ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — A spa in St. Augustine has filed for bankruptcy shortly after unexpectedly closing its doors, despite recently offering a tempting gift card promotion. The business had reassured customers with the statement, “No we aren’t going out of business,” but has now confirmed on Facebook that they’ve filed for bankruptcy.

Small Indulgences Day Spa, a popular spa serving the St. Augustine community for 25 years, announced its closure on May 6.

The enticing offer of “buy one gift card, get 20 free” unfortunately left many of the spa’s patrons out of hundreds of dollars as the business ceased operations.

On Monday, the spa announced via a Facebook post that they have initiated Chapter 7 bankruptcy proceedings in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida.

“This was an extremely difficult decision, but the ongoing economic challenges and business difficulties forced the owner to explore all available options, including a court supervised liquidation,” the post states.

The post also states that a trustee appointed by a federal court will investigate the spa and oversee its liquidation.

The case was filed by LaFleur Law Firm, according to the post; you can reach out to them at 904-797-7995.

For Small Indulgences customers who still have gift cards from the spa, some St. Augustine businesses are honoring the gift cards.

Inspire Aesthetics and Wellness is offering up to $100 in facial or aesthetic services per person to anyone who can show proof of purchase or a valid Small Indulgences gift card. That offer is available through July 31.

Other businesses, including Wave Salon and Spa and nail services by Crystal Stone, are also honoring the unused gift cards.

Cassie Maltimore, owner of Inspire Aesthetics and Wellness, said she felt compelled to help after seeing the community’s response to Small Indulgences’ closure on social media.

“St. Augustine is a small town that’s getting bigger, but still has that small town feel, and I think this is just a great opportunity to still showcase that we are here in the same boat together and that we’re here to take care of each other,” she said.