Alem Spa Is Putting Ethiopian Spa Culture on Atlanta’s Wellness Map
By Faisale Shefawe
Published on 05/26/25
From a young age, Alem Berihun knew her passion was helping people look and feel their best, no matter how much time it took. When family and friends came to visit or were preparing for special events, Alem made sure their hairstyles were flawless, and their manicures and pedicures were in top shape. She always made them feel beautiful, inside and out—except for the time she shaved her sister’s eyebrows and had to face a serious talk with their father.
Decades later, across the Atlantic in Atlanta, Georgia, Alem has transformed that childhood passion into a thriving business: Alem Spa, a wellness center rooted in traditional Ethiopian healing practices.
A Journey from Tech to Wellness
In the mid-1990s, Alem moved to London, where she attended the University of North London (now London Metropolitan University) and later earned a certificate in aesthetics from the London School of Fashion. Her time there cemented her desire to build a career in the beauty and wellness industry.
An Ancient Practice, Rediscovered
Alem first experienced Weyba Tis in 2004. The traditional wellness practice blends elements of sauna therapy, herbal medicine, and beauty treatments. The process involves sitting on a stool over a small fire fueled by twigs, herbs, and wood from the Weyba tree. The rising smoke and heat are believed to provide a range of therapeutic benefits, including relief from muscle aches, joint pain, postpartum recovery, and various skin conditions.
Though Alem didn’t initially feel any significant benefits, she would rediscover the power of Weyba Tis a few years later.
Weyba Tis Spa in Ethiopia A Life-Changing Experience
After her marriage, Alem spent 15 years traveling the world and raising two children. In 2022, she moved to the United States permanently. Shortly before relocating, she gave Weyba Tis another chance—this time inspired by a stylist’s stories of people whose health and fertility dramatically improved after the treatment.
Curious, Alem tried the ritual again. Within days, she began to notice unexpected improvements in her own health. The results were undeniable—and transformative.
Introducing Alem Spa
By the time Alem settled in the U.S., she knew exactly what her next business venture would be: a spa center focused on traditional Ethiopian wellness, with Weyba Tis at its core.
In March 2024, she opened Alem Spa in Stone Mountain, Georgia, just 25 minutes from downtown Atlanta. In addition to traditional Ethiopian treatments, the spa also offers Moroccan baths and facial services.
From the moment customers walk through the door, the experience feels uniquely cultural. Ethiopian art covers the walls, and guests are welcomed with a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, complete with freshly brewed coffee served at no extra charge.
A Growing Community
In just a few months, Alem Spa has gained a loyal following. Visitors now travel from North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida to experience the spa’s healing treatments.
“I now have regular customers from out of state,” Alem says. “Once they try it, they keep coming back.”
Her favorite moments are when clients call to share incredible stories of healing and hope. “I love it when someone tells me they don’t need surgery anymore,” she says, “or when they call to say they’re finally becoming parents after years of trying.”
Looking Ahead
Alem sees massive potential in traditional spa treatments, which is why she hopes to expand the business and serve more guests, especially large groups who visit for special occasions like bachelorette parties or birthdays.
Sometimes, she has to turn away entire groups due to limited space, something she hopes to change in the near future.
Alem believes she can help bring ancient Ethiopian wellness to a wider audience. “It’s in my blood to help people feel better,” she says, “and this is just the beginning.”