I got a groupon gift to here from my sister, for a 60 minute swedish massage. I was super excited but I also know there's about a zillion independent massage therapists that pop up on groupon, none of them last very long and I was hesitant because some of these folks might operate out of their grandma's basement for all I know...
But I made an appointment on their online scheduler and went in. I'll just go ahead and tell you here, the three star review is basically for their building appearance--it's difficult to find, difficult to park, there's no signs on the building (it's basically two houses back to back connected by some weird walkways, on a steep hill?). A man saw me looking confused and I told him where I was headed. He pointed me to the other side of the building, but still I saw no signs that said "CR2"--just some hair salon or something. A lady was standing outside and asked me what my name was--she was my masseuse, waiting for me.
Inside too is a bit awkward - a very shared space with other businesses. CR2 has worked hard to make the massage room look peaceful and comfortable though, and it looked and smelled clean. It doesn't have the most amazing ambiance (open/raw ceiling--what a drop ceiling usually covers--and a few other things) but, hey, every small business has to start somewhere, and this massage was free!
I was definitely a bit apprehensive about all this though and was beginning to think what I had gotten myself into. In all other areas of life, I tend to be okay with going the cheap route regardless of location or appearance - but when you're about to strip down and lay on somebody's table and let them touch you - I dunno. You kind of want to feel like you're in a palace (or a doctor's office...).
The start of the massage was slightly off (just harder pressure than I expected for a swedish massage) but once I directed her to go lighter, it was... excellent.
Seriously, the massage. was. awesome. I mean, for $30 (the cost of the groupon), it can't be beat. She did a fantastic job and I left feeling totally relaxed. It was like breathing a huge sigh of relief.
There were a few other things that contributed to the 3-star score-- the masseuse seemed awkward in her role before the massage. For instance, the lines you're supposed to say ("how are you today?" "please fill out this form", "take a look about the room and undress to your comfort", etc., etc) ...she sounded like she felt very silly having to say these things, and just wanted to get started with her work (which she's quite good at). It wasn't a big deal, but it didn't create a very professional superb spa "experience".
Also, I wish they had a way to make folks' hands warmer -- I can't fault her for having cold hands because you can't control that, but maybe invest in a massage-oil-warmer, or something?
But, seriously, I want CR2 to succeed. I wish I could give more than 3 stars because the massage was worth at least 4.5, but the ambiance, ease of access to the building and other little things brought it down a bit. But I think they can improve and are working hard on building their business, which I hope lasts! Reiko, the masseuse, really did a fantastic job! read more