Nikolett Antal, the founder of Rosedale Massage, reveals the inspiration behind her wellness studio and how her passion for personalised, high-quality massage therapy drives everything she does.
Q: What motivated you to start your own massage studio?
Before I even applied for my first job as a massage therapist, I knew I wanted to create my own studio. I envisioned a peaceful sanctuary where people could escape the pressures of daily life, slow down, and experience the healing power of touch. I wanted to give my clients more than just a treatment—I wanted each session to leave a lasting impact on their well-being.
To bring that vision to life, I needed experience from all angles. I worked as a spa therapist, tried numerous treatments, and met incredible professionals along the way. All these experiences confirmed my belief that Rosedale Massage could offer something truly special.
Q: What is the mission of Rosedale Massage, and how do you ensure your team stays aligned with it?
Our mission is to create a space where clients can relax, rejuvenate, and feel cared for. It’s not just about a single massage session; it’s about helping people find balance in their lives, whether they’re seeking relief from pain, stress, or just need a moment of peace.
Our team is fully aligned with this vision. Every new member goes through an extensive onboarding process to ensure they understand our values and the importance of delivering high-quality care. Even Gyuri, my husband and co-founder, had to go through this process to uphold our standards and maintain our 5-star reputation.
Q: How has your experience at Nirvana Spa influenced the way you run Rosedale Massage?
Working at Nirvana Spa was a fantastic learning experience that shaped how I run Rosedale Massage today. I saw firsthand the challenges of operating in a high-demand environment, especially the quick turnaround times between clients. A 10-minute gap between appointments is not enough for either the therapist or the client to fully relax.
At Rosedale, I wanted to do things differently. Our treatment times only include the actual massage—consultations and preparation are separate. This allows each client to feel fully cared for, without the pressure of the next appointment looming over them.
Q: Why did you choose Guildford as the location for Rosedale Massage?
Guildford felt like the perfect fit after researching several locations in Surrey, Berkshire, and Oxfordshire. It has a vibrant community and a growing interest in wellness. The people here are discerning; they appreciate high-quality, personalized services, and that’s exactly what Rosedale Massage offers. Being surrounded by both residential areas and business hubs also gives us great access to our target clientele.
Q: Can you describe your target customers and how you tailor your services to meet their needs?
Our primary focus is women between the ages of 35 and 50. These women often juggle many responsibilities, from managing careers to caring for families, which can lead to stress and burnout. They need a place to recharge and take care of themselves. That’s where we come in.
At Rosedale, we offer a blend of holistic and therapeutic treatments designed to help our clients relax, manage pain, and improve their overall well-being. We’ve recently added specialized services like pregnancy massages to support expecting mothers as well.
Q: Can you share a memorable experience with a customer that left a lasting impression on you?
I once had a client who came in completely open to what I had to offer. She was struggling to relax at night, so we discussed some breathing exercises she could try. After her session, she told me, “I have a regular massage therapist, but honestly, I like yours better! It was so much more than just a massage. The breathing exercises really helped me feel present and centered.”
Her feedback energized me, and it was such a rewarding moment to know that I made a real difference in her well-being. She booked her next session right away, which was incredibly affirming.
Q: What are your plans for the future of Rosedale Massage?
We’re always looking to evolve and expand. In the next six months, we plan to introduce facial treatments tailored to all skin types, promoting the health of the skin along with the body. We’re also working towards securing our own exclusive studio space, which will give us the flexibility to offer new services like dual treatments—a growing trend in spa environments.
Q: How do you see the current state of the massage industry, and what trends do you think will shape its future?
The massage industry is growing rapidly, driven by an increased focus on mental health and well-being. Clients are looking for longer treatments—75 to 120 minutes is now the preferred duration over shorter sessions. They also want more than just a massage; they seek an experience that enhances both physical and mental wellness.
At Rosedale, we’re staying ahead of these trends by offering a more holistic approach that addresses the entire body and mind. Our clients leave feeling not just relaxed but rejuvenated in every sense.