FAQ's
Hey there! I'm so happy you're considering a massage at Be Your After (BYA). To make your Experience as relaxing and enjoyable as possible, we've put together some answers to frequently asked questions.
General Questions:
Q: Where are you located?
A: BYA is conveniently located in the University Research Park area of Charlotte, NC, at 9625 David Taylor Drive, Charlotte, NC 28262
Q: What are your hours of operation?
A: Monday: 8-6
Tuesday: 8-6
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 8-6
Friday 8-4
Saturday 8-5
Sunday: Closed
Q: Do you accept walk-ins?
A: No, BYA operates by appointment only. Same day appointments, though rare, are only open to existing clients and are sent out via text or email notification when available.
Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
A: Initial deposits are made with a credit, FSA/HSA or debit card. Remaining balance and any optional gratuity can be resolved with cash, credit cards, FSA/HSA and contactless payments via Apple Pay, Venmo and Zelle. (Cashapp is not accepted)
Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: No, insurance is currently not accepted at BYA. Cash, credit cards, FSA/HSA and contactless payments via Apple Pay, Venmo and Zelle are all welcome.
Q: I’m not a Black woman or athlete of color can I still come to BYA?
A: I mean, I guess. Be Your After is specifically designed to fill the gap and cater to the needs of Black women and athletes of color. We've worked tirelessly to create a safe and inclusive space for those who often feel overlooked or underserved in traditional wellness settings.
Given that mission, I am curious as to why you, someone who has other options, are interested in a space specifically designed for Black women and athletes of color who do not.
If, after exploring other options that would likely better suit your specific needs, you'd still like to book an Experience, then come on.
Preparing for your Experience:
Q: This is my first professional massage, I’m a little nervous! What should I expect?
A: No worries, we got you! We will discuss your goals for the session, areas of concern, pressure preference, boundaries, and session communication to create a personalized Experience just for you.
Q: What is the difference between a Relaxation massage and bodywork?
A: Relaxation massages focus on stress relief and overall well-being, while bodywork targets specific areas of pain, restriction or injury. Fortunately here at BYA you never have to choose between the two.
Q: I'm worried a massage will be painful. Will it hurt?
A: Black people do not suffer at Be Your After, PERIOD! The one rule of the house is “Don’t thug it out” meaning use your voice and do not suffer in silence. Please speak up if anything is remotely uncomfortable for you so that the proper adjustments can be made. The goal is Relaxation, never pain.
Q: I am nursing an injury. Can I still get a massage?
A: Of course, just let us know on your intake form and/or during your consultation and we'll tailor the Experience to your specific needs and avoid aggravating the injury.
Q: Anything I should avoid before my massage?
A: Skip heavy meals, alcohol, or intense workouts right before your appointment. Come relaxed and ready to unwind!
Q: My period just started. Should I reschedule my massage?
A: Girl, no! Black women disproportionately deal with painful and heavy cycles so you probably need your BYA Experience now more than ever. Even if your period isn’t problematic, therapeutic massage can counteract many of the symptoms you may be dealing with and is completely safe during your period.
Check out this video for more information:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C1GVvGjujZc/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Q: When should I arrive?
A: To be honest, if you’re on time you’re late, arriving 10 minutes early for your BYA Experience is ideal especially if you’re a new client, anything has changed or if you’re getting a service for the first time. This allows time to use the restroom if needed, consult with your therapist and unwind for the unhurried and relaxing Experience you deserve.
Q: Do I need to shower before my massage appointment?
A: Ideally yes, with a washcloth, there’s no such thing as too fresh, but it’s not mandatory. That said, your therapist doesn’t come to your massage smelling like “Who shot John” so you shouldn’t either because believe me, we can smell everything.
Check out this video for more information:
https://www.instagram.com/tv/C0QHVxTIYwc/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Q: What should I wear?
A: Loose, comfortable clothing is best. Draping is provided for your personal comfort and modesty, but feel free to wear something you can easily get in and out of for your session. Remember to remove any jewelry and/or watches as well.
Q: Do I have to get completely naked for my massage?
A: That’s totally up to you. All 60 and 90 minute Experiences are full body massages so you will get undressed to your personal comfort level. For most clients, that means they keep on their underwear and remove everything else. Draping is provided for your personal comfort and modesty and only the area of your body being worked on will be uncovered at any given time.
Q: Can I wear a bonnet or durag during my massage to protect my hair?
A: The way these stylists are taxing, why wouldn’t you? BYA is all about protecting edges, waves, bussdowns and braids. Feel free to bring your bonnet or durag for your Experience and don’t hesitate to ask if you forgot it, there are usually a couple extras on hand for client use.
Scheduling Questions:
Q: How often should I get massages?
A: The frequency of your massages depends on your individual needs and goals. Committing to the unapologetic self-care you deserve through regular massages can improve their overall health and well-being. It is highly recommended that you book your next Experience while in the BYA suite to maintain consistency.
Q: What is BYA’s policy if I need to reschedule my Experience?
A: No problem! Text (980) 214-4868 at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled appointment to reschedule your eligible Experience within 30 days of the original appointment.
Q: What is BYA’s policy if I need to cancel my Experience?
A: It's understandable that things come up, but please give at least 48 hours written notice via text to (980) 214-4868 to avoid a late notification fee equal to the full Experience cost.
After Care and Water Intake Questions:
Q: What should I do after my massage to maximize the benefits?
A: Listen to your body! Drink plenty of water, rest, and mind your business for at least a few hours post Experience. Take the time to let the Relaxation flow through you and bask in the Black excellence of your Be Your After Experience.
Q: How much water should I drink before and after my massage?
A: Aim for 1-2 glasses of water 30 minutes to an hour before and after your massage to stay hydrated. Massage stimulates your circulatory and lymphatic systems, increasing your water helps them work more efficiently to maximize your results.
Q: Will I be sore after my massage?
A: Mild soreness is normal, especially the next day, but can be reduced by being properly hydrated before and after your Experience and making sure to speak up during session if anything is painful or uncomfortable.
Remember, these are just general questions and answers. If you have any specific questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to ask during your consult. We are here to make your Be Your After Experience truly special!