I'm not usually one to give negative reviews, as a matter of fact, I'd rather give no review than to leave a negative one however, this business practice left me very frustrated!
During COVID-19, 2020, I received quite a few emails from local businesses offering discounts on their products and services of which Elements was one. In an effort to support local business and ease my aching back pain I purchased the package listed below. Once restrictions were lifted, I called the business to set up my first of TWO massage appointments. My package very clearly states "Buy a 90 minute massage and get a 60 minute massage for free" (see photo). This was my deciding factor in purchasing. I first tried to schedule via their online portal after receiving an email about openings. This was unsuccessful. I then called and was greeted by a very pleasant voice. I explained to her that I needed to book a 90 minute massage and expressed my preference for a female therapist that was certified in deep pressure. So far, so good. I then explained that I had purchased a package online for a 90 minute with the addition of a 60 minute and there was silence on the other end. When I finally received a response I was asked if this was a gift card? I told her that it was an offer that came through an email sent by them. Again, silence, then "Hmmm......was it Groupon? Because we don't take Groupon". I told her that I had a copy of my receipt where I paid $129.00 and the offer code that I could bring in. We got the appointment scheduled and agreed I'd bring my receipt. I had to cancel my first appointment due to catching a bug from my grandchildren and running a low grade fever. This was done well within the 24 hour window that they require. I called back after two weeks and rescheduled.
I just had my appointment last week and, overall, it was a pleasant experience. The facility was very clean, the staff friendly upon arrival and my therapist was wonderful! When checking out I presented my paid receipt to the receptionist and she processed my tip for my therapist and then handed me my receipt. She asked if I wanted to schedule again and I said yes, reminding her that I should still have a 60 minute session per my offer code. She quietly scheduled me telling me I was "all set". Just to be absolutely sure that I was getting what I paid for, I requested a print out confirming my promised 60 minute free session. She took a few minutes, couldn't figure it out and then went to the back to get someone to help her figure it out. When the person came out from the back she informed me that this was a Groupon offer and that it expired 90 days after purchase and that they couldn't honor it. But, wait a minute......I thought you didn't take Groupon!?! And the offer came through an email to me directly from Elements Massage!!! Extremely frustrating!!!! I didn't make a fuss, as that's not generally in my nature, but I did tell them that I was frustrated because the only reason I purchased their offer was because of the two for one deal they were offering!
One last little observation. As I was waiting for them to straighten things out, I had ample time to read the current offers on their board. Their non-member price for a 60 minute massage is $99 and if you're a member it's $69. There is another franchise in our area and they are offering a non-member intro rate of $69 and their member rate is $59. Huge difference over time.
Think I'll be taking my business elsewhere. read more