Summer Chic Has a New Home: Lanphier Day Spa's Grand Opening

The fragrances of rose, geranium, jasmine and orange blossom awaken my weary senses.  I could be strolling through a French summer garden, but in reality, I’m standing on the white-marbled floor of Lanphier’s new Decléor Flagship Spa, enjoying the aroma wafting from the open jars of Decléor's wondrous skincare products.  All I can hear is the ooohs and aaahs from my girlfriends as they sample every essential oil based serum, treatment and balm, with its promise of relaxation and rejuvenation.   

On the evening of July 25, I had the pleasure of attending Lanphier’s opening of its new location at 20 West Ave. in Darien.  As Decléor's first Flagship Spa in the U.S., Lanphier will now use only Decléor products for its skincare treatments. Lanphier’s owner, Eileen Lanphier Rizvi, welcomed the founder of Decléor Paris, Madame Solange Dessimoulie, with a lavish reception where guests were treated to champagne, hors d’oeuvres and an inspirational speech from Madame herself.

In person, Solange Dessimoulie is petite, sprightly, and (I was surprised to discover) “somewhere near” seventy years of age. Her milky smooth, glowing complexion is perhaps Decléors best advertisement. She takes an easy interest in people and, when she speaks about her passion for superior skincare, her eyes shine with a youthful exuberance.

“I created Decléor in 1974 with a wonderful name. Decléor (De Cle en Or) represents “the golden key” for opening the natural beauty of men and women. The secret of Decléor is two-fold: first, with our Aromessence™, we want to give all women and men radiance and hydration for their skin.  Whatever age you are, your skin needs to be radiant, luminescent and bright.  It is the most important thing.  Secondly, it is so important to keep your energy and vitality as you age.  With Decléor treatments, there is a specific protocol that involves massage, acupressure, stretching and reflexology.  When you enter into your bathroom in the morning, you need to feel like a princess … or a king.”

Madame Dessimoulie started Decléor Paris in 1974 out of her home and, with a strong vision and passion, has built Decléor into the world’s largest cosmetic aromatherapy brand, distributed in 76 countries worldwide.

Fatima Kantemirova, a Lanphier esthetician, loves working with Decléor products.  “All of Decléor's products are 100% pure and free of preservatives.  They smell natural and clean and they leave you feeling clean and refreshed.”

Morgan Lee, also an esthetician, has been working with Decléor products for 7 years.  "I fell in love with the products after my first training with Shannon Gallogly, the National Educator/Trainer.  It did not take me long to become a big fan of their products. My favorite product is Neroli Essential Night Balm.  I love its lush and melt-in texture.  My night would not be complete without this balm. Upon waking up, my skin is smooth and my complexion is radiant.   I called it my 'melted vitamins in a jar'!"

As some of you may know, Decléor's U.S.A. headquarters are located right here in Darien on Tokeneke Road, which makes Lanphier the perfect choice for its first Flagship Spa.   was attended by local politicians, including Senator Bob Duff, Senator Carlo Leone, First Selectwoman Jayme Stevenson and Darien Selectman & Darien Chamber board member John Lundeen.

When asked about the secret to Lanphier’s success over the years, Ms. Lanphier Rizvi responded, “the key to Lanphier’s success is its dedicated team of experts who provide a nurturing, professional and creative environment for our clients and community.  Lanphier is a huge supporter of local business and community events and believes in striving to exceed expectations at every opportunity.”

Lanphier’s General Manager, Patricia Mavrides, agreed and added, “Being the Flagship is quite an honor and we are so happy to share our news with everyone.”

In the spirit of celebration, Ms. Mavrides has extended an exclusive offer for my blog readers!  From now until September 15, 2012, kristenharnisch.com and local Patch.com readers will enjoy 20 percent off your choice of a Decléor Aroma-Essential Facial (90 mins.) or a Decléor Madagascar Escape or Red Island Ritual body treatment and an extra 10 percent off your first Decléor purchase of home skin care at the Darien location.  Just tell them, “Kristen Harnisch sent me!”

As a longtime (over 7 years!) client and fan of Lanphier, I hope you're able to take advantage of this special offer.  Lanphier will be hosting an Open House for the public this Sunday, July 29th from 11-3 pm. Visit Lanphier’s new website, www.lanphierdayspa.com to view the new menu of  Decléor services or find them on Facebook and .

Editor's note: Kristen Harnisch and other guests at Lanphier's opening received a small goodie bag with Decléor products.