Wildling has opened its first-ever studio in Santa Monica, transforming its established online-only philosophy into a tangible physical presence. This new location is nestled within the Edgemar complex, a building renowned for its architectural significance designed by the famous architect Frank Gehry. The space operates as a hybrid environment, functioning simultaneously as a retail store, a treatment room, and a community hub. Co-founders Gianna De La Torre and Jill Munson aimed to create a “modern ritual destination” where customers can actively practice skin health rather than simply purchasing products.
Unlike a standard retail shop, the Wildling Studio prioritizes education and tactile engagement over passive browsing. Visitors have the opportunity to purchase the brand’s signature Bian stone gua sha tools and skincare products in person, but the primary draw is the hands-on experience available on-site. The facility offers full skin consultations and guided gua sha lessons, ensuring that customers understand how to utilize the tools effectively. Additionally, the studio provides 30-minute express facial treatments tailored to address specific skin concerns through touch.
The facial treatments offered at the studio are structured around three distinct objectives: Sculpt, Depuff, and Release. The Sculpt treatment integrates gua sha tools with lymphatic massage techniques to lift and revitalize the complexion. Depuff focuses specifically on improving lymphatic flow to combat the common issue of waking up with facial swelling. Release targets tension held in the jaw, neck, and face, offering a practical solution for individuals who spend extended hours looking at screens.
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The brand is positioning the studio as a full gathering place for various wellness activities. It supports a “slow beauty” approach, emphasizing that skincare is a practice to be cultivated over time rather than a quick application. The programming extends beyond facials to include workshops, masterclasses, and private sessions. These events cover a wide range of topics, including lymphatic health, facial massage, movement, meditation, and energy work.
Watching a tutorial on a screen differs significantly from learning in a physical environment. Wildling’s founders have previously highlighted that people often make the mistake of applying too much pressure when beginning their gua sha journey. The studio provides a necessary space for instructors to correct this technique, teaching the correct angle and sequence for optimal results. This hands-on approach aligns with the brand’s history of educating customers on the principles of lymphatic health and intentional touch, allowing the brand to deepen its connection with the community.
The Wildling Studio is located at 2443 Main Street in Santa Monica’s Edgemar complex. Current treatments, workshops, and events are available for booking online.
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