No, you can’t feed your stomach anymore at the century-old farmhouse at 665 N. Sequim Ave., formerly Adrian’s, but you can receive sustenance for body and soul there at Tender Touches Spa at Cedar Creek.
Mona Gates of Port Angeles purchased the well-established Sequim business in 2012 and moved it from Eureka Way to Fifth Avenue, opening on April 1 this year.
“It kind of looked like a spa and there’s just so much more room than at our last location,” Gates said, who decided to keep much of the rich and relaxing decor of the former restaurant.
Circa 1890, the farmhouse was on the outskirts of Sequim and the residence/office of Dr. W.W. McGeorge, so Gates finds it fitting that healing again is going on within its walls. She is an aesthetician, a licensed skincare specialist who treats skin to maintain and improve its appearance.
“We do everything but hair for both women and men, including facials, chemical peels, massages, body treatments, nails and pedicures,” Gates said. “Our main thing is anti-aging, which is supported by the demographics of Sequim. Our average customer probably is 70 and I have four or five clients over 95. They feel, ‘It’s time to take care of me.’”
A former front parlor is a restful, darkened retreat where many of the facial treatments take place on a heated, soft bed.
“For our anti-aging facial we use a lot of technology with the computerized micro-current machine, the best one on the market, which uses spectrum light therapy. It’s healing, regenerating and makes the skin firmer,” Gates said. She also has a hand-held model for reducing puffiness around the eyes.
Also downstairs is a reception area, where Jane Iredale Mineral Cosmetics are offered; a tea serving area; and manicure booths. Upstairs is a tranquil room devoted to deep tissue massage and next to it is a well-lit body waxing room. An added bonus is an organic herb garden from which Gates plucks lemon balm and mint for refreshing foot soaks as part of pedicures. Gates also noted that there are enough amenities and space to hold bridal and baby showers at the spa. Dermatologist Dr. Paul Thompson owns the building.
“I think people recognize the extra touches we provide,” Gates said. “This is a ‘lady of leisure’ location and we do buy the best equipment and products.”
Tender Touches has a menu of facials and other treatments to achieve a more youthful appearance and to address medical skin issues such as acne and rosacea. Gates has advanced certification in medical-grade chemical peels, as well.
Once all the restaurant equipment is sold, Gates plans to install a steam and sauna area in the former kitchen.
“We are a true spa — Tender Touches at Cedar Creek is a place where we focus on the experience of coming, not just the treatments being done,” Gates said. “The difference between us and most places is we’re private. Our services are all very one-on-one and our emphasis is on the details.”
Tender Touches’ employees are Richelle Rolland, receptionist; Lori Butler, spa assistant; Kayla Twiggs, nail technician; Cindy Kelly, massage therapist; Andrea Burgett and Gates, aestheticians.
