Now living in the United States with her husband and children, Ella Villanueva-Manalang, better known as Ella V., one of the members of the early 2000s girl group Viva Hotbabes, has found a new rhythm in life. Between raising a family and working as a licensed esthetician in California, her focus has shifted from the spotlight to self-care, balance, and healing.
& Spa welcomes guests with a cozy interior designed to promote relaxation,
self-care, and healing
In an interview, Ella shared that same passion has come full circle with the opening of Aura Wellness & Spa, her first beauty and wellness venture in the Philippines. Located at The Pinnacle Plaza in Cainta, Rizal, just a few meters from Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall, the spa is a collaboration with her sister Paula Villanueva, who now serves as the business’s CEO.
“This is one of the biggest projects I’ve done with my sister. We support each other fully, and this is something that came from both of our passions. She’s into nails, and I’m into skincare and holistic therapy,” Ella said.
While Ella may be miles away from home, her expertise is front and center at Aura. As a licensed esthetician, she has long used Esthemax Hydrojelly Masks in her practice in the U.S.—a professional-grade product from Korea known for its electrolyte-infused, skin-soothing benefits. She now exclusively distributes the brand in the Philippines through Aura, offering it both in treatments and retail kits.
“These masks are amazing for post-treatment care, even after lasers. We have a retail set in a box, it includes the complete set, with a bowl and spatula, for clients who want to use it at home,” she continued.
Aura Wellness & Spa offers a full menu of services including massage, facial treatments, nail care, eyelash extensions, and eyebrow tinting. But what sets it apart, Ella said, is the cozy and calming environment built around human touch and genuine care.
“I believe in investing in people, not just machines. We’re not a laser clinic. We’re a space for real, hands-on relaxation and rejuvenation,” Ella added.
With her sister running operations locally, Ella focuses on marketing, product research, and long-term strategy, including plans to franchise the spa and establish a training academy for aspiring estheticians.
“As someone who studied and trained in the U.S., I want to share that knowledge here. It’s not just about extraction or pampering. It’s about elevating the craft—non-invasive, deeply relaxing techniques that empower both the client and the therapist,” she explained.
For Ella, Aura Wellness & Spa is more than a business. It’s the physical manifestation of her journey—from an entertainer to a wellness advocate, from a U.S.-based working mom to an entrepreneur reconnecting with her roots.
“This is me giving back to the people I love, to the industry I care about, and to the country I will always call home,” she said.
The opening also served as a mini reunion of the Viva Hotbabes, with Ella’s fellow members Maui Taylor, Katya Santos, Andrea Del Rosario, Jaycee Parker, Sheree Bautista, and Zara Lopez joining her in celebrating the milestone.
“Earlier, I felt I was about to cry. It felt so surreal, like, is this really happening? Seeing everyone again, especially Katya and Jaycee, with who I’ve remained close, meant so much,” Ella stated.
Aura Wellness & Spa is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. at The Pinnacle Plaza, Marikina-Infanta Highway, Cainta, Rizal. For appointments, call 0917-183-4142.
