have stained skin. Will not be recommending, wish I had turned around for a refund. read more

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The services here are excellent. Debra is especially good at massage. But everytime I go there I get the upsell schtick . I always bite...membership I can't afford, facials that don't give me the results I was expecting. I love this place but keep your wallet locked up. Don't buy the upsell and just enjoy yourself. read more

I was in for Microblading a first for the procedure and being serviced at this spa. I have to say from the initial call it was nothing but a welcoming and professional experience. Communication ahead of the visit was good (there was a last minute time change). Upon my arrival I was greeted, and directed to the designated seating area. While I was completing the paperwork Doreen came down, introduced herself and explained the procedure. I knew then, This spot was a winner!! I am beyond pleased with the service, as well as the overall experience. I am already planning my return (outside of my follow up) and what services I will be gifting to whom. I had brief interactions with other staff members all of whom were polite. Not to mention everything about the place is so zen from the inside out. Again, I cannot say how pleased I am to experience other services here. read more

Best salon for color correction hands down. Repaired my vacation color damaged hair and replaced the smoothness. Doreen has more ways to fix my hair than I have of ruining it. Loyal customer! read more

I had a couples massage here about a month ago. My massage w D was excellent. Can't say the same about the other therapist. If you are looking for a quiet place for a massage to relax this is not the place. The floors are insanely creaky so you hear every step taken. The walls are paper thin so any and all conversations that are being had in the next room, or waiting area are heard. The room where we had our couples massage was bright as day - again not so relaxing. The final kicker for me was the 10% Covid-19 surcharge. We came masked per state requirement. When our massage therapists came in we were given 2 new masks. When we checked out we were each charged $11.00. I understand Covid has effected businesses but that's just unacceptable. We will never go back. I would have given 1 star but my massage was great - I wish D was at a different place! read more

I love this spa. I've had the benefit of Laura and Doreen's magic. Laura paints my toes, waxes my legs, dies my eyebrows and lashes. I've just started LED/Ultra sound treatments on my face and neck. I look great! Ellen F read more

Love my new eyebrows!! Thank you Doreen! She's very professional and a perfectionist. Also the spa itself is lovely.

My experience was amazing! Doreen is so experienced and knowledgeable! Very tranquil and relaxing environment!

Had the best sports massage by Jen...I dont know why this place got such a low rating...but Im a runner, went to Jen, and to this day may be the best massage I've ever gotten read more

I have been coming here since 2019, for micro blading for brows. Doreen does an amazing job on my eyebrows. I feel so relaxed there and she is so sweet. This place is cozy, clean, and has excellent service. If you are looking for mirco blading for your brows this is the place and Doreen is excellent. read more

This Spa is the total package. Relaxing, warm, inviting and truly full service! I have had many services from bikini wax, eyebrow wax and tint, lash extensions, massage, facial and body scrubs! Every time I have had a great experience. This spa has consistently performed each and every time. They also have a wonderful selection of products. If you haven't been there yet, get there - you won't be disappointed. read more

The perfect place to spend a day relaxing. The attention to detail by the owner and the staff makes for a truly customized and special experience I will continue to revisit whenever I'm in town read more

Had an hour massage with Sarah for the first time today and it was incredible! I've had many massages before at different places, but this one stands out as one of the best. Sarah was very professional and I could tell she's very passionate about what she does and takes pride in being a very skilled masseuse. The sauna is another reason I give Branford River Resort & Spa 5 stars. I really love to unwind and relax in there. For a short time I can forget about life and how hectic it can be sometimes. Overall very relaxing and pleasant experience. :) read more

The chocolate pedicure is amazing. I had a sense that the nail technician disliked the mess it made, but the cocoa smell lingered on after the pedi was over. I rated the service average because the technician is not skilled with petite nails; red polish spilled over the edges. I'm glad I visited. Discounts available to first time clients if you look closely at other websites. read more

Amazing experience, great staff, I can't wait to go back! My massage was the best I've ever had. The owner is simply delightful!

I had my third microblading session with Doreen today. It has only gotten better. I had very little eyebrows due to a Thyroid condition and was so embarrassed by it. A friend went to Doreen and recommended it to me. I was nervous, but so happy with the outcome. I will be back for touch ups as needed. read more

Best spa in Branford, CT. Friendly and professional staff. As well as a very clean environment !

I've been going to the Branford River Spa for close to 2 years now and have had nothing but good experiences. Even when I come in with different ideas for holiday themed pedi's. Doreen always accommodates my requests and schedule with a smile. I am particularly thrilled today with my Halloween themed nails! I love them! This is not a glossy chichi salon if that is what you are looking for. It is homey, cozy and intimate. And the owner and staff care that your happy. read more

what a great experience. A++ great people. great atmosphere. Ken was so helpful. my mother and I had a great time and we cant wait to go back read more

This is a small quaint spa - if you are looking for a more commercial experience this is NOT for you. But if you want a quaint, peaceful, true New England cozy atmosphere this is your place. Great pedicure - and amazing body wrap treatment - nice service and most importantly left after my services feeling renewed & revived and my skin was silky smooth on my feet and body. read more

In preparation for my wedding day I decided to look into treatments to help with the last 15lbs. I wanted to lose before my final dress fitting. I found Branford River Spa and have not regretted a moment since. I booked the Weight Loss Wrap and went in skeptical about what the results would be. I will break this review into sections about customer service, overall atmosphere/experience, treatment, results and cost to help target key points. Customer Service: In person Doreen and all of the staff were pleasant and attentive. On booking over the phone, the staff was friendly but didn't share much about what I should expect when arriving. This would have been helpful as I wasn't expecting to change into a very tiny and sheer disposable panty and bra. I was expecting to keep my own undergarments on. Perhaps this is common knowledge but I guess I missed that day in class. Either way, plan to be nearly naked for a bit. Overall Atmosphere/Environment: If you're expecting marble floors water fountains and plush chaise lounges this is not the place. The spa is in a converted home and feels very much like it. It's a very warm and inviting place. Small but comfortable. There are sevaral rooms on each of the floors dedicated to makeup, facials, massages and other spa treatments. I knew there were other people receiving treatments but never crossed in the hallways or anything. Treament: The treatment begins with some time in the dry-heat sauna (infrared) which helps to detox prior to treatment. This is amazing and has other incredible benefits like pain relief, deep tissue relaxation and improved circulation. I consider these added perks that I wasn't expecting. Once you're out of the sauna it's time to massage. Without giving away too many secrets, this a 2 part process. It's intense but boy do you get results. Incredible for cellulite reduction!!! After the massage you're wrapped in Doreens special blend of products and put into a warm bed to relax for about 30-45 minutes. Results: 1st Treatment - 10.5 inches total lost from thighs, arms and abdomen. 2nd Treatment (1 week later) - an additional 4.75 inches total lost from thighs, arms and abdomen. Weight Loss - 5lbs After 3 weeks I've continued to lose weight and have kept the 15+ inches off. I feel incredible! My skin is glowing, my face has never been this clear and hydrated. I feel great internally too. I've never been this regular (TMI). Cost: The treatment I received was $120 and while that may seem steep, it is completely worth it. I have been to many high end spas that will charge 2x the price at Branford River Spa and gotten less than half of these results. With my dress final dress fitting coming up this week I am excited knowing that I've reached my weight loss goal and will have no worries about lumpy arms in my strapless dress. My arms look firm and toned with very few cellulite bumps. This was not the case a month ago. For my honeymoon I am looking forward to wearing my bathing suit and not covering up with a sarong because I hated by legs. I feel sexy and am enjoying the confidence that this has helped to bring out. My husband to be is loving the results too!!! Thank you Doreen!!! read more