J'Adore

A long time ago, ok, maybe not so long ago, during my days as the West Hollywood PR guy, I stumbled upon a charming, tucked away spa on Nemo Street. It was my job. That is, walking in, taking a tour, talking to the owners/managers and then trying to convince them to give my pool of media, freebies. And time and time again I would often get looks of confusion, concern or outright disdain from the variety of businesses, especially the notorious spas. This particular day was different. Not because I was treated like royalty or because my wine glass had no bottom here. But because from the first day I walked in, I felt special, loved, heck even wanted? This place had a story, a personality by the name of Topper Schroeder, a 70-something year old man who loved and lived more passionately than I ever knew at that point. He was a record exec back in the day who ventured down the fragrance path in hopes of creating something he could wear without risking an asthma attack. Several years later, The Gendarmerie was created to give life to all he embodied, a love for people, friends and the good life. Now, The Gendarmerie continues to hold a special place in my heart, my home away from home, if you will. Among other things, haircuts, manicures, facials, massages, conversations and friends will always find you here. People often say LA is so cold and lonely. They obviously haven't spent one single minute at The Gendarmerie. http://www.thegendarmerie.com/