Sad that I can't give a better review because the salon is lovely and seems like the people working there are too- I really wanted to love this place; however it was just not the type of manicure experience I prefer, especially for the price point.
I've had TONS of manicures- in and out of the US + I lived in Vegas for years... I've had all types of elite spa manicures and quick fix hole-in-the-wall manicures.
My mistakes for this appointment:
*Booking a couple days before via text- led me to end up with a very inexperienced manicurist.
*Not inquiring about pricing- I expected to simply spend less than $50 for a basic paint manicure (coming in with naked nails), so didn't think much about asking when I booked.
Beautiful salon with coffee/tea and refrigerated beverages available for clients.
I was so excited after arriving I even text my boyfriend to tell him how nice the salon was!
The manicure felt VERY slow with very soft work on my nails and (annoyingly) soft finger/hand massaging... I'm assuming this is partly due to me coming in with naked nails- she was trying to tie up some time maybe?
So I don't mind a nice finger/hand massage- in fact I love it, but it was SO slow and gentle and I didn't request any extra massaging nor was I offered any options for upgrades or even manicure packages and/or pricing.
Before paint (see pictures) she took me to the front for payment- $60 for a completely basic manicure; I almost didn't get any paint since I typically go natural and I wished I hadn't.
I was shocked at $60 but paid of course and tipped $6 on the receipt, mostly due to my shock- I had some cash so would have tipped more had things gotten better.
I've never paid $60 for a basic manicure, not even with gel. Have I paid that in high end hotel spas with amenities and such? Probably, but this was in Sandpoint Idaho, close to the woods I grew up in!!!!
Other things:
*She didn't clean out underneath my nails at all, which I thought was standard for any manicure, nor did she really pull my dead cubicles off and it was already too late when I realized it.
*She tried to be done after two coats but I could see most my nails completely through the polish so had to ask her for another coat.
Overall I didn't really enjoy the manicure, however I didn't hate it either- it just wasn't my speed/vibe personally and unfortunately the experience didn't match my expectations, especially for the cost, at all.
*There should be a basic (reasonable) manicure price available with upgrade options.
I might give Heather's Nail Boutique another try in the future but I'll be more specific on what I'm wanting and such when booking.
I waited two weeks from day of service to post this review (my nails were pretty rough for the duration of my work trip in California) - I was debating on posting at all but I think it's important that, as our little sleepy Idaho towns grow so fast and our options change, people are sharing their experiences with things like going to the salon for a simple manicure. read more