By CRYSTAL SCHELLE
MARTINSBURG – I’m notorious for not taking the time for a little self-pampering.
That’s why on a recent summer day I decided that my haggard nails needed some TLC. I decided to head over to Q-Nails & Spa in Martinsburg.
Located next to Boost Mobile on Foxcroft Avenue, there was more than ample parking. I was warmly greeted by the front desk receptionist who directed me to Donna Duangdara, the store manager.
What impressed me the most was not only the friendly greeting, but how the space felt – bright, light and welcoming. Behind the front desk are two curved countertops for those wanting to get their nails done. Further back in the space are a row of large chairs on each wall for those looking for a pedicure.
And I couldn’t help but notice the two beautiful chandeliers glistening in the afternoon sun. It told me that I was there to be pampered.
It has been years since I took the time to get my nails done. So, when Donna asked me if I wanted tips, I excitedly said yes. I always thought tips looked classy, and it had been more than 10 years since I even had a set on my fingers.
After looking through several books of colors for my nails, I decided on a nice pale pink. It felt summery and reminded me of cotton candy. Donna said when it comes to colors it varies in what’s popular. Some like the bright colors but ombre is popular right now.
When I chose my color, Donna recommended using Dipping Powder to do my nails. It was a first for me, but I liked the benefits of it. Dipping Powder is lightweight and durable, and I especially liked that the process would be odor free. I also liked that it promised to maintain strong nails as well as contains vitamin E and calcium.
While Donna started to prepare my hands for the manicure, I noticed that it was busy for a Thursday afternoon. I liked the energy in the room as people chatted while their feet soaked or picked out the color for their own nails.
Donna came to the area by way of California, then Arkansas – which she considers home – before she and moved to Winchester, Va., to be with her fiancé.
With more than a decade under her belt for working in a salon, it showed. She was gentle with my hands and gauged my talkativeness to keep me engaged while she worked on my nails.
But she wasn’t only doing my nails, she was also balancing being a manger. She warned me that she’d be glancing around. She wanted to make sure her employees had everything they needed. I didn’t mind at all because I was impressed that she made sure to be an effective leader. Plus, I was enjoying the process and I was also people watching.
What I really liked was the process of using the Dipping Powder. After she attached my tips, then cut and filed them down to the length I was looking for (I do have to type), she opened a small jar that look like glitter powder.
With what looked like a clear coat of polish, she would dip my nail into jar and then gently knock off the powder. She did this nail by nail. Then repeated. I was excited as I saw the color come to life on my nails. It was even more beautiful than I ever imagined!
After putting them under the light to dry and a little buff, I was finished. What I immediately noticed was how light they were. The last time I had my nails done it was in acrylics and later gel polish. These didn’t seem as heavy.
It was such a nice experience that I was disappointed I didn’t also decide to do my toenails as well. The Dipping Powder full set costs $40 or $45 with tips and those wanting the popular ombre cost is $55.
I saw on their menu of services, I could get a regular manicure, or with gel polish as well as the option of acrylic. The pedicure spa packages included regular, VIP spa pedicure or Super VIP Volcano pedicure, which range in price from $28 to $60.
I made a promise to myself that I’d make a habit out of treating myself more. And better yet? I’m going to make sure that I do a mani-pedi day.
And as I walked out into the summer sun, I looked down at my nails and couldn’t help but smile. A little pampering goes a long way.
INFO BOX;
Q Nails & Spa
886 Foxcroft Ave, Suite 103
Martinsburg
304-707-9999
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/qnailsmartinsburgwv/
Website: https://website-5978414656431915028194-nailsalon.business.site
