ABOUT
ABOUT THE SPA
ABOUT SEWICKLEY
ABOUT THE CURRENT PRESIDENT OWNER
AND FOUNDER
With most entrepreneur’s there is a story of inspiration, passion, and determination, all of which, when mixed in with a dream can pave the way to life changing motivation. That is the path that aligned so perfectly for Jonelle McMahan, President and Owner of the Sewickley Spa. McMahan began working with Dorothy Andreas, founder of the Sewickley Spa, as Spa Director in 2009. Jonelle’s story evolved into one that combined all of her personal attributes and determination in a way that would fulfill her dream of one day owning the Sewickley Spa.
As a student at Ambridge High School, Jonelle began working as a shampoo girl/receptionist at Right Angles by Kim, a flourishing hair salon in Ambridge. Owner Kim Villella, a brilliant entrepreneur quickly became Jonelle’s first professional mentor. Working at the salon was the beginning of Jonelle’s deep seated respect and admiration for the beauty industry as she watched first-hand as Villella grew her business to become one of the area’s premier beauty and wellness studios.
A 2004 graduate of Penn State University with a degree in Communications, Advertising and Public Relations, McMahan enjoyed a successful career in media advertising working for Radio Disney, ESPN Radio, KDKA Radio and WBVP/WMBA and found herself not only ready for a career change, but she was ready to go back to the beauty industry.
That change presented itself in meeting previous owner of the spa, Dorothy Andreas, who had established a remarkable business model. Her strategic approach to promoting and marketing The Sewickley Spa brand grew the business to become a celebrated destination earning national acclaim. McMahan’s past work experience in advertising, aligned well with the commitment to the marketing concepts that Andreas subscribed to and the working relationship was the perfect fit.
McMahan was a natural at engaging with the clients of the spa. It became quite clear to her that everyone comes to a day spa for different reasons. Some people see it as an escape from a hectic world, some come to search to find their sense of ‘self’, while others come to relax and feel pampered. It was the personal connection with clients that was so powerful for McMahan. This had become more than just a job. She became emersed in the positive effect the experience was having on clients and how playing even a small role in that gave her a fulfillment that she had not experienced in her previous career.
That is when McMahan’s entrepreneurial spirit became fueled. As Dorothy Andreas was planning to take her new business ventures to the next level and sell the spa, it was clear that she was meant to be the next owner.
With the dream in motion, nothing was going to stand in her way of someday owning the spa. Not even a pandemic. Undeterred by the challenges brought on by COVID 19, McMahan kept her head down and her dream alive by growing revenue in- spite of the lock down and then the social distancing that had devastating effects on so many other businesses. McMahan went on to purchase the spa in November of 2020.
Owning the spa has also helped Jonelle embrace her passion for community involvement as she embraces the charitable cause’s she holds dear. Losing her mother to breast cancer when McMahan was only 19 years old has drawn her to shine a spotlight on Breast Cancer Awareness and Hair Peace Charites, an organization that provides financial assistance to women and girls to purchase wigs due to the devastating effect of chemotherapy. McMahan is also a champion for Beverly’s Birthdays, a charity that provides birthday parties for children experiencing homelessness and families in need. She also works to advance the fight against animal cruelty and neglect by supporting Animal Friends and the Humane Society.
The Sewickley Spa continues to set the standards of day spas in our area and under the ownership of McMahan customers can expect the same level of service and professionalism that they are accustomed to. “We treasure the relationships we build with our customers and the new clients and friends we welcome will become equally as precious,” said McMahan. “We remain dedicated to providing an extraordinary experience and I feel privileged to be able to carry the tradition.”
While realizing her dream to own the Sewickley Spa was the beginning of Jonelle McMahan’s entrepreneurial story, the most significant part of the story continues to be written every day as she engages with clients to ensure that their personal journey to wellness is satisfied in a most extraordinary way. That will always remain the mission of the Sewickley Spa.
One word best describes Dorothy Andreas, “Committed”. A commitment to women embracing their inner confidence, and an entrepreneurial spirit are what led Dorothy, as she was putting herself through college in 1980, to abandon school and open her own salon business at the youthful age of 19. She sold her car to gather the down payment on the first of four salons, which would lead to a very exciting future.
Dorothy began competing in hairstyling competitions at the age of 16. She holds first place awards but more importantly she learned discipline needed to accomplish her goals. Dorothy built a successful business model with her first business. The business was lost in a fire in 1984. She quickly re-opened in a new location. She expanded with another location and new business model in 1986. Her success was founded on a reputation for quality service, artistic offerings, and a comfortable environment for clients.
In 1989, with a thriving business, she knew she needed to give something back to her profession. She started "The Possibilities for Success"© seminar, and took this to young people throughout the region, touting the benefits of the beauty industry to teenagers in unfortunate situations. Dorothy stated, "Young people don't often have skills or support to realize they are capable of amazing things. Through sharing my own story, I create the possibilities they may not know exist for themselves." Dorothy has been an advisory board member to beauty schools; guest teacher, lecturer and mentor for over thirty years. Her focus is ensuring that students are equipped for healthy futures in the beauty profession as well as the business world.
Dorothy’s commitment to giving back to her community was evidenced as she was nominated and elected in 1991 to preside over the Business Persons Association of Regent Square. She was the first woman to hold this position. During her terms, the area was transformed to a popular destination, developing a synergy amongst neighbors, merchants, and patrons. Regent Square still benefits from her positive implementations. Dorothy also served as the Vice- President of the Sewickley Chamber of Commerce in 2003-2004.
It was her diplomatic personality, professionalism and high energy attitude that landed her an invitation to join the Pittsburgh Chapter of The Art & Fashion Group International. In 1994, she was presented with the Master of the Craft Award from the group, in recognition for her artistry and professionalism. Dorothy Andreas quickly gained the confidence of her peers and was elected as the Chapter President. Within months, she implemented many new ideas that were being duplicated throughout the country. By mid-year, the Pittsburgh Chapter had increased membership and funds to be greater than any of the other 64 Chapters in the organization. The following year, she was elected as the first woman and youngest ever, to preside over "The A&FG. She quickly gained respect and cooperation from her peers and the Art & Fashion Group International had its most successful year to date.
Committed to superior service and products for her clients, as well as the members of the A&FG, Dorothy formed NEDCO, North East Distribution Company, which imported skin and hair products that were new to the United States. She also served as a director of education for the company, based in Parma, Italy.
Dorothy is extremely proud of starting the "Annual Cut-A-Thon", an event to raise money for children in homeless situations. Allegheny Intermediate Unit and The Light of Life Mission were the recipients of the funds. The program was replicated in various other chapters of the A&FG, raising in total over $100,000 for charities.
Managing a successful business, raising two young children, while overseeing the operations of the Art and Fashion Group, Dorothy noticed the growing attention of others asking how she managed it all. This led her to develop a unique and informative presentation called "Yes, There is Enough Time”©. The workshop, taught nationally to business owners and employees, shifts the idea of time management from something unattainable. Participants gain skills to move from overload to business control and personal joy.
Dorothy Andreas went on to begin organizing and hosting W.I.L.L. seminars, [Women in Leadership Leagu©]. A national organization of professional women which deal with personal and career advancements of its members. Aware of a rapidly changing world, W.I.L.L. embraced the philosophy of women being the most integral part of the management, business strategy and beauty pioneers in their profession. W.I.L.L. gained recognition for outstanding women with skills and knowledge, but lacking appropriate appreciation. Dorothy’s determination brought awareness to the women, behind the scenes, who have shaped the beauty industry.
In 1995, Dorothy Andreas, as the first American from the beauty industry, received the "Golden Scissors Award” from the Columbian Beauty Association. Her efforts to bring recognition to this group proves evident as through her work, Columbians are now graciously invited to perform in American Productions in the beauty industry.
Also in 1995, Dorothy Andreas co-produced and emceed "The World Masters" show in New York, hosting beauty professionals from 64 countries.
In 1996, Dorothy Andreas co-produced "L'Evente Globale", the industry's first educational show to be held in Europe by an American concern. The event, attended by over 1,500 beauty professionals from four continents was held in the resort town of Rimini, Italy. Later that year, she received the “President's Award” from the A&FG International for outstanding commitment to her profession.
On March 10, 1996, at a gala dinner in New York City, Dorothy was presented with the "Founders Award". Three hundred beauty leaders from 35 countries gave her a standing ovation for her many contributions to the beauty industry.
In 1998 Dorothy opened The Sewickley Spa, a regional destination spa nestled in the charming village of Sewickley Pa.
In 2001 Dorothy opened The Sewickley Spa at Ligonier Pa and in 2003 The Sewickley Spa at the Wisp Resort in Deep Creek Maryland.
In 2016, along with partners, Dorothy opened The Greene Turtle, a seafood based sports bar in Deep Creek, Maryland. Dorothy serves at the operating partner for this location.
The Pittsburgh Business Times and Bizjournals, recognized The Sewickley Spa as one of the 'Top 100 Fastest Growing Businesses' from 2001-2004.
In 2003, Governor Ed Rendell recognized Dorothy Andreas as one of Pennsylvania's 'Best 50 Women in Business'.
In 2004, Dorothy founded SpaEdge Inc, the first technology company to offer on-line printable gift cards for the beauty industry. This innovative concept transformed the beauty industry by reducing costs and enhancing convenience for both spa owners and users.
In 2006, The Winners Circle of Westmoreland County; Seton Hill University, YWCA and Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce presented Dorothy with "The Entrepreneurial Excellence Award", for positively impacting the business community in Westmoreland County, mentoring young women, and setting an example of professional business standards.
In 2007, Dorothy launched EGiftTech.com, a service for retail websites to offer instantly printed gift cards to their clients.
In 2012, Dorothy was the recipient of the ‘Top 25 Most Influential Women’ award from the Pittsburgh Business Times.
Dorothy is a recent past member of the board of The Dove Center and Shelter for victims of domestic and sexual abuse. Under her two terms as Board Chair, the agency secured funding for a 1.4M shelter. Dorothy was the 2009-13 President of the Western Maryland Health Planning Council, St Mark’s Lutheran Church Council President from 2010-2016, Founding Member; Garrett County Steps to Better Health and Garrett County Annual Health Fair. She has served on Western Md chapter of the Red Cross Board of Directors, Commission for Women, Garrett County Memorial Hospital Foundation and she was active at a Board level with the Deep Creek Lake Sailing Association. In 2016 she and her husband, Daryl, chaired The Force. This group raised 1.9M in 9 months to provide funding for a new life saving Cancer Care Center at GRMC.
Dorothy has been an active member of Women Presidents Organization since 2001. Dorothy has also participated for many years at various times with The Strategic Coach[TM], Landmark Education[TM], and is a graduate of Joel Bauer’s Mentoring4Millions[TM].
Dorothy currently resides in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Georgia with her husband, Daryl T Walters. Daryl has served the Maryland State Judicial System for over 20 years, while doing charitable work through Rotary Club, Commission for Women, Dove Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Center and Whitetails Unlimited, among other concerns. They are the proud parents of Ashley, Giuseppe, Julian and their beloved pets. Dorothy is a keynote speaker, writer, lecturer and mentor. Dorothy oversees the operation and growth of the Sewickley Spa Inc and The Greene Turtle Deep Creek. She is a keynote speaker, writer, lectures to entrepreneurial groups, and an avid supporter of women's rights, animal rights and the homeless.
More can be found on Dorothy at DorothyAndreas.com, or on Youtube, Dorothy Andreas channel.
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