Distilled Beauty Bar & Social House, Calgary, Canada

Distilled is Calgary’s best beauty bar. You’ve heard me say it on Instagram and in my stories. Now in this post I’m going to get into why I love it so much, what I’ve enjoyed there and why you should make it a destination for yourself, your friends and even the next event you’re hosting.

Let’s Talk About Style…

I could spend hours loitering at Distilled just taking in all of the décor elements. Every element of the space has been careful considered for maximum style, comfort and functionality.

I was of course immediately struck by the display of wines available and relished in the knowledge that their front of house manager was able to share about each selection.

I also love that they brew and serve ROSSO coffee and espresso, a local favourite as well as featuring some delicious snacks (with vegan options, too!).

Does Distilled sound familiar in the interior design world? Maybe you recognize them from the spread on Nam Dang-Mitchell, House & Home Magazine’s Designer of the Year and Calgary local in their latest issue. Mitchell’s design of the space is incredibly well-executed and it’s clear that every element was carefully considered.

Distilled itself exhibits a blend of effortless style and just plain cool, a direct embodiment and reflection of Distilled’s owner, Lisa, herself.

Let’s Talk About Mani-Pedis…

I love getting my nails done. A mani-pedi is one of my faves and Distilled’s Finger Bar and Toe Bar feature some unique elements. I’m not going to reveal their secrets to you here, but rather invite you to try them for yourself to appreciate what makes them different (and in my opinion, better).

Fun Fact:
Their signature manicure includes a bottle of Deborah Lippman nail polish!
(yes, you read that correctly!).

I never feel rushed through my services like I do at other places. I’ve also never had a mani-pedi last as long as the ones I’ve had at Distilled. Who wouldn’t want to pull up one of these chairs and catch up with a girlfriend or a good book? I’ve done both.

Let’s Talk About Beauty Services…

Before getting a facial at Distilled, I thought facials were just okay. My S.I.L. insisted I have one done there because they were quote “life changing” and to be honest, they most certainly are. Here’s a little of what you can expect from a Distilled Facial:

I met with their delightful skincare specialist who assessed any problem areas and asked if I had any concerns that I would like to address. She then left the room to let me prepare for the treatment.

I suggest undressing down to your undies. The no shirt/bra allows her to work on your neck and décolleté, which are often overlooked. Note: this is totally optional and based on your own comfort level – you’re completely covered, just like when you get a massage.

You will climb into the warmest, comfiest, snuggliest bed (5* hotel sheets here people!) and you will relax there while your skin is treated, nourished and cared for. You’ll walk out with a stunning glow and feeling the most relaxed you’ve felt in weeks.

Distilled offers a number of Facial Treatments and one of their staff are always happy to explain them to you and help to determine what the best fit is for your skin.

Their other amazing beauty services include lashes, brows, a full-service hair salon and coming soon: medical aesthetics!

Personal note: I had a bit of a “lash-mergency” before the holidays and their receptionist treated me with so much compassion about it. I was able to get in for a consultation with their lash specialist who recommended a lift & tint for me. More on that soon!

Why I Love Distilled & Frequent It For Services…

To be honest, I’m not a huge spa girl. I love all things relaxing and beauty-related, but I just don’t love the vibe around spas – I feel like I have to act a certain way and so I never feel fully comfortable when I’m there. This is probably why I love Distilled so much. For me, finding the perfect balance of upscale and comfortable when it comes to a beauty bar is hard to find…and they’ve nailed it.

I can pop in for a quick coffee or bite to eat with a friend (to stay or to go!), or even to just do a mindless scroll through social media (uninterrupted) at the coffee bar. I can get my nails done, my hair done, get a facial and more, either alone or in a group. I can also do so while enjoying a glass of wine.

Distilled is a place where I can be pampered all while being whoever “myself” is that day; chatty me, prosecco me, relaxed and quiet me, social me, reading a book me…