A POPULAR Chester-based health and wellbeing business opened its new store with the help of MP Samantha Dixon.

The Scented Garden Retreat opened its second branch in Old Port Square in the Garden Quarter at the end of August. The business, which was first established in Chester in 1995, has expanded from its headquarters on Northgate Row after an increase in demand.

The canal side venue will offer the same services as the flagship retreat alongside a range of advanced skin treatments, including micro needling and microdermabrasion. The expansion means that customers can now expect a dramatic reduction in waiting times.

The launch was marked with a well-attended grand opening including guest of honour, MP Samantha Dixon, Chester City and The Garden Quarter Councillors: Katrina Kerr, Paul Chamberlain and Ben Walker and local man of mystery, Sh*t Chester.

Chester and District Standard: L to R: Dermalogica Senior Team [Daniella Lisner, Michelle Hindmarch, Sally Penford, Angela Taylor] and Laura Heywood (centre).L to R: Dermalogica Senior Team [Daniella Lisner, Michelle Hindmarch, Sally Penford, Angela Taylor] and Laura Heywood (centre). (Image: Scented Garden Retreat)

Owner, Laura Heywood, thanked local businesses, Chester BID, family, friends and the Garden Quarter community for their support, saying: "To get to this stage in our growth has been profound. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be opening a second shop."

As guest of honour, MP Samantha Dixon was invited to cut the ribbon.

Ms Dixon said: "It’s been fantastic to see the way Laura’s business has evolved over the last couple of years and this is an amazing step forward, a brave step forward by a very brave woman! I’m sure those of you that come to see Laura regularly know that at the heart of her business are her values. For those of that you talk to her and her staff in that lovely relaxing atmosphere its’ a nourishing and supportive place."

Guests were treated to a live performance from Chester’s LGBTQ+ Choir, Proud Mary’s while they were invited to explore the second home for Scented Garden Retreat. The local community of the Garden Quarter were in attendance displaying their support for the new business.

Richard Trotter of notorious Chester Blog, Sh*t Chester, said: "This is a wonderful addition to the Garden Quarter and I wish Laura and her team great success."

Further information including how to book for the Scented Garden Retreat Skin Clinic can be found at: www.scented-garden.co.uk or by calling 01244 312700.