Correction: Mario's Spa Remains Open as Owner Announces Retirement

An earlier article on Aurora Pulse stated that Mario's Spa in Aurora had closed. That report was wrong, and it should not have run without confirmation directly from the business. Mario's International Spa, Hotel and the Cabin Restaurant remain open and continue to accept appointments and reservations. We apologize to the Liuzzo family, employees and readers for the error and any confusion or concern it caused. The corrected story below is based on a press release provided directly by the family. Joanne Liuzzo Announces Retirement After 66 Years Joanne Liuzzo, 89, is retiring from the family businesses behind Mario's International Spa, Hotel and Cabin Restaurant in Aurora. She and her late husband, Mario Liuzzo, built the businesses together over more than six decades. Mario passed away in 2022, and Joanne has continued to guide the company since. "After 66 years, it is time for me to begin the next chapter of my life," Joanne said. "Mario and I were fortunate to have so many wonderful employees, customers, friends and families become part of our lives. This business has never simply been a business to us. It has been our family, our home and our connection to so many people." The family businesses include Mario's Beauty Salon, Inc., Mario's International Spa and Hotel, and the Cabin Restaurant of Mario's International Spa and Hotel. Over the years, the Mario's name has been part of communities across Northeast Ohio, including Maple Heights, Parma, Chagrin Falls, Aurora, Medina, Fairlawn and Stow, along with a destination retreat on Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick, Canada. A Family Legacy in the Spa Industry Mario began in the beauty business in the 1960s, operating an independent salon and becoming known as a premier stylist in the region. He and Joanne helped bring the spa industry to Northeast Ohio in the late 1970s with The Aurora House Spa, which later became Mario's International Spa. Through the 1980s and 1990s, the business earned local and national recognition as a destination day and retreat spa. Businesses Remain Open During Sale The Aurora businesses and properties are being offered for sale. Hanna Commercial is handling the property listing, with Tony Visconsi managing business and sale details. The family hopes to find a buyer who will honor the history, buildings, employees and community role Mario's has held for decades. Joanne's retirement does not mean an immediate closing. The businesses will continue normal operations throughout the sale process. Spa services, overnight hotel stays, dining, private events and holiday parties will continue to be welcomed, and gift cards will still be accepted for redemption under a new policy. A Farewell Season Ahead Joanne plans to spend the months leading up to her 90th birthday celebrating the people and memories tied to Mario's. Retirement events, special promotions and celebrations are planned throughout the fall. A Farewell Holiday Celebration is also planned, beginning the first week of November, when Joanne will personally oversee the final Cabin Restaurant holiday decor and festivities. "I hope the Mario's legacy will continue in some way," Joanne said. "Most of all, I want to thank everyone who has supported us over the years, the customers who came through our doors, the employees who gave us their time and talents, and the many families who allowed us to be part of their lives. I will always be grateful."