I have a new domain name, www.affinitymassages.com, that'll also link to this website. My new client specific cards will show this website name.

I'm also thinking of doing a client referral program--maybe $$ off his/her 3rd massage. They would have cards they would have hole punched, like at a hair salon.

Finally, I'm happy to offer instant gift certificates online. They're the perfect gift for Mothers' Day (May 11), Fathers' Day (June 15). Or if you happen to be in Australia or New Zealand, you'll send them a gift on September 15. Of course, Mothering Sunday in the U.K. was March 2 this year, so you'll have to wait until March 22 of 2009 to give her a lovely gift for that purpose.

Being a mother myself, I'd be happy to receive a gift certificate for massage any day of the week, even if it was 12 days after my birthday.

Of course, only you will know when it's appropriate to by a gift for your anniversary, spouse's birthday, graduation, etc. The great thing about massage gift certificates is that they're non fattening and they make the recipient feel so darn good...

Our dear friend Steve, from Wendling Remodeling, was of great assistance in installing 4 sets of bars into the new office yesterday. As it's a commercial building, the existing studs were large metal ones. Steve and Paul had to make 8 wood studs, install some posts and add some more wood above the drop ceiling tile.

My husband took pictures of me drilling into the studs so that students would be able to see me with wood chips in eyes. Note to self: use protective goggles next time!

The bars look fabulous--they just need to be screwed into the eyebolts, which won't take long. Can't wait to have my first class there!

No, I haven't changed my own name. I've changed the "doing business as" part of my business.  I'm still Mary-Claire Fredette, LMT, LLC.  But my executive board  (my husband) and I have decided that with spring, a new location and a completely diferent feel to my business, that a business name change was in order.

Studio Ashiatsu will now be known as (drumroll, please) Affinity Massage Studio. "Affinity" means "a natural liking to something," so what better name for massage than to naturally be drawn toward it?

It's been ages since I've posted, so I just want to let you know that I've finally moved to a new, larger location. Although my old place had plenty of character, the time was right to move into a new building.

With lots of light, ample parking and a quiet atmosphere, my new studio is off the beaten path and ideal for both classes and massage therapy.

I'm located at 7813 Affinity Place, Cincinnati, OH 45231, in Mt. Healthy. Coffee fans will find College Hill Coffee Company and Starbucks within a few miles...