Jen Mattar is thankful that her tranquil labour of love survived every spa’s worst nightmare.
For two full years, from 2009 to 2011, noisy road work along Roncesvalles Avenue caused Sukha Health Spa’s revenue to plummet. “We're in the relaxation business,” Jen explains, “and it's not easy when there's a pile driver outside your window for months on end.”
As the construction dragged on, Jen was forced to close Sukha’s doors. But she soon realized that the eight years she had put into creating “a safe haven” wouldn’t be for nothing. “The amazing thing about this neighbourhood is that when people want you to stay, they're very determined,” Jen says. “Roncesvalles helped me reopen once the construction was finally over. A local printer helped me with reopening posters. The owner at Sweet Pea helped clean up my garden. A year and a half later we reopened, and here we are now. I’m really grateful.”
