Brew & Renew
In 2009, the economy was anything but conducive to opening a business dependent on discretionary income, but that didn’t stop Jenna Walden. She started Anjou Spa in Bend during that year of soaring unemployment, hiring a dozen people. Lured by the Central Oregon sun and a local culture with outdoor recreation at its core, she took a chance and succeeded. “It was a challenge to open up during such a tough economy, but we felt strongly our values aligned with the community and kept at it,” she said. The spa caters to the area’s health-conscious and craft beer-loving character, offering everything from organic products for the skin to treatments that incorporate the wellness properties of hops and barley. But it doesn’t stop there. Guests sip a cold one from GoodLife Brewing, kombucha that’s made locally or a marionberry royale as part of the therapeutic experience. Massages include complimentary aromatherapy and facials include organic boosters.
The focus is on enhancing a sense of well-being as well as rebounding from outdoor pursuits or the daily grind. “The Pacific Northwest is just an amazing, gorgeous region – so abundant and full of creative people,” said Walden. “Central Oregon is the sun spot of the Northwest, and who doesn’t crave sun? But what I love most about Central Oregon are the lifestyle priorities of staying healthy and active and showing appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. We’re stewards and partners of the land rather than just users. I really value that perspective.”
The spa’s commitment to health and the environment is evident in services such as a new gel manicure without carcinogenic chemicals. “It’s unique and the only way Anjou would bring gel manicures on board,” Walden said. Originally from Portland, Walden had been splitting her time between Seattle and Bend since 2009. She and her husband moved to Bend full time last fall. “I recently purchased an inflatable standup paddleboard, which has been great fun, and we’re dipping our toes in every activity possible,” she said. Camping, hiking and tennis are her other favorite activities. In between, she tries to find time for a mani-pedi.
Source: Cascade Sotheby’s Realty
