So much has changed over the last few years, from my availability to demand for massage. With the beginning of 2022, it is time for me to update my cancellation policy. 

  Let's get candid about cancellations for a sec. 

  2022 will mark my 12th year as a massage therapist, as well as my fourth year with Evolve. During that time, I have very rarely had issues with cancellations. And if they do happen, it is not usually a problem to fill an open spot, especially if I know a few days in advance. 
  I am also quite lenient about cancellations. I always have been because for the most part my clients are respectful of my time. And I completely understand that sometimes things happen that are outside of our control. Illnesses, accidents, unexpected responsibilities, etc. But... these haven't been majority of last minute cancellations- and is why I have taken note. Many of my last minute openings have been because of reasons that have been known for a while (such as vacations, appointment conflicts, work schedules, etc) and could have been taken care of weeks earlier. 

  But over the last 2 or 3 months, I have started to feel like my leniency has been taken for granted at times. Most everyone knows that I work alone and do not have a receptionist, so if a last minute cancellation comes in, it is almost impossible for me to fill (I can't be massaging one person and be on the phone with another, after all!). Considering I book out about 3 months, this means there are new clients or people in pain who are unable to schedule, who otherwise would have been able to! It is not fun to turn away someone who is in need, especially if I could have scheduled them if I'd known about an open spot sooner. 
 
  Therefore, I am updating my cancellation policy to the following: 

-Cancellations are required 48 hours in advance: Everyone receives a reminder text 48 hours before their appointment. This is not something I do manually- my software automatically sends texts (and indicates to me that they've been received). This is the point where a cancellation needs to take place. This will give me plenty of time to go through my waiting list and contact someone who is trying to get in.

-Cancellation Fees: Since opening Evolve I have, technically, had a cancellation fee in place- but honestly, I have only used it on ONE occasion (and that was when it affected someone working for me, not just me). Going forward, cancellations less than 48 hours in advance with be subject to half the charge of the scheduled appointment, which will be added on to the next appointment. 
  No shows will result in a charge of the entire appointment cost, which also will need to be paid before scheduling the next appointment. Repeat no-shows an frequent cancellations may result in a credit card needing to be on file in order to schedule. 

  Please let me be clear- I DO NOT want to charge cancellation fees. And I also do not want to require cards in order to book. But I also recognize that I am quite a pushover when it comes to last minute cancellations and there is a need to put my foot down (even if I don't want to!). I am hoping that going forward, these new policies will clear up any cancellation issues I have been experiencing and we won't have to go on to the next steps. I don't anticipate having to do that, considering this is the first time in 12 years I have felt the need to update these policies. 

  One more suggestion from me as to how to avoid these unwanted and last minute changes- before leaving my office put your scheduled appointments in your phone or planner. Many times, we rely on the reminder texts. But if we rely on only those, that sets us up to overbook ourselves and then have to cancel last minute. Plan ahead, and don't rely on the text!

  If there are any questions, please feel free to contact me any time!

  Happy New Year- I look forward to seeing all your faces (hopefully soon unmasked) in 2022! 

  I've been teasing everyone for a month and now I can reveal ALL my holiday goodies for 2021- including a Gift Card Special!

  Before we delve into the exciting stuff I have an important update: I will be CLOSED the entire week before Christmas. But I will be OPEN on Christmas Eve from 10am to 1pm. You will still be able to call or email me during that week so I can get gifts ready and arrange pick up times or online orders. Don't worry! I just won't be available for in-office pick ups until Christmas Eve.  

2021 Holiday Gift Card Special:
  I am so excited to announce my very first Yomassage special! After these past two crazy, hectic, chaotic years, we are so in need of stress-management, relaxation, and time for ourselves. Yomassage is a perfect combination of yoga, massage, and meditation, creating the ultimate relaxation experience. 
  This year's gift card special is a private Yomassage session for 2. A great gift for mom & dad, your bestie, or your S.O. Private sessions are normally $100, but this gift card is available for only $75!
​There are no purchase limits, they are available for new and existing clients, and this special is available in-office only until 12/31.

Online Gift Card Information:
  I had hoped to open up my gift cards to everyone this holiday season but with my schedule the way it is I just cannot do that! However, gift cards are available for existing clients. To purchase, just give me a call or send an email, I will verify that your loved one is a current client, and then I will either send you the gift card link or arrange a pick-up time for you.
(Please note that the Yomassage gift card special is available to everyone, including new clients!)  

Holiday Products:
  Last month I announced that Busy Bobbin had her Christmas craft items at the office. Though the collection has thinned out quite a bit, there are still a few things available such as: Adult Santa Gloves and Boot Cuffs, Wine Bottle Holders, and Felt Gift Bags.
  Holiday Teas from TeaForte are now available in their mini samplers (and we do have a coaster set of 4 from Busy Bobbin!). Perfect flavors for an indulgent winter cup! 
  And last but not least, our Heat Wraps are back! All of our designs are in stock, from the Neck and Shoulder design, to the sets of Mini Handwarmers. These make perfect gifts for that person on your list who is difficult to buy for ;)

  Feel free to contact me any time with questions, gift card inquiries, or to hold or pick up items. 

  Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

  Earlier in 2021 I had to stop offering gift cards because my schedule was so full I could not get new clients in! I had hoped to re-open them to the public during the holidays but with the way my schedule is going, that just isn't possible. 
  However, gift cards are available to existing clients! If you would like to purchase a gift card for your loved one, simply contact me via phone or email. I will verify that they are, indeed, a current client of mine. After that I will either set up a time for you to come pick it up, or I will send you the link to my online gift cards. 

*Please also note that for the 2021 Holiday Season, Evolve will be closed the week before Christmas but will be open Christmas Eve from 10am-1pm for gift card pick ups. 

Feel free to call me at 315-717-6192 or send me an email at evolvemassageandwellness@gmail.com for more details or to purchase. Happy Holidays!

  It's the most wonderful time of the year! Or at least, it is my favorite time of the year. The energy in the atmosphere is so exciting, it's an excuse to have fun parties, make delicious food, put up cute decorations, and just enjoy being in the moment.
  I am most excited to reveal all my holiday products from Busy Bobbin. Most of you are familiar with Terri, our favorite local crafter (and also, my mom). Many of our beloved area craft shows have been cancelled once again, so I will have several of her holiday craft items available throughout the season, including:

-Crocheted Holiday Gloves
-Crocheted Holiday Boot Cuffs
-Christmas Wine Bottle Holders
-Decorative Holiday Coasters
-Holiday Felt Gift Bags  

  This also means that HEAT WRAPS ARE BACK! I have several new ones available in all sizes, including the popular Neck and Shoulder design. Supply is limited, if you'd like to purchase one you may want to reach out to me sooner rather than later! You can check out more designs by visiting Busy Bobbin's Facebook page.

  I also have an important announcement regarding gift certificates. If you've kept up with me on social media or via my newsletters you may know that several months ago I closed my gift cards to the public. I had hoped to reopen them during the holiday season but unfortunately I am not going to be able to do that. Considering that right now I am still unable to take new clients, I cannot in good conscience allow people to purchase gift cards if I can't guarantee that the recipients will be able to use them in a timely fashion. 
  However, gift cards will be available for existing clients. If you would like to purchase a gift card, simply give me a call or send me a message and I will confirm that the recipient is an existing client and send you the link for the online gift cards, or provide you with the times I am available so you can come pick one up.

  I will have a special gift card offer involving Yomassage will begin in December!! But--- you'll have to wait until next month to find out the details on that. In the meantime, enjoy the beginning of the holiday season and have a Happy Thanksgiving!   

 Hello Summer! School is out, the sun is (sometimes) shining, and life is slowly returning to normal. We all deserve a break from the hustle and bustle of every day life, I hope you all have made summer vacation plans. Can't wait to hear all about them!

  I am SO excited because I am gearing up to introduce something completely new to Evolve. Last month I took an extensive class that involves something that no one in the area currently offers! I'm not completely ready to make the full announcement yet but I can tease a few details:

  -It will be offered as a private session or in a class setting

  -It primarily focuses on relieving stress/anxiety while activating "feel-good" hormones

  -My office is getting a total redesign to create a new space for classes 

  Check back August 1st for a Full Announcement!

​ 
​Meanwhile, I have been hearing so many people say that their allergies are out of control this year! Mine have been as well, so this month I am featuring some of TeaForte's green teas- specifically Defense and Jasmine Green. Antioxidants in green tea have been shown to help with immune-system response. Pair it with local honey for an allergy-defeating elixir! This month, receive a 4oz jar of local Williams Honey with any tea purchase (while supplies last).

  It's almost summer - which means it's time for a sizzling sale on Heat Wraps! 25% off from now until June 19th. These make great Father's Day gifts! 

  I have a few important updates this month. First, just a heads up that my schedule is a little more limited for the next few weeks due to a month-long class I am taking. It may take me longer than usual to respond to messages, but I will always get back to you!

  This month, I've had to make a few major changes that everyone needs to be aware of. I am currently booking about 3 1/2 months in advance. While I am happy that my schedule is so full and stable, I have been contemplating if it is wise for me to keep scheduling new clients. As of right now, I am only adding new clients to my cancellation list. 3 1/2 months is just too far to confidently schedule appointments, though I do not mind doing that for current clients who have an established routine. I realize this is inconvenient, and I very much appreciate everyone's referrals! But this is what is best for right now. 

  In addition, I have also decided to halt gift card sales. This is so I can avoid running into an unethical situation of turning away someone new who already has a gift certificate. Please check out all the details here.    

  Also some really great news: A NEW MASK POLICY! In accordance with NYS guidelines, vaccinated individuals may go mask-free, if desired.

  I look forward to seeing all your smiling faces this month!
  

  Hi everyone! I have a very important update regarding gift cards. For the time being, I have to temporarily stop the sale of gift cards, online and in-office. One exception being if you wish to purchase a gift card for an existing, scheduled client. 

  This is a very unusual decision, so I would like to explain very honestly:

  Since the shutdown last year, so much has changed. Business has boomed, which is a wonderful thing and I am so grateful! If there has been one silver-lining to this pandemic, it is that people are making better decisions about their health, and are much more concerned with taking steps toward a healthy lifestyle. Regular massage can be an amazing tool in a wellness routine, and interest has grown exponentially over the last year. 

  However, with this growth I have found myself in a bit of a predicament. I am only one person, and my scheduled is filled to capacity. Right now I am booking about 3 1/2 to 4 months in advance! I am very strict with my schedule, I know exactly how much I can handle, so opening up more appointment times is not possible. I love the referrals, I love being able to take new clients, but it is almost impossible to confidently schedule 4 months out. 

  Right now, I am not booking new clients and instead I am putting them on my cancellation list. This, of course, is not reliable. With us getting more control over Covid, our schedules are stabilizing, and my cancellation rate is going way down. Rarely do I have a cancellation on a Saturday or an evening, and those are the most popular appointment times. 

  Gift Cards complicate this matter. Over the last few months, many people who are not currently clients have received gift cards. I cannot in good conscience refuse to schedule them, I feel that would be unethical. But they will have to schedule so far in advance it is not practical for most people. This is why I have chosen to temporarily suspend gift card sales. I don't want people purchasing a gift card for a loved one only to have them be told they may not be able to schedule. This is unfair.

  I am currently working on a few new things that will hopefully allow me to treat more people, but those plans won't come to fruition for a few months. Please be patient with me during this time! I will definitely be reopening gift card sales by the holidays, and they will continue to be an in-office option for existing clients. 

  If you have any questions, please feel free to call me at 315-717-6192 or send me an email at evolvemassageandwellness@gmail.com

  It's almost Mother's Day! Evolve has several new additions this month, all designed to celebrate Mom!

  First, 75 Minute Massage Gift cards are back! This is a perfect gift for Mom (or you!) to add a little extra time to an hour massage. This session is available only with this gift card, and cannot be used the same day as purchased. There is a very limited quantity, and they are ONLY on sale until Saturday, May 8th. Please call 315-717-6192 or email at evolvemassageandwellness@gmail.com to reserve and set up a pick-up time.


 
  New teas and teaware! After focusing on black teas and the Wellbeing collection over the last few months, I felt it was time to introduce something perfect for spring- Green tea! My featured tea this month is Jasmine Green, deliciously fresh and floral. This is one of my personal favorites! Perfect for a rainy spring day. Along with the featured tea, I now have a sampler of 5 green teas, including the Jasmine Green. 10 infusers in a box, 2 of each kind. Lastly, I now have Stainless Steel Tea Infusers. Until now I have been giving out little free ones with Loose Leaf purchases and thought they are ok they are not very good.  These new infusers are very high-quality, and will ensure that no tea leaves end up in your cup!

  Check out my list below for pricing info:

 
It's Spring! And I am ready for rainy days, warmer weather, and flowers!
  We just got back from a trip to Texas to see my baby bro and my year and a half old nephew. This was my first time meeting my nephew in person!

  In addition to the family time, we took a few days to relax in Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas. This was the peak time to visit Garvan Gardens- thousands of tulips in full bloom! It was so refreshing to see and is the inspiration behind my April featured teas. 

Yes, I said "teas" because I could not decide on just one. Instead, I'm featuring the entire Wellbeing Collection. The collection consists of 5 wellness teas, and you can now purchase them individually for just $2 each. Try the whole collection, mix and match your favs. 

  In addition to the Wellbeing Collection I also have something really special- Single Serve Matcha! Matcha is a powdered green tea that has been used ceremonially in Japan for centuries and has many health benefits. As a tea lover, I was intrigued by the idea of Matcha but did not want my first experience to be from a fast food shop. So I purchased some from TeaForte and loved it. The Pure Matcha is definitely my favorite, but there are several blends to choose from, including Chocolate, Coconut, Chai, and Ginger. These are also available for just $2 each, and I'll give you instructions on how to properly prepare it. 

  Scheduling Update: I am now booking into late June/early July. June availability is tighter than usual because I will be taking a class that entire month which limits some of my evening availability. It will be well worth it, and I cannot wait to share this new venture with you... expect updates throughout the summer!

  These are the next available dates as of April 1, 2021:

  Day: Friday, June 11th
  Evening: Monday, July 5th
  Weekend: Saturday, June 19th (only for a 30 minute spot) 

  Please keep these dates in mind when calling to schedule. Waiting lists are available!

  If you haven't already, make sure to follow me on Facebook or Instagram for daily updates to the schedule, and for updates throughout the month!    

  Happy March! This month marks one year since our lives were completely turned upside down. I know my life, personally and professionally, is drastically different, and I am sure yours is, too!
  There are a few important updates to be aware of this month. 
  First, I want to address my current schedule and availability. As of right now (March 1st) my evenings and Saturdays are booked until June and days are booked out until May. If you do not have a scheduled appointment, please be aware that when you call it will likely be several weeks (or even months) before I am able to book you in. However, we can always put you on a cancellation list. My advice is to not wait to book your appointments! And it is also a good idea for us to book several out, if you need to be on a routine schedule. 
  My weekend availability has recently changed. I am now only available every other Saturday. This, of course, limits the appointments I can take and pushes out available times. But it was a very necessary change for me to make in my life that not only serves me, but ensures a quality experience for all my clients.  

  Since my schedule is so full, it has allowed me to consider new wellness additions to Evolve- and I'd love your help! Recently I began offering some products for retail,. Please feel free to take my quick Product Survey! It will help me be able to tailor products to my clients' needs. All feedback is appreciated. Take the survey here.

  My featured TeaForte tea for March is a classic- English Breakfast! This is a rich, bold Assam tea that will be a perfect way to begin your morning. It is available as a Loose Leaf tea or in the Black Tea Collection. Last month's featured tea, Orchid Vanilla, completely sold out but is also available in the Collection. Defense, an immune-system supporting green tea, is also available in Loose Leaf or in the Wellbeing Collection. 

  Lastly, our Heat Wraps are back! Newly stocked Neck and Shoulders, as well as Spinals, Knee Sized, and Minis! Limited supply, but I will hold an order for you if needed.  

  Let's fight cabin fever by making sure we are energized, healthy, and pain free this month!