Since I moved to the area last summer, I've been looking for a new nail salon and I haven't been impressed with any I have visited so far, that is until today. I took a chance on Charming Nails based on the positive Yelp reviews and I'm glad I did. I never would have found this place on my own. It is in the Giant shopping center on DeKalb Pike, tucked into the far back corner so you cannot see it when you drive by.
Here is a recap of my experience today:
---Very clean and nicely designed nail salon with 7 pedicure and 11 manicure stations (yes, I counted! LOL). It was busy today being a Saturday with gorgeous weather, but I didn't see anyone waiting for service. They took me right away.
---There were many nail polishes to choose from and it looks like they have personal nail tool boxes for frequent customers.
---All chairs are leather and very comfortable. I really liked the design of the pedicure soaking bowls....they are a cool, orange-colored glass. And I was happy that the massaging feature on the chair actually worked. I've been to so many salons when that doesn't work and it ruins the experience.
---Since it was my first time here, I was happy to learn that a basic pedicure includes a 10 minute leg and feet massage, first with lotion and then with hot stones followed by hot towels. I liked that the leg massage was gentle and soothing. I've had leg massages during pedicures that are very aggressive and hurt my shins. The woman sitting next to me fell asleep because she was so relaxed and they had to wake her up at the end of her session. That's a sign of a great pedicure!
---Before painting my toes, the nail tech removed the lotion from my nails with nail polish remover which is the correct thing to do. I've had experiences where your nails get sprayed with water which doesn't completely remove the lotion which then leads to chips. Also, she was very meticulous in painting my nails, making sure all sides were covered.
---At the drying station, you receive a neck and shoulder hot stone massage which I think was about 3 minutes. I would have paid for 15 minutes more, but I wasn't sure if it was an option since I didn't see any pricing posted.
---Credit cards are accepted and there is an ATM.
---Minimal talking between the techs which I liked. It was pretty quiet in there so it was easy to relax.
---No upselling which was nice, but I would have liked to see a list of services especially since I would have paid for a longer massage.
---The basic pedicure costs $35 which was totally worth it in my opinion.
---The only issue I had today actually had nothing to do with the salon. There were two friends getting pedicures who chatted the entire time about personal issues and then I had to sit with them at the drying station and hear it all again. Foul language, cheating & lying boyfriends, etc. Way too much info that no one wanted to hear. I was sooooo close to telling them to shut up. Finally after a few stares from myself and another woman, they left the drying station.
Overall, I had a great experience at Charming Nails and I will be back for sure! read more
