Former Goldman Sachs Analyst Opens a Chic Spa in Dallas’ Most Eclectic Neighborhood

Ennis, Texas native Kristin Barton cut her business chops working at Goldman Sachs in New York and then as treasurer and fund-raising manager for a congressional political campaign in Dallas.

Yearning for something a bit more creative, she decided to use her business acumen to open a brick-and-mortar shop in Dallas’ eclectic Lower Greenville district.

Vivian’s Boutique Spa recently opened at the corner of Ross and Greenville avenues, named after Barton’s beloved niece. It boasts five chic treatment rooms where guests can choose from a variety of facials and waxing services.

There’s also a luxury lounge, private dressing areas, manicure bar, intimate retail area, and custom pedicure chairs. (Barton’s former woodworking teacher at Ennis High School referred her to a woodshop in Ennis to build the chairs. Each has a tub basin hidden under sliding doors made of wood and brass.)

Keeping it local, Vivian’s Boutique uses Carrollton-based Jack Black men’s grooming products and FarmHouse Fresh goods from the brand’s McKinney ranch, plus Jurlique natural skincare and eco-friendly Zoya nail polish.

Barton continues her green theme throughout the space with re-purposed suitcases and furniture used as shelving; the pedicure area’s backdrop wall is made of tin recovered from a downtown Dallas building.

Top-of-the-line spa treatments for men and women include the Milk & Honey Luxe Mani ($55) and Pedi ($75), a 90-minute Gentleman’s Facial ($155), 90-minute Ageless Facial ($185), and 60-minute Signature Facial ($110). For summer, Barton recommends the Porefection Facial.

“Summertime means heat, sweat, and sunscreen — factors that can clog pores and wreak havoc on skin,” she says. “This double-cleansing facial purifies and calms irritated summer skin.”

Vivian’s is open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 11 am to 7 pm, and Sundays from noon to 6 pm.

Vivian’s Boutique Spa, 5420 Ross Ave., 214.484.4714.