The First Day Spa in the United States
March, 1984, Sanctuary Spa began as Sanctuary Beauty Institute, founded and operated by Brea Gratia, Naturopathic Doctor (ND in 2006). Services provided were facials, massage and body treatments utilizing hydrotherapeutic principles. In March of 1987 expansion of the spa included a proper hydrotherapy tub and nail services with an expanded service menu.

As a visionary, Brea opened the first true day spa in the United States. An industry trade journal gives credit to a Connecticut salon/spa as the first spa to open in 1985. A full service hair salon is typically focused with hair dressing, rather than the spa experience. You can be assured, Sanctuary Spa is a true day spa, focusing our energies on knowledge of the skin body and providing the highest quality spa services.
 

BREA & SANCTUARY IN THE PRESS

With several years of body & hydrotherapy services, Brea's Sanctuary Spa been nationally recognized as a true therapeutic spa. August 1991, Vogue Magazine and Les Nouvelle Esthetique Magazine called within the same week to inquire about services and philosophies. Vogue's article on Holistic Therapies appeared in the December, 1991 issue. The following year, Brea was asked to contribute to numerous articles regarding aromatherapy and cellulite in issues of Les Nouvelle Esthetique, and in October, 1992, an article appeared in Town and Country Magazine about Sanctuary Spa.

In August 1996, Allure Magazine gave recognition to Brea and her Sanctuary Spa as "one of the best facials in the country." The October 1999 issue of Travel & Leisure Magazine named Sanctuary d' Sante (Sanctuary of Health) as "one of America's best day spas." The October 18, 1999 issue of Time Magazine gave a highlighted "thumbs up" to the "tony" Sanctuary Spa. Mode M (a new internet magazine in London) gave recognition and Eve.com featured the Spa in their Beauty City piece for Houston.