Beauty & Spas in Portland

Designed entirely with kids in mind, Trimmings welcomes shaggy mop-tops into a sky-blue space bedecked with plush toys, colorful hair accessories, and products made especially for them. Kids can jump into the driver's seat of their own yellow taxi or red fire engine and let their imaginations run wild, barely noticing as one of the shop's kid-friendly stylists trims their bangs or carefully braids pigtails to perfection. Understanding that kids can be apprehensive during haircuts, the team takes a gentle approach as they shampoo tiny tresses and brush out tangles, all without disturbing the infinite supply of quarters hidden behind each child's ear. They also offer private, parties—built around themes such as pretty princess, enchanted fairy, rock-star diva, or aloha luau—that teach kids that the salon can be fun, pampering them with hairstyling and mini-manicures so that they can enjoy music and dancing in style.

Whether to alleviate lower-back pain, improve athletic performance, or unleash brigades of cheerleading endorphins, licensed massage therapist Catherine Dougherty’s kneading techniques can address a spectrum of physical and emotional ailments. Her 60- or 90-minute sessions are anchored by the relaxing Swedish style that typically begins with broad, gliding strokes to help relax tough exterior muscles and soothe skittish spirit animals. As the massage progresses, Catherine employs firmer techniques, such as rocking movements and deeper rubbing strokes, to target especially tense areas or deep-seated aches.

High in the historic State Theatre Building, Joshua Hughes sits in his massage studio, awaiting his next client. Brisk Atlantic winds glide through the suite's windows, as if the ocean itself were offering a gentle massage. "One of the things I like about my suite,” Hughes says. "It's high up. A great breeze always comes into the room. It’s… a lovely environment to relax."

A licensed massage therapist in the seventh year of his career, Joshua reflects on how he got here. "I wanted to help people," he explains, "and I was always good with my hands. Massage was right down that alley." He began working even before graduation, massaging as a freelancer at spas and salons. "I didn't feel quite fulfilled. I wanted to start my own practice.”

Joshua's approach to massage is holistic as he employs reflexology, deep-tissue work, and even hot riverbed stones to tailor treatments to the individual needs of his clients. Focusing on the individual is part of what is most satisfying to Joshua about his work. "I've had clients tell me that they're just so appreciative and grateful for my attention to detail––that I cater to them as people. The money's a bonus, but just having someone tell me they feel better is the most rewarding."