Twist StudioSpa in Paso Robles is a world-class salon with a well-educated staff offering a full list of day spa services.

Offering world-class salon and day spa services

Twist StudioSpa is both a dream realized and a constant work in progress for owner Lorie Twisselman. An admitted perfectionist, her ambitious nature is the driving force behind Twist’s elegant décor, well-educated staff and world-class salon and day spa services.

“I wanted to raise the bar and bring a different type of salon experience to Paso Robles,” Twisselman said. “Hair, makeup and fashion – they’re constantly changing. I wanted our salon to reflect that not only in the services we offer but also in our staff’s knowledge.”

To help her find and cultivate the salon’s exceptional talent, Twisselman enlisted the skills of Jericho Morra, Twist StudioSpa’s Education Director. Together, they developed a curriculum and established “Twist Academy,” an intern program for licensed cosmetologists who are looking for continuing education in cutting, coloring and styling hair.

“When a cosmetologist gets out of school, they’ve learned the basics of cut and style,” explained Twisselman. “We offer to take their skills to the next level and provide them with a “Master’s Degree” in additional cuts, color patterns, blow dry’s, fabulous finishing work, up-dos and up-styles.”

The training is not limited to hair; students also learn about good business practices, as well as appearance and developing a solid work ethic.

World-class stylists

Morra, a stylist with over 28 years in the business, got his start in the famous Beverly Hills salon, Cassandra 2000. His work with celebrities and fashion shows ultimately landed him an association with Sebastian International, where he rose through the ranks becoming manager of the national team. “I was in charge of major trainings in Chicago, New York and Toronto,” said Morra, “training artists to go out into the field and represent the company.”

While the goal is to elevate their students’ skills to a world-class level, Twisselman and Morra are not trying to compete. “My hope is that they venture out and get the experience of working with other salons,” Twisselman said. “I would love for them to experience Los Angeles or Carmel or San Francisco, because then they bring that energy back here to Paso Robles. Their excitement keeps us all on our toes!”

Full range of services

The team of professionals at Twist StudioSpa is committed to developing lasting relationships with their clients. They offer a full list of services, including complimentary consultations and finishing touches that are designed to leave clients feeling fresh, energized and pampered.  All hair cut, color and style sessions begin with a thorough consultation, a mini stress-relieving scalp treatment and a cleansing massage.

Skin care includes a variety of facials, microdermabrasion and peels, as well as injectable and filler treatments with Laleh Shaban M.D., who visits every six weeks from her practice in Morro Bay. The salon and spa also carries the DNA Health Institute, all organic line of products and treatments developed by skin care expert, Dr. Aguilar.

Additional services include massage, spray tan, nails, waxing and eyelash extensions. Twist also offers an extensive makeup bar where clients can receive a quick touch-up, full makeover, or the perfect look for their special event.

Events and more

The salon and spa hosts events throughout the year that include product launches, holiday gatherings and a month-long anniversary celebration in January that concludes with an ‘Annual Collection Runway Show,’ featuring up-coming trends in hair, make-up and clothing. “We like the shows to be all inclusive – it can’t just be ‘the haircut collection’,” Morra explained. “What does the haircut go with? What are the make-up looks and colors that complement the hair color and style?”

The experts at Twist are also available for private occasions such as bachelorette and spa parties and teen make-up lessons.

A separate entrance at the back of the salon and spa leads to a tasting room where Nobelle Winery’s unique boutique wines are poured. Twisselman plans to expand this area into a lounge with comfortable couches and chairs that pull up to a blow-dry bar. She expects the renovation to be complete by the holidays.

Twist StudioSpa is located in the heart of downtown Paso Robles at 1421 Spring Street. Visit twistway.com or call (805)239-3222 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

— Cynthia Shaheen