Michelle McGuire started her business in 2006 at the former Crowne Plaza but over the last 18 years had developed a larger clientele and outgrew the space. She wanted to own real estate and relocate the spa to expand the business—Michelle's old location only had four treatment rooms. When hunting for a bigger location, on-site parking was a must as well as a location that was convenient to her current customers. When searching for the right property, she quickly realized that most locations were going to need extensive renovations. The building she found was built in the early twentieth century and needed all new plumbing, electrical, healing and cooling, lighting and insulation. The bonus: it was located right across from her other business, Bob's Country Kitchen, in Lanesborough.

After 18 months of renovations, Michelle began decorating and installing new equipment she financed with Pittsfield Co-op. Her new property has seven treatment rooms along with a large, open area for manicures, pedicures and make-up applications. Facial TreatmentElle Day Spa now offers massages (including couple massages), facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing eyelash services, and several other treatments to "rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit." Additionally, Michelle left several spaces within the property unfinished, so it offers more opportunity for growth in the future or if the need presents itself.

The move from downtown Pittsfield was nerve-wracking at first, McGuire said, because she was not sure her clientele would follow her. Yet the larger location has allowed for the spa to expand its services and staff, and solved the lack of parking at the old site. She remarked, "I'm seeing clients that I haven't seen in a few years because of the parking issues." Plus, she happily noted that her business volume has grown.

When reflecting about her journey, she said that it was approximately a five-year process beginning with searching for the right commercial property. She said that she was nervous at points during the process, but was pleased to have Pittsfield Co-op by her side throughout it. "I couldn't have done it without their help. When the project first started, I had a set budget, and of course we all know when you do renovations that that changes really quickly. So, I had to go back to Pittsfield Co-op and ask for more funding, which helped me finish the project."

Today, Michelle McGuire could not be happier.

"Pittsfield Cooperative Bank helped me find, finance, and renovate my property. Now I have a beautiful new building featuring more space and treamtents rooms with plenty of parking for my clients and staff. And, I am right across the street from my other business."