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Buddies Spa Owner Kris Otto Reflects on His First Year in Mount Vernon Triangle

Friday October 3, 2025

Buddies Spa celebrated its one year anniversary in Mount Vernon Triangle on Saturday, September 20. Reflecting on the past year, Kris and his team shared the following remarks (edited slightly for brevity):

Buddies Spa has not only provided a haven for relaxation and self-care but has also become a cornerstone for the LGBTQIA community, fostering connections, friendships, and a sense of belonging.

“When I opened Buddies Spa, I wanted to create more than just a business,” Kris explains. “I wanted to build a community, a family, where people could come and be themselves without fear of judgment or rejection.” And that’s exactly what has happened.

Over the past year, Buddies Spa has become a hub for LGBTQIA+ individuals, allies, and friends, hosting events, fundraisers, and gatherings that promote unity, acceptance, and empowerment. From charity fundraisers to Pride celebrations during World Pride, the spa has been at the forefront of community-driven initiatives, solidifying its position as a beloved institution in the neighborhood.

As the spa looks to the future, Kris remains committed to expanding its reach and impact. “We’re just getting started,” he says with a smile. “We want to continue to build on the momentum we’ve created, partnering with local organizations, hosting more events, and providing a platform for our community to thrive.”

The first anniversary celebration was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and love that has gone into building Buddies Spa.  As the spa celebrates its first year, the future looks bright. With Kris Otto at the helm, this beloved institution will continue to plant roots, nurture connections, and spread love, acceptance, and community throughout the Mount Vernon Triangle neighborhood and beyond.

We are proud to have such a passionate community hub here in the neighborhood and echo Kris’s excited sentiments for Buddies’ future!

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