Heather Brown is the founder and owner of Body by Design, a trusted holistic wellness spa with a 17-year legacy in Ross Township and a newly opened location in McCandless, Pennsylvania. A proud Black woman entrepreneur and dedicated wellness advocate, Heather has built more than a business—she has cultivated a healing sanctuary centered on pain relief, personalized care, and community well-being.

Voted “Best Spa/Medical Spa” and “Best Therapeutic Massage in Pittsburgh North” by TribLive readers, Body by Design is known for its intentional, client-centered approach to healing. The spa specializes in matching clients with therapists skilled in targeted modalities such as Trigger Point Therapy, cupping, bamboo and hot stone massage, and reflexology, ensuring each session is customized to meet individual needs.

Heather’s path to wellness entrepreneurship was unconventional. Holding degrees in political science and public relations, she initially pursued a traditional career before answering a calling to massage therapy and holistic healing. That leap of faith led her to open Body by Design in 2008, grounded in a mission to help people restore their health and reconnect with their bodies.

As part of her expansion into McCandless, Heather is launching a Community Wellness Series to celebrate holistic health, self-care, and the growing network of wellness advocates throughout the Pittsburgh North region. She is also introducing a new workplace wellness initiative through Employee Assistance Program (EAP) benefits, allowing local employers to invest in their teams’ well-being through therapeutic services designed to reduce burnout and increase productivity.

Heather describes Body by Design as a space where “your session can be different every single time,” reflecting her commitment to individualized care and pain-focused treatment. Her faith, creativity, and purpose are woven throughout the spa—from its name, inspired by Psalm 139:14, to its thoughtfully designed treatment rooms that transport clients to serene environments, including palm tree paradises and mountain oases.

Heather, Body by Design has been a trusted name in wellness for 17 years. What inspired you to create a holistic spa that focuses on both healing and community?

God created me with a deep compassion for people who are hurting — and in truth, that includes all of us at some point. Whether the pain is physical, emotional, or spiritual, it’s real, and it matters. I’ve seen far too many people dismissed or misunderstood by the traditional medical system, labeled as “med-seeking” or “crazy,” when what they truly need is to be seen, heard, and cared for.

Body by Design was created to be that kind of safe space — a place where healing begins the moment you walk through the door. We believe there’s a direct connection between what’s happening in a person’s body and what’s happening in their life. Through compassionate care and therapeutic touch, we help bridge that gap. While we may not have every answer, our mission is to connect people with the resources and support they need to experience true, whole-body wellness.

You’ve said Body by Design is more than just a spa — it’s a sanctuary. What does that mean to you, and how does that experience come to life for your clients?

To me, a sanctuary is more than a beautiful space — it’s a feeling of peace, safety, and renewal. It’s where vulnerability is welcomed, and breakthroughs can happen. As a single mom and business owner, life can be demanding and fast-paced, so I understand the importance of having a place that allows you to pause, breathe, and recharge.

When I met with Toya from An Interior Decorator, I shared my desire to create a space that felt both luxurious and deeply nurturing — where every client would feel special from the moment they walked through the door. Toya and her team truly brought that vision to life. From what you see, smell, hear, feel, and even taste, every detail was intentionally designed to awaken the senses and restore peace. Body by Design isn’t just a spa — it’s a sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul.

Your background in political science and public relations is so different from wellness. What sparked your decision to pivot careers and step into holistic health?

It’s true — I originally planned to become a lawyer, maybe even a politician. I studied Political Science and Public Relations at Geneva College, but during my senior year, after working for both a lawyer and a politician, I quickly realized that path wasn’t aligned with my heart. God wired me for connection — my gifts are relational, empathetic, and people-centered — and I knew I was called to serve in a way that brought healing rather than debate.

Stepping into holistic health felt like coming home. Over the years, I’ve found purpose, fulfillment, and joy in helping people experience relief, restoration, and renewed hope. Each member of our Body by Design team brings unique gifts and expertise, and together we create an ego-free, collaborative environment that allows our clients to truly heal. We often encourage clients to work with multiple therapists because no one person has all the answers — but collectively, we’re strong, compassionate, and deeply committed to helping people live without pain.

The name Body by Design was inspired by Psalm 139:14. How does your faith influence the way you lead your business and serve your clients?

The name Body by Design was inspired by Psalm 139:14 — “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” That verse has always reminded me that every person is created with purpose and deserving of care. In a world that often feels divided and heavy with negativity, I’ve found myself leaning even more deeply into my faith. It’s heartbreaking to see how something as pure as love or belief in God has become polarizing, but at Body by Design, our doors are open to everyone who needs a place to be restored

1 John 4:8 says, “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” My hope is that the love of Christ is evident in every interaction, every decision, and every detail of what we do. Whether someone comes to us for physical healing, emotional renewal, or simply a moment of peace, I want them to feel that love — because love truly is in the details.

After nearly two decades in Ross Township, you’ve expanded into McCandless. What does this new location represent for you personally and professionally?

Like a butterfly, growth in leadership rarely happens overnight. It unfolds in seasons — each one refining, reshaping, and preparing you for the next. When I founded Body by Design in 2008, it was born from a simple vision: to help people feel better in their bodies and find balance in their lives. Over the years, that vision has matured — through challenge, change, and the quiet cocoon seasons that demanded reflection, resilience, and renewal.

As I’ve grown, so has the business. What began as a single-room practice has transformed into a holistic wellness destination — a sanctuary where innovation meets intention. From adding advanced technologies like the Wellness and Detox Sauna and Slimwave to expanding our team and partnerships, every step has been guided by purpose: to elevate the experience of wellness while staying rooted in authenticity, compassion, and excellence.

True transformation, I’ve learned, happens both within and around us. It’s the courage to evolve — to let go of what no longer serves and make space for what’s waiting to emerge. Today, Body by Design stands in its own butterfly season: vibrant, expansive, and ready to soar, while honoring the deep roots that began this journey nearly two decades ago.

How are you blending the legacy of your Ross Township location with the new energy and community in McCandless?

We would be nothing without the loyal clients who have supported us through every season of growth and change. When it came time to relocate, I was intentional about finding our new home in McCandless — just three miles from our Ross Township space — so we could remain accessible to the community that built us.

We’re deeply grateful for those who’ve been with us since the beginning and equally excited to welcome the many new clients who have discovered us in McCandless. This new chapter beautifully blends the legacy of where we started with the vibrant energy of where we’re headed.

What can visitors expect from your new Community Wellness Series, and how do you hope it will impact the local wellness community?

Our new Community Wellness Series was created to bring people together in restorative and meaningful ways. The first event, Sound & Psalms: A Sound Bath Experience, has been a beautiful expression of that vision. I’m so proud of — and deeply grateful for — our spa manager, McKenna, whose leadership and heart brought this concept to life. She’s curated a truly grounding, meditative experience that blends sound therapy with spiritual reflection, creating space for peace and connection.

This series is just the beginning. We’re excited to offer more opportunities for the community to gather, heal, and grow together. To stay updated on upcoming events, we invite everyone to subscribe to our newsletter and follow Body by Design on social media.

Body by Design has been voted “Best Spa/Medical Spa” and “Best Therapeutic Massage” by TribLive readers. What do you think sets your team and approach apart?

What truly sets Body by Design apart is the way we listen. Every client who walks through our doors has a story, and we take the time to understand not just their symptoms, but their whole experience. We meet people with compassion — without judgment — and create a plan of care that honors both the science and the soul of healing.

Our team brings together a wealth of expertise across multiple modalities and advanced technologies, allowing us to customize each session to the client’s unique needs. From therapeutic and lymphatic massage to holistic innovations like our Wellness and Detox Sauna and Slimwave, our goal is always the same: to deliver expert care that restores balance, relieves pain, and renews the spirit.

Ultimately, our success comes from leading with heart. Awards are wonderful, but the greatest honor is seeing our clients feel better — body, mind, and soul.

You often say that “no two sessions are the same.” Why is personalized, intuitive care so central to your philosophy?

If you’re simply looking for a basic massage, there are plenty of chain spas that can provide that. But at Body by Design, our clients expect — and deserve — something deeper. Every session is personalized, intuitive, and intentionally crafted around each person’s unique needs. Our therapists truly care about what they do and how they do it. We’re continuously learning new techniques, expanding our skills, and showing up with genuine heart and presence.

You can’t learn intuition in massage school — it comes from experience, empathy, and a true desire to help others heal. I’m beyond blessed to work alongside some of the most talented and intuitive professionals in Pittsburgh. Our passion and purpose shine through in every touch, and that’s what makes the Body by Design experience so extraordinary.

Can you tell us more about the specialized techniques your team offers — like Trigger Point Therapy, cupping, and bamboo massage — and how they contribute to overall wellness?

At Body by Design, our approach to wellness goes far beyond relaxation — it’s about restoring balance, improving function, and supporting the body’s natural ability to heal. Each of our specialized techniques serves a unique purpose in that process.

Trigger Point Therapy is highly effective for relieving chronic pain and muscle tension by addressing the source of discomfort rather than just the symptoms.

Cupping Therapy enhances circulation, encourages lymphatic flow, and supports detoxification — an excellent complement to massage for recovery and inflammation.

Bamboo Massage combines warmth and therapeutic precision to melt away tension, improve mobility, and restore vitality.

Together, these modalities reflect our philosophy of intentional, integrated care — treating the body as a whole rather than isolated parts.

You’re now bringing Body by Design into workplaces through Employee Assistance Program benefits. What inspired this idea, and how do you see it transforming employee wellness?

The inspiration came from seeing how many hardworking people neglect their own well-being because of time, stress, or workplace demands. Over the years, I’ve worked with countless clients who wait until they’re in pain or burned out to prioritize self-care. I wanted to change that by helping employers make wellness more accessible — not just as a perk, but as part of a healthy, sustainable workplace culture.

Through our Employee Assistance Program partnerships, we bring Body by Design’s restorative therapies directly to teams and organizations. These services help reduce stress, improve productivity, and show employees that their well-being truly matters.

When people feel cared for — physically, mentally, and emotionally — they show up differently. They lead better, collaborate better, and live better. My hope is that this initiative helps redefine what employee wellness looks like: less reactive, more proactive, and deeply human.

Burnout is at an all-time high. How can businesses benefit from integrating holistic care into their employee wellness plans?

Burnout has become one of the biggest threats to productivity, retention, and morale in the workplace. Too often, employers try to address it after the damage is done — but holistic care allows us to take a more proactive, compassionate approach.

By integrating services like massage therapy, stress-reduction sessions, and wellness education into employee benefit plans, businesses can help their teams recharge before exhaustion sets in. These aren’t just feel-good perks; they’re strategic investments in performance, focus, and overall job satisfaction.

When people feel valued and supported, they show up with more energy, creativity, and engagement. Holistic wellness programs create a ripple effect — improving company culture, reducing absenteeism, and reminding employees that their well-being is a priority, not an afterthought.

What advice would you give to other women, especially women of color, who are ready to take that leap of faith into entrepreneurship or holistic health?

Owning a successful business takes grit, faith, and perseverance. My advice to women — especially women of color — is to find what sets your soul on fire and learn how to turn that passion into purpose. Take classes, read books, seek mentorship, and study the people who have a proven track record of success. Learn from them, but never lose your unique voice in the process.

At some point, you just have to take the leap. Don’t let fear stop you — be bold, be teachable, and stay anchored in your “why.” Entrepreneurship isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. The legacy you build will ripple beyond your lifetime and inspire generations to come.

Looking ahead, what’s next for Body by Design — and for Heather Brown? What dreams are you still designing?

I won’t tell you all of my secrets — after all, some dreams are meant to be nurtured quietly until they’re ready to bloom. What I can share is that Body by Design will continue to grow in purpose, partnership, and possibility. We’re exploring new ways to expand our services, deepen our community impact, and create transformative experiences that go beyond the walls of the spa.

As for me, I’m still dreaming — still designing. My heart is set on continued growth as a leader, a mother, and a woman of faith. Each new season brings an opportunity to listen, learn, and evolve. I’m excited for what’s next… because I know the best is yet to come.