Known for: Her visionary look at the world of spa traditions and healing, her signature long tresses, and a devotion to an uncompromising, authentic way of living.
Mary Bemis lives one of those lives that inspires envy. As a leader in the spa world, she travels the globe to experience and evaluate beauty treatments and mind-expanding rituals. Through it all she remains down-to-earth, with a focus on how these treatments evolved, and how they can help heal in todays world.
where did you grow up?
Born on West 4th Street in Greenwich Village, I grew up between New York City’s West Village and Burlington, Vermont. My mother, born and bred in Chelsea, summered in Vermont as a child. My father, who hailed from Springfield, Massachusetts spent many winters skiing in Vermont.
are you a social person?
That’s hard to say. I’m very community-minded, and I do love a well-thought-out event with a great group of people—but at the same time, I need my alone time—big time. I prefer one-on-ones with a close friend, an incredible bottle of a big-bold-red, savory nibbles, and the perfect view.
describe your sense of style
No prints. No pink. No ruffles. No frou-frou. No-nonsense! I believe in pencil skirts, sling-backs, and the perfect travel suit.
tell me your favorite thing about New York City
There’s the possibility of a new adventure around every corner.
what do you do to unwind?
Bathe, sauna, dance, and drink. Not necessarily in that order.
your cocktail of choice
Pink Champagne.
name the goal you would like to accomplish over the next year
There’s one far-away spa culture I’ve wanted to visit for a very long time, and I’m looking forward to making that happen.
For an inside look at the spa world through the eyes of someone real, check out Mary Bemis’s website insidersguidetospas.com. You will gain a new appreciation for transcendant spa treatments and their effects.
