Today we’d like to introduce you to Hanna “John” Saleh.
Hi Hanna “John”, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born and raised in Amman, Jordan, the youngest of five children. Before coming to the U.S., I worked for and retired from the Arab Potash Company and also spent years as a wrestler and personal trainer, providing bodywork for sports injuries. Those experiences taught me a deep understanding of the body, movement, and how therapeutic touch can make a real difference.
I came to America in 2019 because I believe in the country’s values and the opportunity it offers to people who are willing to work hard. A friend invited me to visit Knoxville, and from the moment I arrived, I fell in love with the city, its people, and its natural beauty.
My journey into massage therapy began with encouragement from friends and family, as well as prior clients who had experienced my natural ability and attention to detail. When I started practicing massage on clients during my training at the Tennessee School of Therapeutic Massage, I realized this was truly my calling. I earned my massage license in 2021, and after gaining experience working for others, I decided to create a space that reflected my vision. That’s when Prestige Massage was born.
From the beginning, my focus has been on individualized, intentional care. My background in fitness and athletic recovery strongly influences my approach. I continued my education with certifications in TMJ massage, spine and lumbar work, and several advanced modalities. My philosophy centers on empathy, client-focused treatment, and combining therapeutic healing with luxury so every client feels cared for and renewed.
Prestige Massage grew quickly thanks to loyal clients, experienced therapists, strong referrals, effective advertising, and a seamless booking system. In just a few years, we’ve earned multiple awards and built a reputation for excellence in Knoxville. I’m proud of the loyal client base we’ve built, the jobs we’ve created, and the elevated experience we offer.
Looking ahead, I plan to open a second Prestige Massage location, expand our services, introduce new advanced modalities, and create signature luxury treatments unique to our brand. I also hope to mentor new therapists, continue hiring exceptional talent, and grow Prestige Massage into Knoxville’s top destination for high-end therapeutic wellness.
What drives me every day is seeing clients leave feeling lighter, renewed, and genuinely cared for. That purpose continues to guide our growth and our future.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t all been smooth, being honest. Moving to a new country, adjusting to a new culture, and trying to build a life and a business at the same time was challenging. In the early days of Prestige Massage, I was managing everything myself—marketing, scheduling, website, customer service, and all business operations—while still giving my best to every client on the table. Finding the right team of therapists who shared my philosophy took time, too.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I provide therapeutic and luxury massages, including Swedish, prenatal, deep tissue, hot stones, aromatherapy, TMJ, spine and lumbar work, and cupping. I customize every session to each client’s needs, blending healing skill with a luxurious, relaxing experience. I’m proud of building a loyal client base, creating jobs for skilled therapists, and bringing high-end wellness to Knoxville—what sets me apart is my attention to detail, athletic and wellness background, and truly personalized care.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
I would say just focus on building genuine connections with clients and colleagues, and always prioritize personalized care. Keep learning and exploring new techniques to grow your skills. Be patient with yourself—success takes time, but passion, consistency, and dedication to helping others will take you far. But it’s worth it in the end.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.prestigemassagetherapy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prestige.massage.knoxville/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091613351610
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PrestigeMassage-Knoxville
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/prestige-massage-knoxville?osq=massage
