Don't have an issue adjusting to the policies of spas regarding payment. My only experiences have been to pay the entire fee at the reception desk, or to pay the fees to the MA. Either way works for me.
Was at another spa a few years ago and the entire fee was collected by reception. This happened a couple of times and was explained as a convenience to the MA. Seemed fine to me and there were no issues. The practice at the other spa (not Alpha) varied with each visit, perambulating between paying at reception or paying the MA. Seemed like good teamwork to spare the MAs the inconvenience of collecting, and didn't have an issue with the policy. Didn't see anything about it online and didn't think to mention it.
Have been to Alpha quite a few times and have paid the MAs directly on the majority of visits. Think clients paid reception when I first joined, recall using a credit card on occasion, then went to paying the MAs in the room, then back to prepayment very recently. Didn't seem like a huge issue to me. Just went with the flow, followed policy, and made sure my bills were paid.
Saw Jessica in passing recently and we had a very pleasant convo. Have nothing but admiration for her and all the Alpha ladies.
Have sessioned with Cocoa a few times and have utmost respect for her. A lovely young woman.
Angel has poured drinks for me and brewed up cappuccinos. Jessica too! The pressures the receptionists, MAs and management are under are considerable. They deal with a lot of items simultaneously, and keep things moving along smoothly.
Flying beneath the radar is the role played by the client, who was either unaware of the pre-payment policy or was disingenuous about it.
His actions, by intent or omission, caused a lot of heartache. Shame on him if it was deliberate. He should have figured out what was going on and made payment to settle up so everyone was happy. Clients have a role to play in successful appointments.
If I was the client and got turned around by a mix-up in payment policies would have been profoundly embarrassed and apologetic. Would have settled up right away and made sure the ladies were happy with the finances. Then topped off the session with some drinks
Maybe the scofflaw scurried down the back stairs or dipped down the elevator, smirking over non-payment, or was completely oblivious to what happened. Men are sometimes oblivious to most things, except for women, sports, drinks, autos, fitness, politics ... the essentials.
Am saddened by how things blew up online, and by the ad hominem attacks leveled at the ladies. They are all capable, intelligent, honest, professional, powerful and principled women who were left to deal with the fallout when the client failed to follow policies, pay his bills, and show respect to the beautiful women who provided him with a great experience. Shame on him.
Best to be aware of policies and make sure all parties are satisfied to ensure the appointment was satisfactory and can be repeated.