I was anxious to try Nails by Helly because many of the reviews were so positive and it was relatively close to my home. However, I was extremely disappointed.
Although I had an appointment for a full set and brow wax, I waited 30 mins as they were "running behind". My appointment was to be with Helly but I was seated elsewhere for another tech to put the tips on. I noticed after leaving the salon that a couple of the tips were put on crooked. *Note-to-self: do not try to relax and enjoy the break from your busing schedule while getting your nails done but hover, to make sure your nails are glued on straight!
I was finally placed at Helly's station, and she started my nails. The salon was loud and Helly was answering the phone constantly and was also distracted by her teenage daughter. Phone calls would come in and she would try and get her daughter to help her book new appointments. She would call out to her in a loud voice trying to get her attention to come help. At times, the girl would be sitting right next to Helly playing on her phone and mom would prompt her to put the phone down and help make appointments. The young girl was sassy at times with her mom and it was annoying. This made me feel like I was just another money appointment in the chair which did not lead to a pleasant experience.
I had taken a bottle of regular nail polish in with me and wanted them to match it in a gel color. It was 'Ballet Slippers', a color that is common and recognized by most nail techs. The color she chose to use was not close at all, but she kept saying "it matches perfectly" although I tried to tell her otherwise.
At this point I knew there was no sense trying to give constructive criticism in any way because it would not be accepted. With all the distractions and uneasiness to this visit I just wanted to get out of there.
When I went to pay, I had big-time sticker shock, $82 and that was without a tip! I asked why it was so much for a full set and brow wax and if she could show me the break down. She simply re-added on her calculator (behind the counter) and told me it was $82. No other explanation was given. All I know is that nail sets are listed on the wall as $45 (brow cost not listed) and how she ended up with $82 is beyond me.
In the end my nails looked 'ok' but nothing special. She did do a good job on my brow wax and I truly wish I had more good things to say about this salon and my experience there but I do not. read more