Need a little pick-me up after pounding the cobblestones in Saint Germain? Head to Free Persephone, an elegant spa-cum-tearoom which debuted in September 2015 in Paris. It’s a unique concept launched by American expat Lauren Creecy after working in the fragrance industry for 17 years.
Picture a chic country cottage with whitewashed antiques, abundant flower arrangements, colorful wallpaper, armchairs covered in floral prints, and a real apple tree as décor. It’s a breath of fresh springtime air in the heart of urban Paris. And that was exactly the idea. Creecy wanted to create a welcoming, rejuvenating space to give guests a dose of springtime all throughout the year. Hence the name, referring to the Persephone of Greek mythology. Creecy laughs when explaining that she gave an 80-page design brief to the architects and interior designers for the fulfillment of her long-time dream.
Creecy’s custom fragrances add to the ambiance. She teamed up with master perfumers in Grasse, the French capital of perfume, to create four exclusive fragrances for Free Persephone. These prettily packaged perfumes are available in the spa’s boutique, along with Kobo and Lucia scented candles, silk scarves, Shigeta cosmetics, and cushions by designer Barbara Agnes.
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There’s also a spa treatment room for facials and well-being massage (including deep tissue). Spa manager Diane, who previously worked with Guerlain and Deep Nature, has created a stellar spa menu including children’s treatments. They range in price from 24 euros (Essential Spa Manicure) to 96 euros (massages; “Mediterranean Garden” anti-oxidant facial).
Worked up an appetite? Free Persephone is a lovely gathering place for tea, fresh baked cakes, and conversation, not just pre- or post-pedicure. It’s an advantageous location: just around the corner from Le Bon Marché, the legendary department store, and Hotel Lutetia, the historic Art Deco landmark expected to reopen next year after a full renovation.
Free Persephone, Fragrance Day Spa: 66 Boulevard Raspail, 75006 Paris. Tel: +33 (0)1 42 22 13 04. It’s possible to book online.