A dream come true: Kona residents open spa in Kailua Village

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The Rev. Danny Akaka Jr. performs a blessing in February for Hawaii Sanctuary by Saima in Kailua-Kona. (@seth_cornell_photography/Special to West Hawaii Today)
Hawaii Sanctuary by Saima is now open, offering massages, facials, and face waxing and tinting in Kailua-Kona. (@seth_cornell_photography/Special to West Hawaii Today)
Hawaii Sanctuary by Saima is now open, offering massages, facials, and face waxing and tinting in Kailua-Kona. (@seth_cornell_photography/Special to West Hawaii Today)
Saima Ahmad brings over 20 years of experience in the spa and hospitality business. (@seth_cornell_photography/Special to West Hawaii Today)
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Hawaii Sanctuary by Saima is now open, offering massages, facials, and face waxing and tinting in Kailua-Kona.

Saima Ahmad brings over 20 years of experience in the spa and hospitality business, having fell in love with the industry at just 19 years old when she was working as a receptionist for a spa at the Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage.

“From there, I moved to Los Angeles and most fondly co-managed ‘Ole Henriksen’ Spa in West Hollywood after a quick promotion,” says Ahmad, who then earned her esthetician license at the Santa Monica College beauty branch.

“I love skincare and combining the understanding of ingredients with efficacy that can change the skin on top of modern technologies and not to overlook, ancient remedies,” shes says.

In 2015, Ahmad and her husband, Jan Egge, moved to Kona. Since, Ahmad has worked at top resorts, offering massages and facials. This year, the two took the plunge and opened Hawaii Sanctuary by Saima in Hanama Place.

“I’ve always dreamt of opening my own spa, where I can finally combine my different types of training and experience to create the ultimate environment to nurture my guests in the most luxurious way possible,” Ahmad said.

A blessing by the Rev. Danny Akaka Jr. on Feb. 26 marked the official opening of the business.

Hawaii Sanctuary by Saima offers a 15% kamaaina discount to residents.

For more information, visit www.bysaima.com or call (808) 333-5563.