Nutley Couple Plan To Open Luxury Day Spa In New Jersey

NUTLEY, NJ — A middle school teacher and a retired police officer plan to take a leap into the private sector when they open a new luxury day spa in New Jersey.

After spending decades in public service, Nutley residents Cathy and Peter Scherrer are planning to make a dramatic shift. The couple recently signed an agreement to open a Spavia Day Spa in the state – with plans to open in 2026.

The new franchise will be the brand’s seventh location in New Jersey.

For now, the Scherrers are currently in the site selection phase. They’re looking in Nutley, but are open to surrounding areas, a spokesperson said.

When the new day spa finally finds a home, it will offer Spavia’s full menu of treatments, including customized facials, therapeutic massages, revitalizing body treatments and waxing. Guests will also be able to take part in “resort-inspired” amenities like exclusive access to the spa retreat, plush spa robes and sandals, warm aromatherapy neck pillows and their choice of exotic teas.

The foray into the private sector will be a big change for both entrepreneurs.

Cathy Scherrer, an educator for nearly 20 years, most recently served as a response to intervention (RTI) teacher, supporting students in grades 5 to 8. Meanwhile, Peter Scherrer spent nearly 30 years with the New Jersey State Police, retiring as a lieutenant before transitioning to his current role as an account manager with Allied Universal Security.

“Having personally experienced the benefits of massage and self-care, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for how important wellness is to overall quality of life,” said Cathy, who will step away from teaching to run the spa full-time.

“What drew us to Spavia was its focus on creating a truly personalized and calming experience,” she said. “It felt like the kind of place we always sought out for ourselves, and now we have the opportunity to create that experience for others.”

The couple got a big round of applause from Marty Langenderfer, CEO and co-founder of Spavia.

“Cathy and Peter have spent their careers serving and helping others, and their commitment, strong leadership experience and genuine passion for wellness makes them a perfect fit for our franchise family,” Langenderfer said.

“They’re the kind of owners who remind us why we started Spavia in the first place,” Langenderfer added.

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