{"id":26700,"date":"2026-06-18T19:53:33","date_gmt":"2026-06-18T19:53:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/handandstone.com\/franchise\/?p=26700"},"modified":"2026-06-18T19:55:34","modified_gmt":"2026-06-18T19:55:34","slug":"local-entrepreneurs-and-loyal-saginaw-community-members-expand-into-the-wellness-category-with-family-run-hand-stone","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/handandstone.com\/franchise\/blog\/local-entrepreneurs-and-loyal-saginaw-community-members-expand-into-the-wellness-category-with-family-run-hand-stone\/","title":{"rendered":"Local Entrepreneurs and Loyal Saginaw Community Members Expand into the Wellness Category with Family-Run Hand & Stone"},"content":{"rendered":"

Saginaw, MI \u2013 June 18, 2026 \u2013 <\/strong>Seasoned business owners and longtime Saginaw residents Dave and Ruth Buko are expanding their entrepreneurial catalog with Michigan\u2019s newest Hand & Stone Massage & Facial Spa.<\/a> Located at 5709 State St. in Saginaw, Dave and Ruth bring an extensive background in franchise ownership to this venture, but what excites them most is the opportunity to create a welcoming hub of self-care for the community they call home.<\/p>\n

The Saginaw spa represents an exciting new chapter for both Hand & Stone\u2019s continued growth and the Buko family\u2019s entrepreneurial journey. Before entering the wellness space, Dave spent 25 years in leadership roles across Dow Chemical and Comcast, while Ruth was an attorney with LeFever & LeFevre. Together, they successfully owned and operated 15 Tropical Smoothie Cafes across two states and continue to build their portfolio with opportunities best aligned with their values.<\/p>\n

\u201cHand & Stone combines structured operations with the ability to build meaningful local relationships. It\u2019s not just about transactions \u2014 it\u2019s about improving how people feel every day,\u201d says Dave. Hand & Stone particularly stood out to the Bukos because they feel it strikes the right balance between purpose and performance.<\/p>\n

The brand\u2019s national recognition and proven systems were major differentiators for the Bukos, allowing them to focus on leadership, team culture, and community engagement. They also recognize that wellness isn\u2019t a trend. \u201cMassage and skincare are becoming part of people\u2019s regular health routines, not just luxury splurges,\u201d says Dave. The combination of recurring revenue, industry growth, strong brand infrastructure, and positive impact ultimately drew the family in.<\/p>\n

As active members of their local community and having raised six children in Saginaw, Dave and Ruth aim to create a true wellness hub where busy professionals, athletes, seniors, and families can reset and recharge. The spa will be family-operated, with daughter Maria Buko serving as Manager alongside Nancy Buszka. Beyond providing spa services, including massages and facials, they are focused on empowering therapists and estheticians with career opportunities and development.<\/p>\n

\"Saginaw<\/p>\n

The spa will feature a wide array of services delivered by licensed therapists and estheticians, including signature offerings such as:<\/p>\n