Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa opens in Hudson, Natick - MetroWest Daily News

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The national chain has more than 400 locations, including five in Massachusetts.

HUDSON – Looking to relax and unwind from a long day or a stressful holiday season? Then, Hudson and Natick’s Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa is the place for you.

The national chain, which launched in 2004 and has more than 400 locations in 31 states, opened its third and fourth stores in Massachusetts over the past few weeks – one at the Highland Commons shopping center and the other at Rtes. 9/27 Shopping Plaza in Natick.

“This seems to be a destination,” franchisee David Goldman said of Hudson and the popular Highland Commons shopping center. "...We're in every major market around the country."

Goldman took an untraditional path to the world of massage. He held various information technology management roles for two decades before deciding he wanted a change. Goldman and his father Barry partnered and began searching out business opportunities. David met with several franchise brokers to find the best fit.

“This was not on my radar initially,” he said with a laugh.

However, Goldman’s wife, who is a believer in massage therapy, encouraged him to become a Hand and Stone Massage franchisee. He chose Hand and Stone because of the company's track record and growth. Goldman plans to open two more locations, likely in MetroWest, in the near future.

“It certainly is more of a high end experience for an affordable price,” he said.

Hand and Stone offers Swedish, hot stone, Himalayan sports, deep tissue, oncology and prenatal massages. They also offer decompression therapy and facials for men, women and teenagers. The facility features 10 rooms, three for facials and seven for massages, including one specifically for couples massages.

The Hudson location employs five massage therapists and two estheticians.

A steady stream of customers has flocked to the Hudson location since its opening Nov. 25.

“We’ve had really good activity with gift cards and appointments steadily increasing week by week,” said Goldman.

The relaxed faces of customers leaving the spa after a massage fills Goldman with joy.

“I love the idea of providing a service that provides relaxation, rejuvenation,” he said. “It’s nice. It gives you a good feeling.”

For more information on services offered or to sign up for a monthly membership visit www.handandstone.com.

Jeff Malachowski can be reached at 508-490-7466 or jmalachowski@wickedlocal.com. Follow him on Twitter @JmalachowskiMW.