Ahlara International Day Spa and Boutique — Attraction in Mooresville

Two weeks ago I called and scheduled an appointment for 12:30. I gave them my home phone # and cell #. When I arrived at 12:10, I was whisked in and told that the appointment was for 12:00--that they had to change it and they texted me. I told them that I'd never received a text and they told me the number they texted--a phone number that I haven't had in 5 years. Apparently they didn't update my info when I made my appointment. They called my home line yesterday to confirm the appointment, but spoke with my husband and said nothing about changing the appointment time. That should have been explicitly stated. I tried to ask questions, but the front desk ladies were like, "Let's go, Let's go. We need to get started!"

About 3 minutes into the massage, I told the massuse that I was sorry, but I wasn't in the right frame of mind for a massage. I was very upset that they hadn't made contact with me. When a business makes a change to an appointment, they need to make two-way contact with customer. A text that isn't responded to isn't confirmation. Calling someone's husband to confirm an appointment and not mentioning that the time has been adjusted isn't acceptable.

I tipped the massuse because it wasn't her fault and I understand that this is her income, and spoke to the manager, saying that this shouldn't be standard business practice. She said that they did make contact with me and, "It seems there has been a breakdown in the communication." That's not even true. THEY NEVER NOTIFIED ME THAT THE TIME HAD BEEN CHANGED. They sent a text to cyberspace and said nothing to my husband about it. The manager could have at least said, "I'm sorry. We regret this happened." She was very unprofessional and nonchalant. She could have cared less. She did nothing to try to make it right.

Ahlara's handling of this situation was rushing me into a spa experience and telling me that it'd only be cut short by 5 minutes.

This was on our anniversary weekend. ...

Ahlara International was a credible recommendation from a client. The atmosphere is lovely! Three weeks ago I went in for my first experience & facial with Anna which was fine & my face felt great. I purchased the suggested exfoliant as well as booked & paid for a future service. After reading the label ( I never do ) clearly stated “this product will enhance sunburn). Having sensitive skin paired with rosacea alongside an outdoor driven career, I wasn’t willing to risk the irritation. I called Ahlara inquiring on the return policy for an unopened, perfectly packaged product. The kind lady at the desk double checked with a colleague and assured me I could return and a gift card would be issued & applied to other products or services. Great! Yesterday, I returned for my scheduled service with product in hand for a return. Again, the kind, blonde lady at the desk helped! The conversation quickly soured when the “cool dude” interjected his condescending authority telling me that a gift card would be issued and NOT applied towards todays service & quickly turned away no questions asked, end of conversation.. I’m certain the kind lady was as uncomfortable as I was. I wasn’t going to purchase any products so I’m browsing the boutique to spend the credit. I hear the same “cool dude” being syrupy nice to another client who is clearly spending money. As a business owner, I would NEVER speak to a client in that fashion… I was sick to my stomach. I immediately knew there’s no way I’m returning to a business where I’m treated less than. I found a couple gifts with money remaining on credit. At checkout I kindly asked the sweet lady to use my credit or please share it with someone else. Making someone feel less than can ruin the nicest atmosphere.. Ahlara, I’m not seeking the default...

I was a bit hesitant to try this spa due to their response to some of the reviews, but I’m glad I did. Enjoyed the Harmony Package, which I think is now phased out as they let me know they will not be doing nails anymore. I had a 60 minute massage with Anjani Perez and it was amazing! She asked me my preferences and really focused on problem areas I mentioned. Probably the best massage I’ve had. Next, I had a facial with Cece Heller, who was so nice and delightful. She asked me about my skin and explained each step during the process. Absolutely amazing head massage with the Sphinx facial. Then I had lunch and was surprised with how good it was. Lastly, I had a mani/pedi. This was great, but nothing too exceptional or better than a normal nail salon, so I wasn’t sad to hear it was phasing out. The robes were nice and thick, though maybe a bit aged or just faded. Overall, I really enjoyed my services and the ladies up front were so kind.

Why 4 stars instead of 5?

The decor felt a bit dated, but the theme may be the culprit for that. The locker room was small and a bit cramped with more than 2 people in there. The “zen den” is pretty much just a themed waiting room. Also because of the layout, you may hear other clients or workers talking outside the rooms as they walk by. But the services really made up for most of this.

My only other spa experience is with Grove Park, so this is obviously not in the same league. But it is definitely steps above massage envy or something like that. I’ll be returning when I want a local and affordable option for great massages and facials and don’t need the extra amenities of a larger spa. And I’ll mostly be returning because of...