There’s nothing that spoils a soothing spa treatment more than the feeling that you’ve been hoodwinked, but such was the case today as I ended a lovely facial session at Amarra Spa and Salon.

The spa enticed me to trek out to O’Fallon for a deep cleansing facial with their March 40 percent off special service (on massage, facials and select salon services). I was alerted by email and booked promptly. I referred to the special and was told that the service was indeed available and ready to be scheduled.

I arrived late because of that awfully little construction business on the highway, but no one seem fettered about it. So I relaxed. My facial began with a foot rub. At first I was worried that my treatment request was confused, but it wasn’t. The foot soak, rub and scrub was a simple treat to set the tone.

The music was a little too piano-in-the-mall for my taste, but everything else was above par. The scents were intoxicating, but not overbearing. The technique of my specialist, Christa, was A+. The neck, shoulder and arm massage was above standard and she addressed every question about my treatment and skin ailments with a thoughtful and informed response.

Then I went to check out and was told that I would not receive my promised 40 percent off because I had not brought in the coupon from the email. Hmmm, I don’t remember a coupon on the email. So rather than argue, I paid $72 and left Christa a tip in gratitude for the imparted serenity.

Of course, I checked my email when I returned to the office and, sure enough, there is absolutely no coupon and no mention of a need to print out the email and bring it to the salon to receive the promised discount. It’s a shame when bad business happens to good people.

So just a tip, if you Amarra Spa & Salon offers you a deal, don’t forget to ask for the catch.