I had my first experience at Hand and Stone last Friday, and for me, it was truly a five star…read moreexperience. A little information before my full review - I came in because I received a gift card for a massage (or facial, but I opted for the massage). Also, I am the type of person to weigh both the good and bad when it comes to my experience - don't let that deter you, my experience was 95% positive.
When it comes to massages, the most important question is: Is the massage good? Well, the massage was better than good - it was AMAZING! After reading some of the reviews online, I booked ahead (day-of) with Nelson. [They do accept walk-ins, but I would for sure book ahead. It's a very easy process online.] Nelson was magical. His hands are gold! I felt completely at ease with him the entire time. Nelson's pressure was perfect, and he was even able to sense when his pressure was a little too hard for me, without me saying a word. Very impressive! Also, I upgraded to the 'hot stone' massage - holy crap, excellent. It may not be for everyone, because the masseuse does have to pause every now and again to grab the hot stones. The little pauses did break up the flow of the appointment, but the trade-off is having an amazing experience. I can happily say that after my appointment, I was completely relaxed, rejuvenated, and a lot less stiff.
The place itself it lovely, too. The ambiance and the atmosphere are on point. The desk staff felt genuinely accommodating. If I have the opportunity to return here, I would.
This is where that 5% comes in. It seems that Hand and Stone is a membership-based business, and while that may work for some people, it does not work for me. Judging by the reviews, others seem to have the same annoyance, and that's where the negative reviews are coming in. The prices offered on their website are first-visit only prices. Once you visit, the prices go up unless you are a member. Membership is initially 40 dollars, and then 70 dollars a month - which entitles you to one base massage or facial per month. [The Edgewater location was offering a promotion on this price, which was nice, but bear in mind that is an exception] That's great if you can make it in once per month, but many people do not have this luxury. While the membership credits do roll over to the next month, what happens when several massages are accumulated? If you can't make it once per month, there is no way that you're going to use up five massage credits in one month to make up for that accumulation.
This is absolutely AT NO FAULT of the Edgewater staff and location, it is simply the business model of the company - albeit, not a very good one in my opinion. The desk staff very sweetly but firmly tried to sell me the membership, which I totally respect - but again, this is after coming out of a massage and being 'in the zone.' I don't really want to be bombarded with business questions - and dude, I was in a haze because I was so relaxed, let me tell you! [Sorry for being so loopy, girls!]
Anyway, bottom line is this - you want an excellent massage? Hand and Stone is the place. You are absolutely paying for a luxury experience. However, do keep in mind Hand and Stone's business model. And yes...you can go to Fort Lee a few miles away, and receive a 'no frills' 40 dollar, full body massage - but it will not have the same vibe and personal touch of this place.
If there are ever discount packages available, I will happily purchase so that I can treat myself. I DO want to return to this place, because ultimately, the experience was amazing.