Shoppers Can Pamper Themselves at Hand and Stone in West Long Branch

By Christopher Sheldon

Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa in West Long Branch is giving shoppers a chance to unwind and relax after a long day.

The spa, located at 310 Highway 36 in the West Long Branch Consumer Centre, is the newest of the franchise's over 100 locations throughout the country after opening on June 24.

Owners Jim and Cheryl Guarnera, of Toms River, say their business is different than others because it offers more services.

"Some nail salons also offer massages, but they are not able to offer the same massage services and depth of experiences we do," Jim said. "Compared to other franchises, we are unique because offer massages, facials and waxing. Others only do one or two of these services."

Jim said Hand and Stone also is a less expensive option than day spas.

Hand and Stone has nine rooms; three for skin care, 5 for massages and another for couples massages.

"We have therapists who can do every type of massage with the exception of reiki," Jim said. "We can do oncology, prenatal, deep tissue and sport. We can run the gamut on the types of massages we provide for folks."

Jim said the hot stone massage is Hand and Stone's signature massage.

He said Hand and Stone also offers month-to-month membership and that people are not required to sign an annual agreement.

Jim said he and his wife chose West Long Branch for their spa because it was "relatively close to home" and saw that there was a need in the area.

"We recognized that there were not massage places around here and saw a need in an area with the demographics we look for," Jim said.

Jim said he is already enjoying his time at Hand and Stone and is looking forward to working with other local businesses and celebrating the store's grand opening on July 13.