Meet Our Team | Scents of Serenity Organic Spa

Melanie Mueller - Founder + Owner

Melanie Mueller is the founder and owner of one of the most unique spas in Richmond, VA. Melanie was born in Germany and was raised with a deep sense of organic and natural living. It was her holistic roots that inspired her to open Richmond’s first organic spa. Her vision is reflected in all that was put forth in creating an environment that appeals to all the senses. Combining her passion for interior design and all things organic, she created each location with a calming balance that begins the moment you walk through the doors. Melanie felt Richmond was missing a destination spa atmosphere that offered guests a relaxing and peaceful haven, a place to escape and enjoy the beauty and tranquility that you often see in a resort without having to travel to get there. “Our guests deserve the most luxurious spa services, finest organic products, offered in the most unique and tranquil environment and can trust that we have their very best interest in mind.” Each product line offered at Scents of Serenity believes strongly in conserving the environment, reducing their carbon footprint, and giving back. Melanie is passionate about serving and supporting her community and proudly supports Stop Child Abuse Now (Great Richmond SCAN) and Safe Harbor who works to combat human tracking and domestic violence. She currently serves on the Advisory Board for SCAN and the Communications Committee for Safe Harbor. “Scents of Serenity was built around a commitment to empowering humans and that extends from the treatment room to the community.”

Rae - Spa Director

Prior to her many years in hospitality management at a well-known Virginia Winery, Rae was a Certified Massage Therapist and Esthetician practicing in her hometown of Fredericksburg, VA. Her experience in both the spa industry as well as guest services makes her a dynamic part of the Scents of Serenity team. Rae is well versed in our luxurious spa treatments and enjoys working with our fabulous guests, making sure each and every person has a 5-star spa experience from start to finish. Whether you are looking to plan a private spa party such as bachelorette or bridal shower or you wish to escape on your own, Rae is here to make your experience seamless. In her spare time, she focuses on her studies of herbalism and enjoys good food, good company and a good glass of wine!

Morgan - Spa Manager

Morgan has a background of both guest services and management within a spa setting. She loves making people feel comfortable and cared for from the moment they step foot into the spa. Morgan takes pride in guaranteeing that one’s time spent at Scents of Serenity will be nothing short of exceptional. Having problematic skin since she was young, she has a passion for skincare. She enjoys assisting clients in our retail area and making recommendations for products suitable for their skin type. During her free time, she enjoys journaling, learning new makeup techniques and spending time with her dog, friends, and family.

Maureen - Spa Manager

Bio coming soon!

Stephanie - Marketing + PR

Born and raised in Richmond, Virginia, Stephanie’s extensive background in the hospitality industry has allowed her to work and live in various locations across the county. She has successfully developed marketing tactics and expanded profitability for major corporations and agencies. Stephanie’s desire to join the Scents of Serenity team was solidified after her first treatment. “It seemed like a natural fit to join the talented team at Scents of Serenity where I could utilize my skills and be a part of the growth within such an amazing company.” Stephanie truly values the importance of building meaningful relationships with local businesses who hold similar values as Scents of Serenity. Stephanie and her family relocated to Glen Allen from Washington, D.C. in 2018, where she and husband spend their free time with their four year old son and one year old daughter.

Andrea - Lead Guest Service Coordinator + Trainer

Beginning in 2006, Andrea has been managing salons & day spas throughout New York City, as well as in Asheville, NC. The spa industry culture has always charmed her, from the social interactions with Clientele to the personal collaboration with talented & eclectic individuals. She has always found true enjoyment in providing a pleasant and relaxing environment for all to enjoy. Andrea began performing in bands in 2008 and has been the drummer of The Chickenhawks (garage/surf-rock) for the past 6 years. Each musical tour she has ever taken has brought her to Richmond, which quickly stole her heart and became her favorite place to visit. Andrea moved to Richmond with her family in early Spring of 2019. During the months leading up to their arrival, she knew she wanted to join the Team at Scents of Serenity!

Andrea and her partner, Sam, are greatly excited to raise their children in this beautiful town, surrounded by such a genuine community. She feels right at home at Scents of Serenity and is looking forward to her future growth with our team.

Alexa - Massage Therapist

Specializes in: Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Myofascial Release Therapy, Cupping, Craniosacral Therapy, Medial Massage + Deep Tissue Massage

Alexa is a happily Certified Massage Therapist who has spent many years in Big Island Hawaii, where she taught yoga and practiced massage. She brings with her the spirit of Aloha; an energy and intention of peace, love, breath, and light, as well as a deep connection to All That Is. This energy nourishes, calms, and brightens our bodies, and the effect can be felt in her work. Alexa undersands the benefits of massage, as she has received many forms of bodywork and alternative therapies throughout her life. In doing so, she has been able to overcome significant injury and trauma. It brings great joy and fulfillment to Alexa to be a part of others’ journey to peace, health, and happiness. Alexa is a practicing Pranic Healer and yogini and understands the importance of clean energy. “I believe we all have a light, and are most healthy when we are aligned with it.” Alexa is experienced in many modalities within alternative medicine and bodywork to include Swedish Massage, Hot Stone, Prenatal, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Deep Tissue, Myofascial Release and Cranial Sacral bodywork. Her study of healing has been a life-long journey, and she is truly grateful to be able to give back all that she has gained and learned throughout her personal and professional experience. Alexa offers a unique touch and enjoys customizing each of our guests massage to fit their individual needs. Her ultimate goal is to allow each and everyone a space for healing and internal balance.

Jackie C - Massage Therapist + Trainer

Bio coming soon!

Jackie - Massage Therapist + Trainer

Specializes in: Pregnancy Massage + Relaxation Massage

Jackie comes to Scents of Serenity from Mynd (formerly Red Door Spa), where she worked for almost 15 years! She is excited about her new career at Scents of Serenity and looks forward to providing our amazing spa services to her guests. So far, her favorite services on the menu are the Mindful Moments Massage, the Serenity Signature Massage, Herbal Compress Massage and anything with an aromatherapy enhancement. Jackie grew up in Fredericksburg, VA and then went to Radford University to study Anthropology and English. She moved to Richmond in 2000 after she graduated and started working at Joe’s Inn which she boasts as the best restaurant job ever! Her plan was to wait tables for a while and save money for grad school, but the plan changed when she wandered into the American Institute of Massage one day, which was located close to where she was living and working. In college she had taken the Myers-Briggs personality test and massage therapist had been at the top of the list for careers she would be good at, which had always intrigued her. Now that she was living in a bigger city, it seemed like the opportunity presented itself at the perfect time. She started school a few weeks later and never looked back. Massage was a perfect fit for her. Jackie began studying Reiki in 2002 with a traditional master and believes that it is Reiki that makes her massage work unique. She is trained in the traditional Usui System of Reiki Healing and loves combining the healing energy into her massages.

Audrey - Massage Therapist + Trainer

Specializes in: Pregnancy Massage + Relaxation Massage

Originally from Long Island, Audrey moved to Virginia in 2013 and never looked back! Having a background in dance and yoga, she decided to add to her education and pursue massage therapy. Audrey enjoys giving her clients a relaxing and positive experience. “I give 120% during every session, staying completely focused on my client and what they need to receive from the massage session.” Audrey enjoys setting intentions and utilizing positive energy work in her sessions. Aside from massage, Audrey is passionate about birth, new moms and navigating the world of pregnancy and motherhood from the birthing process to postpartum. Being a mother of two, a girl and a boy with each having had the opposite of pregnancy and birthing experiences, she uses her life experience and skills as a massage therapist to help new and repeat moms on their pregnancy journey. She is also in the process of becoming a DONA certified Doula and Childbirth & Breastfeeding educator. “I was pregnant for half of the time I was in massage school and worked as a massage therapist through both pregnancies. I definitely carry a lot of experience from that into my prenatal sessions, as well as with postpartum moms.” Audrey found her way to Scents of Serenity in 2019 after researching spas in the Richmond area. “It gives me great pleasure to have found a work community that has the same beliefs and standards that I share with regards to organic products and clean living. It’s also an amazing place to learn and grow as a massage therapist.” When Audrey isn’t working, she loves spending time with her partner and her 2 children. She loves hiking, gardening, yoga and dance!

Kevin - Massage Therapist + Trainer

Specializes in: Sports Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Medical Massage, Cupping + Relaxation Massage

Kevin comes to us from Mynd (formerly Red Door Spa) where he worked for almost 10 years. Prior to pursuing his passion for massage, Kevin suffered a major injury and was told he would never be able to walk again. Through physical therapy and massage he was able to completely heal. Seeing the power of massage therapy and the huge part it played in his own healing is what ultimately lead him to pursue massage therapy. Kevin’s expertise lies in deep tissue and therapeutic massage, and he’s been know to give the most amazing relaxation massages. Kevin has an abundance of knowledge of the body and how massage can heal injuries both big and small. His ability to blend therapeutic touch with relaxation, will leave you feeling completely relaxed and rejuvenated. When Kevin is not working he is spending time with his wife and 3 children.

Carrie - Massage Therapist

Specializes in: Sports Massage, Pregnancy Massage, Pre/Postoperative Massage, Medical Massage, Deep Tissue Massage + Cupping

Carrie’s journey began at VCU where she studied psychology with an emphasis in stress management. Shortly after graduating, Carrie received her registered yoga training certificate and has been teaching yoga for almost 5 years, focusing on gentle restorative and yin yoga teachings. Over the years, Carrie has worked alongside chiropractors and physical therapists as a Doctors Assistant. During this time, she saw a variety of post-op patients who were suffering from various injuries due to car accidents, degenerative disorders and sports injuries. In the late summer of 2015, Carrie suffered several blunt force traumas and tore her labrum in the left hip which resulted in laparoscopic surgery where she experienced almost two years of post recovery pain and healing. Carrie continued working on pain management through daily physical movement and yoga practice. During this time she also received a variety of therapies including massage therapy, physical therapy, acupuncture and used herbal medicine. Carrie found that massage therapy was the only thing that helped provide her with lasting relief. It was her personal experience that inspired her towards pursuing a career in massage. Carrie knew that she needed to share with others the powerful healing benefits of massage therapy which ultimately led her to Scents of Serenity. “I chose Scents of Serenity not only for the overwhelming positive energy and beautiful ambience, but because I get to experience the best of both worlds as a therapist by being able to combine luxurious therapeutic with my clinical and medicinal approach so that my clients are able to leave feeling their best. We are encouraged to learn, to grow, to rest and care for ourselves, as much as we can. Not only so that we practice our knowledge within our daily lives, but so we can be the best therapists possible for our clients as well!” In her spare time, Carrie enjoys growing her own herbs and plants, studying their medicinal benefits, making teas, tinctures, and self-care products such as essential oil roll ons for mood or ailment. She also enjoys making soaps, salves, and balms from the herbs she grown. Carrie enjoys foraging for what she does not grow allowing her to spend time exploring outdoors in parks, around rivers, and in the mountains of Virginia.

Ginger - Massage Therapist

Specializes in: Relaxation Massage + Deep Tissue Massage

Ginger holds a Bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and a Master’s Degree in Communicative Sciences and Disorders with American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) certification. Ginger has worked in the healthcare field and in the educational system for the past 25 years with both children and adults. Although Ginger is completely satisfied with her career choice as a medical speech-language pathologist, she realized there was a way to further provide extraordinary relaxation, stress /anxiety relief, reduction of muscle tension, pain management and flexibility benefits with incorporating both professions. Ginger soon realized that massage therapy was not only excellent for relaxation but offered several health and wellness benefits including but not limited to; manual manipulation for Autoimmune and Neurological Disorders, Dysphagia (swallowing difficulties), Dysarthria (facial muscle weakness), Stroke and relaxation massage for Migraine Relief, TBI and PTSD. When Ginger is not working in long-term healthcare or with massage clients, she enjoys spending time with her husband, two children and two dogs. She uses prayer and exercise programs including yoga and kickboxing as an opportunity to relieve stress. Ginger enjoys ongoing educational opportunities and leisure reading

Liz - Massage Therapist

Specializes in: Relaxation Massage, Cupping, Medical Massage, Myofascial Release Therapy + Deep Tissue Massage

Liz is a licensed massage therapist with passion for combining relaxation with therapeutic outcomes. After her own surmounting stressful circumstances caused her health issues, Liz began to seek massage therapy for a calming, therapeutic change to life. Liz brings with her a very grounded, calming presence that allows space for the client to relax and step away from their daily “to-dos”. Liz is known for her deep tissue work. She says deep tissue doesn’t have to be “jabbing an elbow into the body” but rather with slow, deep manipulation and coaxing. The deeper layers of the muscles can be released while still being received in a relaxing state of body and mind. Liz brings a customizable experience and loves being able to tailor the massage to fit the client’s specific needs. Liz loves working at Scents of Serenity Organic Spa for the family mindset, the sense of working together for a greater good, and being able to do it in an environment that boasts tranquility and beauty. In her off-time Liz can be found anywhere outdoors with her two dogs (affectionately known as “the boys”), trying out a new recipe in the kitchen, or pouring friends a good glass of wine.

Patti - Massage Therapist

Specializes in: Deep Tissue Massage, Medical Massage, Trigger Point + Relaxation Massage

Bio coming soon!

Jack - Massage Therapist

Specializes in: Relaxation Massage

Bio coming soon!

Mickaela - Massage Therapist

Specializes in: Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Deep Tissue Massage + Relaxation Massage

Bio coming soon!

Jonas - Massage Therapist

Bio coming soon!

Lucy - Massage Therapist

Bio coming soon!

Molly - Massage Therapist + Esthetician

Specializes in: Relaxation Massage + Pregnancy Massage

Bio coming soon!

Kate - Massage Therapist

Bio coming soon!

Oliver - Massage Therapist

Bio coming soon!

Maria - Massage Therapist

Bio coming soon!

Emili - Lead Master Esthetician + Trainer

Specializes in: HydraFacial, Acneic Skin, Hormonal Skin, Mature Skin, Sculptural Facial Massage, Gua Sha Massage, Dermaplaning + Lymphatic Drainage

Emili is a native to the RVA area and received her Master Esthetics education here in Richmond, VA. She truly enjoys the positivity that she can extend to our guests through skincare, whether it’s to help them look their best or put them into a state of pure bliss so they can enjoy a relaxing treatment, or both! Emili believes that education never stops, especially in the ever changing world of skincare. She loves reading and educating herself and staying current within the skincare field. Emili loves interacting with clients daily. “I am passionate about each persons experience and I want every guest to be excited about their skin and skin care routine! I especially enjoy working with clients who are unsure of what treatment or products are best for their skin and guiding them in the best direction.” Emili enjoys forming a bond with each individual client and embarking on their skin care journey together to assure a results-driven experience.When it comes to her own self-care, Emili knows the importance of good skincare habits and makes time to care for her skin mornings and evenings! Outside of work, Emili spends as much time as possible with her two children and enjoys coming up with new activities for us to experience for the first time as a family.

Tracy - Master Esthetician + Trainer

Specializes in: HydraFacial, Face Lifting Massage, Gua Sha Facial Massage, Dermaplaning + Mature Skin

The moment you meet Tracy you know she is a true professional and loves sharing her gifts with others. As a Master Esthetician and with over 25 years of experience in the skincare industry, Tracy is a wealth of knowledge and loves to share all that she knows so that when you walk out of the door, you not only leave with the most radiant skin, but the professional education on how to maintain it. Tracy offers a wide variety of services including European facials, dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, and organic corrective peels. What our guests love the most about Tracy is how well she blends results-oriented skincare in a nurturing environment while incorporating massage and relaxation techniques that make them come back again and again. Tracy’s desire is that each guest leave having learned something new and having had an experience to remember. In Tracy’s hands you are nurtured and loved and your skin is completely transformed!

Elena - Master Esthetician

Specializes in: HydraFacial, Mature Skin, Dermaplaning + Facial Massage

Elena comes to Scents of Serenity from Mynd (formerly Red Door Spa) and has over 20 years of experience as a Master Esthetician. “I fell in love with Scents of Serenity as soon as I walked in the door. The unique decor and calming energy was so warm and welcoming, and they offer the highest quality organic products and services. I knew that I found my new work home.” Born and raised in Moscow, Elena was an oncology nurse before deciding to pursue her career in esthetics. Going back to school and changing careers, she found her passion through providing results oriented skincare to her clients. Elena has developed an expertise in microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, LED, customized anti-aging facials, acne facials, lash and brow waxing and tinting as well as Brazilian and bikini waxing. She works with all skincare concerns, focusing on anti-aging, sun damaged acne and scarring. Having struggled with acne growing up, Elena understands how difficult it is to have acne and to find the right skincare regimen. She enjoys working with those who have problematic skin challenges, customizing skincare products and services to help correct acne and acne scarring. Her goal is to help each person feel good about themselves, both inside and out. Elena’s calm demeanor and amazing facial massage techniques will leave you melting on the table. When she’s not working Elena enjoys spending time with her husband and 3 children, as well as hiking, working out, practicing yoga and dancing.

Lindsay - Master Esthetician

Specializes in: Mature Skin, Acneic Skin, Hormonal Skin

Lindsay, a native of Northern Virginia, followed in her mother’s footsteps and became a Master Esthetician, receiving her education from The Esthetic Institute. Like many Master Estheticians, Lindsay’s passion for skincare stemmed from her own struggles with hormonal and adult acne. She has always been interested in skincare routines and services that will help heal the skin naturally and loves mixing and blending Eminence products to create customized, effective skincare treatments for our guests. Her favorite part about providing skincare services is helping clients relax and feel amazing, all while achieving the best possible results for each person’s individual needs. Lindsay enjoys working in the beautiful environment that Scents of Serenity provides clients. “I stumbled upon the SOS website a few years ago while looking at local spas and was immediately impressed with the décor and interiors as well as the offerings. I thought to myself, ‘I would love to work for a spa that has such a great reputation!’” Lindsay moved to Richmond several years ago and lives with her husband, two adorable children and their cat. When she isn’t working, she enjoys spending free time with her family and taking her kids exploring outdoors.

Kacie - Master Esthetician

Specializes in: HydraFacial, Mature Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dermaplaning, Mature Skin

As far back as Kacie can remember, she has been in love with makeup and skincare. As a little girl she was always playing with her Mom’s skincare products, “I remember for Christmas when I was just 5 years old, I was given a play makeup kit and I was instantly in love!” And so it began, her journey down a road that would lead to her becoming a master esthetician. As the years went on, her mom bought home skincare magazines and books from the library and Kacie began educating herself on skin conditions, tips, trends, anything that had to do with skincare. “I remember in middle school my classmates looked to me for advice because they saw how well I took care of my skin. Before I knew it, I was writing ‘prescriptions’ and telling them what products they needed to get and the solution to their skin challenges!” Kacie is extremely passionate about helping people love the skin they’re in and enhancing each clients inner beauty through organic skincare services using her knowledge and expertise in the industry to create the most customized, results-oriented skincare solution for each of our guests.

Elisse - Master Esthetician

Specializes in: HydraFacial, Mature Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dermaplaning, Mature Skin Elisse joined Scents of Serenity in 2017 however she began her journey in the salon and spa industry in 2012. Having been inspired by the amazing team of women at Scents of Serenity, Elisse decided to pursue her education in esthetics is now a Master Esthetician. “I’m grateful to have aligned myself with such an amazing group of talented women at Scents of Serenity that inspire me daily to do what I love doing!” She received her medical-based education through the Institute of Advanced Medical Esthetics and consistently dedicates herself to learning and growing to stay educated as a skincare professional. Elisse specializes in preventative care and acne-related skin conditions but her favorite part of any facial is the facial massage! In addition to providing results-oriented skincare services, Elisse also specialized in the Jane Iredale make-up line and offers make-up consultations to meet your needs. Whether you’re just looking to relax and refresh or you’ve been struggling with skin issues for years, Elisse’s knowledge and passion for skincare will leave you feeling your absolute best!

Sarah - Master Esthetician

Specializes in: HydraFacial, Acneic Skin, Hormonal Skin, Mature Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dermaplaning, Mature Skin
Bio coming soon!

Laura - Master Esthetician

Laura’s experience and background stems in spa customer service. Having worked in the spa and retail industry for many years, as well as a guest service coordinator at Scents of Serenity, Laura decided to go to pursue her education and become a Master Esthetician. Laura’s extensive knowledge of the Eminence Organic Skincare line makes her facials truly customized. Whether you are receiving a luxurious spa treatment, an advanced skincare service or need a product recommendation, Laura enjoys being a part of the transformation of our guests and it gives her great joy to see the effects of our organic skincare treatments on all who visit the spa. Laura’s love for all things beauty and skincare is seen in each service she provides. Her passions include sharing her knowledge with all and she is always furthering her education so that she can provide the absolute best for each guest.

Jana - Master Esthetician

Specializes in: Sensitive Skin and Mature Skin Before attending aesthetics school, Jana found herself constantly reading about advanced skincare treatments, even attending skincare conferences. She became increasingly intrigued by all things skincare related. Jana decided to become a Master Esthetician and she graduated from the American Spirit Institute in Williamsburg, Virginia as a Master Esthetician in 2007. Since then skincare has became one of her greatest passions. Jana thrives on continuing education and providing a “tailored” experience for every guest, never forgetting that TLC is her most important gift. She enjoys working with and understanding the delicate needs of young and mature adults. Working side by side with a plastic surgeon for many years, Jana is an expert at microdermabrasions and hair removal. She loves to work closely with our guests, educating them on how to properly nourish and feed their skin organically, as well as how to reverse the signs of aging and environmental wear. With experience in a top resort on the Chesapeake Bay and assisting with the opening of a spa in a world renowned hotel, she has worked with clients of all ages. “Your face is a portrait of your personality; it’s the first thing people notice about you. There are so many benefits of taking care of your skin on a regular basis!” Jana looks forward to meeting you and building a long lasting relationship as your esthetician.

Sylvia - Master Esthetician

Bio coming soon!

Samantha - Guest Service Coordinator + Esthetician

Samantha joined the Scents of Serenity front desk team in 2019 and has recently received her Esthetician license from Lotus School of Integrated Professions. She is very eager to help make our guests feel as warm and welcomed as she did when she walked into the spa for the first time. “I felt right at home when I walked into Scents of Serenity for the very first time. I knew this was right place for me.” When Samantha is not at work, she enjoys online shopping and cuddling with her three pugs. She also loves going to wineries and breweries with her friends and family.

Lauren - Guest Service Coordinator

Lauren is passionate about holistic healthcare. In 2008, she completed her 200-hour yoga teaching certification in Boston, Massachusetts. She specializes in Hatha Yoga and is passionate about assisting students on their journey to self-love and discovery. In 2009, she and her husband took a summer long cross-country road trip. On that journey, she promised herself to live a happy life, full of intention. “Life is meant to be enjoyed, and when we turn our passions into our careers, we are the happiest.” Wanting to continue her holistic healing studies, she went on to complete a 4-year certificate program for clinical herbalism. There, she found that nature provides us with everything we need to live a life full of vitality. Seeking a career that aligned with her passions is what brought her to Scents of Serenity Organic Spa. As she learns more about Eminence Organics, she is realizing how herbalism plays a role in not just internal health, but external health as well. “Scents of Serenity is truly the best job I have ever had in my life. I align so closely with what is being offered to our clients and I could not be happier!”

Mari - Guest Service Coordinator

Mari brings a diverse background in banking, IT, academia, non-profit management, and graphic design to the spa. She loves the change of pace and personalized customer focus of Scents of Serenity, which first brought her through the door as a very satisfied customer! Now her goal is to provide that same warm, welcoming feeling as part of guest services. In her off time, Mari enjoys rural life with her menagerie – three rescue pups, a cat, chickens and fish. She is also actively involved in international social justice issues and loves to travel, especially visits back to her homeland in Ireland.