He answered an ad in the paper for a “bath sommelier” at The Fairmont Hotel, and now Sean Campbelle is concocting sensual soaks for guests full time.
How did you become a bath sommelier?
There was an ad in the paper, and I applied! I was honest that I had never drawn baths before. Bath sommelier sounded intriguing to me–I wasn’t even sure what it entailed. In the past I’ve worked in health clubs, so it was a good fit.
What kind of experience do you need to be a bath sommelier?
I think you just have to enjoy a bath and have some incredible senses, like sense of smell and sense of feel because it really is an experience to draw the bath. We test the water with a thermometer to make sure it’s the appropriate temperature. I never had “bath experience” before I started, but I think I’m a pro now.
What bath would you recommend for couples?
One of my favorites is the Archipelago Botanicals Milk Bath. We pour some rice salt milk, some soy bath milk and soy cream milk in the tub. We provide a bar of soy soap and light a soy candle, along with votive candles. And we also give them a selection of what type of music they’d like to listen to during their bath–whether it’s classical or jazz. We also have some nature sounds: babbling brooks, waves, whatever they’re into. We top all of our baths off with rose petals.
What’s the craziest request you’ve ever had?
A chocolate milk bath. We did some great chocolate-covered strawberries that we tuxedo-dipped, and some other chocolate-dipped fruit. And a little side of whipped cream.
Five different Serenity Baths are available from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily for $50 each, plus 18 percent gratuity. Add-ons, including gel eye masks and champagne or wine instead of mineral water, cost extra; customized baths are available with 24 hours of notice.
