Estheticians
LESLIE M. PALMIERI
OWNER / ESTHETICIAN
Leslie Palmieri joined Sacred Willow Spa in January 2013 after graduating Summa Cum Laude in December 2012 from an intense esthetician program study at MillerMotte College-Wilmington. Her studies included bacteriology, sanitation, disinfections, skin structure, diseases and disorders, facials, aromatherapy, body treatments, microbrasions, waxing, and more. She thoroughly enjoys all aspects of the services she offers to her clients: analysis, diagnosis, hands on experience and product recommendation. Leslie’s knowledge and desire to provide clientele with the best skin care consultations and services is enhanced through the International Dermal Institute hands-on training courses and continuing education opportunities. She is also taking Reiki and Reflexology courses to broaden her skills to benefit her clients who are interested in these service enhancements.
RITA BERARDO
ESTHETICIAN
Rita and her family came to Calabash from the Northeast region of the country 10 years ago and are happy to call Brunswick County “home”. When Rita first arrived in Calabash, she began a search to find a spa that provided massage and skin therapy services, but to her dismay, she found she had to travel to Myrtle Beach or Wilmington to indulge in those services. This prompted her to begin a study in esthetics in 2008 and found a school that incorporated the Dermalogica product line, having used their products herself for over 10 years. Now, a decade later, Rita calls Sacred Willow Spa her tome to provide esthetic services and has continued to use Dermalogica products for over 20 years because she truly believes in the results they deliver while being cost effective at the same time. Rita loves to educate clients about their skin health and how they can incorporate Dermalogica products into their at home skin care regimen of optimal results.
GINA GRINNAN
ESTHETICIAN
Gina has been a licensed aesthetician for 18 years and has truly loved every aspect of her profession. Throughout her career, she has had the opportunity to work primarily in the medical aesthetics field, gaining extensive experience while helping clients feel confident and cared for.
After many rewarding years in the medical setting, Gina decided it was time for a change—a slower pace, a more peaceful environment, and the opportunity to focus on the relaxing and restorative side of skincare. She is excited to bring her experience and passion into the spa setting, where she can connect with clients on a more personal level and create an experience that is both nurturing and enjoyable.
Originally from Denver, Colorado, Gina recently moved to a more relaxed environment where she can embrace a slower pace of life and enjoy the things that mean the most to her.
Outside of her career, Gina loves spending time with her children and grandchildren, gardening, crafting, baking homemade bread, and creating handmade soaps and lotions. Her creativity and love of natural, handcrafted products have become a special part of her life.
KITTY CANNEY
ESTHETICIAN
Hi! I’m a licensed massage therapist and esthetician with a passion for helping people feel relaxed, refreshed, and confident in their own skin.
I graduated from Spa Tech Institute in Ipswich, Massachusetts, where I first completed my massage therapy training and then continued my education in esthetics, graduating in 2010. I’ve always loved the spa and wellness industry and the opportunity to make someone’s day a little better through relaxation, self-care, and personal connection.
I moved to South Carolina two years ago and have really enjoyed making it home. When I’m not working, I love being outdoors, spending time at the beach, and enjoying time with my family. I’m married and have two children, who keep life busy and fun!
One of my favorite things about living in the area is getting to enjoy all of the beautiful holiday traditions. I especially love Christmas lights, and seeing the incredible lights at Brookgreen Gardens is something I look forward to every year.
I’m grateful to be part of the spa and wellness community and look forward to creating a relaxing, comfortable experience for every client who walks through the door.