Mechele Duke says she is so interested in people that she could have owned any kind of people business. She is also interested in seeing end results such as the happiness of someone with a new haircut or the relaxation of guests after experiencing Rain Salon & Spa services.
Sixteen years ago, Mechele realized that she wanted to build a business, “one that could be built for employees and the creation of outstanding guest experiences. A business that is also good for any potential future owners.” Mechele wanted employees to be able to make a good living and to provide health insurance and the kind of benefits that other businesses provide. “I want to provide for employees who are the primary breadwinners for their families,” shared Mechele. She also stated that she wants employees to be safe and secure financially and to have the kind of lifestyle they want to have. Mechele wants to differentiate the salon experience for employees and for guests.
The guest relations team greets everyone, inviting them to enjoy a warm hand towel, and tea, or infused water while waiting in the calm and relaxing check-in area.
Rain Salon & Spa is an Aveda Salon and Spa. There is an aroma upon entering to create an inviting feel rather than the scent of hair chemicals. The retail shopping area and the whole space is designed and managed to be welcoming for all guests.
Mechele wants guests to have a stress-free experience and to feel like they can come as they are, no need to get dressed up to be in the salon with no judgment from the team. Mechele wants good humans working with guests and good humans coming in as guests.
The salon is luxurious but not pretentious. Luxury is in the guest experience. Guests can opt for long visits (3 hours) or time-efficient (30 minute) services depending on their needs. The overall feel of the salon is modern, organic, and creates a Zen feel. There is a plant wall. The space is bright and clean. Each area of the salon and spa has its own feel.
The salon space is higher energy than the spa spaces. It has individual stations for stylists to work with guests. With each haircut, complimentary rituals such as neck, shoulder, and scalp massages with an aroma chosen by the guest, are available. Women and men receive the same experience. There are even hand massages while people are getting their hair colored.
Spa services are customized to the client’s needs. There is a steam shower in this area which is complimentary. Warm towels and an aroma of your choice are available with spa services.
Facials have their own menu of services too. The hydra-facial is a medical grade system with a wand that cleanses skin, provides a peel, and hydrates your skin. Clients select the options they want, medical grade or a relaxing facial, for their 45-minute experience.
In addition to great spaces for guest relaxation, Mechele makes sure to take care of her staff. “I believe my staff are my customers. The staff team takes care of our customers and guests. It is a balancing act to meet the business’s needs and the needs of the team. If it is unbalanced in some way, then guests won’t receive the best experiences. I work hard to listen to my staff and to meet their individual needs so that they can provide excellent services and experiences.”
Mechele has lived in Idaho her whole life – mostly in Southern Idaho and the Treasure Valley. “My roots are Idaho – there is not a better state to live in. I love the people and the beauty here! I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.”
After managing a Stinker Station for 10 years, she realized that owning a salon was her dream, despite a family member discouraging her. She went to night school to complete her beauty education and earn her Idaho Cosmetology License. She likes to spend time in nature: snowmobiling, hiking, or taking a walk; she loves the beach and spending time there, too. Recently empty-nested, she's looking forward to a couples-only (no kids) vacation – hopefully to Italy.
The hydra-facial is a medical grade system with a wand that cleanses skin, provides a peel, and hydrates your skin. Clients select the options they want for their 45-minute experience.