I just returned from a 60-minute massage and have mixed feelings about Purple Pear. The Good: I have not had a massage in quite a while, and truth be told I'm not a huge fan of them, so I was a bit... Read More
I just returned from a 60-minute massage and have mixed feelings about Purple Pear. The Good: I have not had a massage in quite a while, and truth be told I'm not a huge fan of them, so I was a bit apprehensive about the one I scheduled with Samantha. However, I felt she listened very well and read my body well. Her pressure was firm, and she was able to work out a lot of tension from my shoulders. I enjoyed the eucalyptus oil she used (and the fact that this place sells Mountain Rose Herbs essential oils), as well as her pleasant and calming demeanor. The room was too cold for my taste, but it was a large room and I don't think she could control the heat. I was very happy with Samantha's treatment, and if it were not for her great service I would give this place 1 star.The Bad:Their website claims "We also bill most insurance companies as well as Workers Compensation and Auto Accidents." However, when I offered my insurance card I was told I would still have to pay for today's massage up-front while they see if my insurance is accepted. If it is, then I would receive a credit for future use. I don't fully understand this concept; if my insurance does cover the cost then I won't be paying for future treatments anyway, so how does a credit benefit me? Either way, this was information I felt should have been conveyed over the phone when I made the appointment so they could check this ahead of time. Not a huge deal, but a bit irksome.The real downer came after my massage. I was feeling great, happy with my therapist, and already thinking about the next time I wanted to come in. Then I paid for my service (and of course included a tip) with an airline credit card. The woman working the front desk was in training with their new card machine, and the (presumable) owner was with her. After she swiped my card the owner very loudly exclaimed to this woman that she always tries to encourage the use of debit cards instead of credit. She proceeded to complain about the fees and the $250 annual charge she has to pay. I immediately felt guilty. Having owned a small business myself, I suggested the card processor I've used and shared their fees, to which she scoffed and stated her fees were much, much lower. If so, why is she complaining? In fact, why is she discussing this issue in front of a new client, or any client for that matter? It made me very uncomfortable and uneasy. No one wants to feel they are causing undue stress to someone, or that the business they bring is a burden. All of those happy, euphoric feelings from my massage were now goneI loved the organic oils, the actual massage, and the location (close to home), but the lack of professionalism from the front desk left me feeling awkward and unwelcome. I will take my money to a business that actually wants it, no matter what form it comes in. Read Less