2016 ISPA VISIONARY AWARD
Life and Legacy of
Geraldine Howard
BY MAE MAÑACAP-JOHNSON
S
ome people attain immortality by the legacy they leave. This is true for the late Geraldine Howard,
co-founder of Aromatherapy Associates, who helped pave the way in pushing the art of
aromatherapy front and center in modern-day spa experiences. Her knowledge and passion for
plant extracts and essential oils will forever be part of her lasting legacy. “Geraldine’s passion for
Aromatherapy Associates was infectious. She was always extremely consistent with her vision and wanted to
spread the word about aromatherapy. Her legacy will live on in the brand,” says Aromatherapy Associates C EO
Tracy Woodward.
Beyond her success with Aromatherapy Associates, Howard is known for her magnanimous spirit, the kind
that inspires others. There are many stories of how she led by example or put her team members’ interest
above hers, a true hallmark of a leader. For her contributions to the spa industry, the ISPA community will
honor Howard’s memory and legacy at this year’s ISPA Conference & Expo with a 2016 ISPA Visionary Award.
Howard’s husband, Peter Redman, will be accepting the award on stage on her behalf.
A Love Affair with Aromatherapy
Howard’s love affair with aromatherapy started out of necessity.
While in her 20s, she suffered from insomnia and anxiety. For
a period of time, she had to take Valium to help ease the
symptoms. Then, she heard about the healing power of
aromatherapy while studying Cosmetic Science at the London
College of Fashion under the tutelage of Micheline Arcier, a
student of aromatherapy founders Marguerite Maury (Austrian
biochemist and skin-care pioneer) and Dr. Jean Valnet (expert
in the science of essential oils). It wasn’t long before she
“flushed the pills down the loo.”
The training gave Howard a new perspective about self-care.
“Training under Micheline was a pivotal point in Geraldine’s
career. She started to understand how people should be looking
42
PULSE
■
September 2016
after themselves,” Woodward says.
In 1985, Howard and Aromatherapy Associates co-founder
Sue Beechey launched the company with the intent of making
people feel better as well as share the power of aromatherapy
to as many as possible.
Contributions to the Industry
Throughout her career, Howard made a significant impact to
the spa industry through her daily work in educating clients
and guests on the benefits of essential oils. “From the moment
Geraldine discovered the power of essential oils, she wanted to
educate everyone about how to use aromatherapy in their dayto-day lives. This carried into her work with Aromatherapy
Associates too,” she says.