This Beauty Expert Gives Us the 411
Written By: Kelly Emmer
Photographed By: Jane Chouteau Omni Rancho Las Palmas Spa
Expert: Monica Donato
Credentials: Spa Director, Omni Rancho Las Palmas
Q: Are you a born and raised local? If not, what made you want to go into business in this specific area?
Monica Donato: I am proud to have been raised in the Palm Springs area. The desert is such a tranquil and healing environment, which created a perfect foundation for my passion in wellness.
Q: Has this always been your career of choice? If so, what is your main passion that has piqued your interest since the beginning?
MD: I was fortunate enough to ‘fall into’ the wellness industry early in my career. Natural healing practices have always been an influence in my life. I was always inspired and amazed at the passion and energy that therapists and estheticians provided to their guests, in addition to the natural healing that can be received through massage therapy and relaxation.
Q: It has been said to be challenging to have a profitable business during the summer months here, and as you know many businesses close. What has been your philosophy of success for those harder times?
MD: We are proud to be in a beautiful resort environment that stays busy year round! Our marketing does tend to change based on the type of guests visiting our resort (business guests versus leisure) as well as using creative spa specials to entice guests to try a spa experience while they are here. We love to focus on our local guests and spa members and offer exclusive pricing during the slower months.
Q: What motivates you to come to work every morning? Are there a variety of inspirations?
MD: Working in a spa environment and coming to work with some of the most talented and passionate team members is what motivates me to be at work. I have sincere appreciation for all the benefits we provide our guests daily and the sense of relaxation that our spa is able to provide.
Q: If you had to sum up what beauty and/or style meant to you personally, what would you say?
MD: Beauty and style is all about individual expression and self-acceptance. We work very hard to help bring this out in our guests who enjoy salon services. We take the time to personalize the experience and help create and accentuate everyone’s natural inner beauty.
Q: Finish this sentence. You aren’t a true Greater Palm Springs local until you…
MD: Indulge in the surrounding natural beauty and dedicate time to the most important person—yourself.
Omni Rancho Las Palmas
41000 Bob Hope Drive
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
760.568.2727
Get to Know Monica Donato, Spa Director of Omni Rancho Las Palmas
