In every small town across America, there’s at least one salon that raises the bar for everyone else. Glen Mills, PA (population 18,099) has Joseph Anthony Retreat Spa and Salon.
Just outside Philadelphia, nestled among lush gardens and scenic landscapes, is the unincorporated community of Glen Mills, PA. Built around the historical paper mills that began in the late 1800s, and have since closed, Glen Mills currently maintains a small-village charm while having the am
enities of a major city, including the one-of-a-kind sanctuary: Joseph Anthony Retreat Spa and Salon.
Established solely as a salon in 1978 by Joseph Anthony Gaglioti, the space is now a full-service beauty mecca that includes a luxurious European-style day spa and the recently added Hughes Center for Aesthetic Medicine. The entire business was a dream come true for Gaglioti and his son Joseph Anthony Gaglioti Jr. “I was excited to join the team in 1994, and together our vision grew into a stylish salon and spa,” Gaglioti Jr. says. Along with Dr. Susan M. Hughes and her team—who perform med-services ranging from facial enhancement injections to NeoGraft Hair Restoration—there are 33 stylists, 16 estheticians and 15 massage therapists on staff that tend to hair, nails, body and relaxation needs. Such pampering takes place in a 2,800-square-foot space, designed to accommodate all treatments and enhance the tranquil ambiance. The fieldstone and cream-colored trim found throughout the interior complements the building’s vernacular architecture and peaceful aesthetic. Key features include the large glass entrance tower and the uneven butterfly roof that angles toward the entryway. Salon services take place on the first floor, while the renovated second floor is the spa and includes decadent areas such as the 400-square-foot Brine Light Inhalation suite where guests can enjoy a fresh salt mist from a waterfall, energizing light therapy and calming music for a relaxi
ng escape.
While the atmosphere provides a sense of bliss, Gaglioti Jr. notes at the center of it all is exceptional customer service, ensuring clients leave feeling relaxed and looking good. Additionally, Joseph Anthony Retreat Spa and Salon hosts events throughout the year to keep in tune with the Glen Mills’ community. One such event is Style Wars, a fashion show fundraiser benefitting Adopt a Pig, a nonprofit that provides support to children and families dealing with pediatric cancer. It’s events like these that keep the business down to Earth, helping them provide luxe services with a laid-back attitude. “For years, clients have told me that the highlight of their week is getting their hair and nails done at our salon. People just feel comfortable here,” says Gaglioti Jr. ✂ —Jolene Turner
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