Topic ID 2599
Can you please tell me why we need another nail and beauty salon in Hertford???? I heard yesterday that another one is opening on Bull Plain next to the Stone House, is this so the young 'ladies' of Hertford go well prepared for an evening out socializing, like all well bred ladies do????? is there enough clients to go around the numerous salons?
Reply ID 37530
I think it is an already saturated market. There are numerous beauty salons offering nail services and Fingertips in Fore street specialising in nails!! I would imagine it will be very hard to establish themselves in bull plain. I personally would not set up there as they will become best friends with hertford glass...thanks to the clients fequenting the stone house a weekends!!!!
Reply ID 37671
I totally agree with helpless the market is saturated. I am one of the well bred ladies who likes to be pampered and I would highly recommend Finger tips, the girls are lovely and the atmosphere in the salon is friendly. The standard of work is high and reasonably priced. I think this new salon is going to have a hard time of it - good luck to them- I think they will need it!
Reply ID 37676
Is this going to be where the hairdressers (can't remember the name) used to be? If so I think it's already open....? They have some nice foliage out the front if that helps [:)]
Reply ID 37696
Yes, it is where Masons used to be and they went bust! it's not a very good postion in Hertford, not much passing trade. I agree with helpless, I have heard Fingertips is the best around from friends who use it, I am not a lady who frequents these places, but I do see quite a few appearing, well look at Jades that did not last long, but then I understand that she treated her clients awful, making apoointments and the shop was closed when they arrived, they ended up at Fingertips around the corner.
Reply ID 37705
Nail bars tend to be easier to book into than Beauty Salons. We do have a lot but they, in the main seem to survive. Jade's I think was a slightly different issue. In addition to Fingertips that has been recommended Jenny, next doot in Sun Studio is also very good.
Reply ID 37721
I agree with furrybunny in regards to location, not much passing trade there! Jades salon certainly didnt do itself any favours in regards to customer service! I have used both fingertips and sun studio and have had no problem with the service in either. My personal preference would be fingertips due to atmosphere. The tanning booths in sun studio throw out some real heat and noise, which doesnt help relax me much!! I like a relaxing friendly environment when i treat myself, therefore fingertips wins for me!!
Reply ID 37724
It's not just a nail bar - it's a full beauty therapy service and is called Violet's. It's owned by Carly who used to work at Fingertips. At least she's been properly trained, and, from what I hear, she has a very good head for business. There may not be much passing trade, but it's in a great place to catch the eye of the semi-dressed girlies queuing to get into The Stonehouse. All the choices they have to make, life must be so hard.........
Reply ID 37725
quote:
Originally posted by Fish Wife
It's not just a nail bar - it's a full beauty therapy service and is called Violet's. It's owned by Carly who used to work at Fingertips. At least she's been properly trained, and, from what I hear, she has a very good head for business. There may not be much passing trade, but it's in a great place to catch the eye of the semi-dressed girlies queuing to get into The Stonehouse. All the choices they have to make, life must be so hard......... Good Point
Reply ID 37733
Well, I am sure we all wish her well in her new venture!
Reply ID 37756
Hi Guys, what does anyone think of Fancy Nails (I think that's what its called) near Waitrose - always lots of people in there.
Reply ID 37759
quote:No Comment!!!!!! Never Again. Hassled by Staff as I walked past to book another appointment. Serious looking gear your Dentist would not touch. Messed up Nail Beds. Sorry I did say No Comment!
Originally posted by Maddison3
Hi Guys, what does anyone think of Fancy Nails (I think that's what its called) near Waitrose - always lots of people in there.
Reply ID 37760
And Carly has "done the dirty" on Fingertips and set up in direct competition. She should have had the decency to set up further afield. I will never use the new salon. Fingertips is a lovely place to visit where nothing is too much trouble and where they go the extra mile in customer care.
Reply ID 37773
Please do not use Fancy Nails, my friend has told me that Fingertips have had to cope with the disasters that they have caused, fancy have a drill used on your nails, no way, they should be treated gently, as my friend says jewels not tools!! I also have heard that Carly has phoned Fingertips clients for business, not on, especially when they have trained her and she knows Fingertips business inside and out, by working there, so Carly NO, it's not business like to to do that!
Reply ID 37777
Not only did thet damage my nail beds, they burnt the end of my finger with that evil looking sanding thing.
Reply ID 37784
Thank you for your advice, enough said - won't be using Fancy Nails. Will try Fingertips.
Reply ID 37820
Maddison - advice well taken, i used to get my nails done in a similar establishment in harlow and they wrecked my nails with the drills. Hense me going to Zoe and Louise at fingertips who have both a marverlous job of mending my broken tallons!! It seems a shame that Carly has set up behind Fingertips back. I agree with Furrybunny that is not a nice way to conduct business!
Reply ID 37839
quote:I think that taking inside information from another business and supplying it to another business is illegal. It can attract large financial penalties and I believe prison sentences for company directors!
Originally posted by furrybunny
Please do not use Fancy Nails, my friend has told me that Fingertips have had to cope with the disasters that they have caused, fancy have a drill used on your nails, no way, they should be treated gently, as my friend says jewels not tools!! I also have heard that Carly has phoned Fingertips clients for business, not on, especially when they have trained her and she knows Fingertips business inside and out, by working there, so Carly NO, it's not business like to to do that!
Reply ID 37846
People do get used to one person doing nails, hair, etc. and may follow when they move establishments, a reason for setting up close by. But the poaching of customers is smoething completely different. My Hairdresser is my friend and not working at the moment but if she was and moved salon I would move with her. Of course being a mate that would not be an issue. But it seems none were too keen on Carley so she may not have 'nicked' that many.
Reply ID 37848
Fingertips did a fantastic job on my french pedicure, however the plucking of the hairs from my toes was a little painful![:D]
Reply ID 37858
Victor I think I may have seen you on a sunny day in the co-op...I feel plucking will do no good, I can recommend the waxing services offered in Fingertips!!
Reply ID 37960
Fancy Nails is one of a large franchise owned and run by Vietnamese 'businessmen.' Unfortunately they use the American method of manicure which involves drills and grinders, so they don't get a 'feel' for what they're doing. I have used them and the one in Hoddesdon and ended up with very sore fingers and extremely thin nails which very painful as the nail bed had been burnt. They 'technicians' aren't properly trained and do no training at all in the science and effects of the process, just in how to wield the drill, the anti burn lotion and the glue. Another awkward aspect is that some of them barely speak English which makes it very hard to discuss what you want. The one in Bircherley Green has no ventilation at all and the smell of acetone is so strong you can almost chew it. The last time I used them a customer was making a very loud complaint about the pain and damage to her nails which made it impossible to move her fingers. She had been to Fingertips for a second opinion about what had been done to her. Her nails were so badly damaged they were too raw to soak and get the acrylics off. Never again. Fingertips is OK if overpriced, and there are many salons offering as good a service in town and in Ware. For the record - Carly was trained by Kay at Fingertips, and poaching, whilst an unacceptable practise, isn't unknown in the world of 'boooty.'
Reply ID 37964
quote:My sentiments exactly. I have one knackered nail bed - the rest were saved thankfully. And it is nice to have a chat whilst you endure the process. Very difficult in there. Hassled whilst walking past - Apologies for saying it again but NO
Originally posted by Fish Wife
Fancy Nails is one of a large franchise owned and run by Vietnamese 'businessmen.' Unfortunately they use the American method of manicure which involves drills and grinders, so they don't get a 'feel' for what they're doing. I have used them and the one in Hoddesdon and ended up with very sore fingers and extremely thin nails which very painful as the nail bed had been burnt. They 'technicians' aren't properly trained and do no training at all in the science and effects of the process, just in how to wield the drill, the anti burn lotion and the glue. Another awkward aspect is that some of them barely speak English which makes it very hard to discuss what you want. The one in Bircherley Green has no ventilation at all and the smell of acetone is so strong you can almost chew it. The last time I used them a customer was making a very loud complaint about the pain and damage to her nails which made it impossible to move her fingers. She had been to Fingertips for a second opinion about what had been done to her. Her nails were so badly damaged they were too raw to soak and get the acrylics off. Never again. Fingertips is OK if overpriced, and there are many salons offering as good a service in town and in Ware. For the record - Carly was trained by Kay at Fingertips, and poaching, whilst an unacceptable practise, isn't unknown in the world of 'boooty.'
Reply ID 37998
I agree..JUST SAY NO!!! (just like grange hill kids said!!) I actually would rather pay a little more for great customer service. I have actually treated myself there this very morning, and again excellent results! In regards to cost I was unaware that they do a great current offer on mondays and tuesdays for waxing etc. What u may spend on nails you can save 50% on other treatments! A bargain in my eyes!
Reply ID 38147
Normally an employee would have a contract stating they can not set up in the same area or can not poach customers for at least 6,12, or 18months after leaving, I know I had this contract when I worked in recruitment years ago, would of thought this was common practice, especially in beauty/hair industry, maybe Carly had one and the time has lapsed, or Fingertips did not do this sort of contract. I do not know this women and have only visited Fingertips once as I have someone come to the house normally so this is only a personal observation based on previous threads.
Reply ID 38168
quote:I could be wrong, but I thought these types of future restrictions in contracts were illegal, or at least they've never gone to court as no employer wants them declared as such (like the situation with banks and their charges).
Originally posted by shopgirl
Normally an employee would have a contract stating they can not set up in the same area or can not poach customers for at least 6,12, or 18months after leaving, I know I had this contract when I worked in recruitment years ago...
Reply ID 38170
quote:I'm not sure they are illegal, but they are certainly unenforceable.
Originally posted by newcomerquote:I could be wrong, but I thought these types of future restrictions in contracts were illegal
Originally posted by shopgirl
Normally an employee would have a contract stating they can not set up in the same area or can not poach customers for at least 6,12, or 18months after leaving, I know I had this contract when I worked in recruitment years ago...
Reply ID 38231
I treated Mother to a treatment there and she was most unimpressed when her nails looked as if they were about to fall off. She was having great difficulty later trying to peel avocados for our salad dinner. I think she'll settle for a quick self manicure at home watching the football results on Saturday evening prior to going to see her sister Violet.
Reply ID 38237
I don't see why an employee shouldn't set up in competition - after all, folks will vote with their feet and/or their wallet. If Carly is popular she will do well and that might force Fingertips to up the ante. That's a good thing for customers, surely? I had a manicure at Violet's last week because I always used to prefer having my nails done by Carly when she was at Fingertips. I love the decor - it makes me feel glam just sitting there! And it doesn't have the overpowering smell of acetone (I think that's what it is?) that Fingertips has. Violet's also has a treatment room downstairs, and I've just discovered that Carly does eyebrow threading too. That'll save me a trip to Hoddesdon every month or so. I think Joby is right about the unenforceable clause in contracts about setting up in competition - it's something to do with the fact that you cannot deny a person their right to make a living. Isn't this why many companies put departing employees who pose a competitive threat on "garden leave"?
Reply ID 38806
I stand corrected, I am talking years ago now (not revealing my age of course!!), I am not upto date with correct employment laws etc so didn't realise that after leaving you could just set up where ever you so wished and begin trading etc.
Reply ID 38811
quote:I knew there was a treatment room but had no idea she did threading too, so I think I shall be investigating her prices and going there instead of Hoddesdon. Nothing at all against the treatment at Hoddesdon, it's just a drag after working there all day long, to have to go back in the evening to get threaded. [:)]
Originally posted by nora batty Violet's also has a treatment room downstairs, and I've just discovered that Carly does eyebrow threading too. That'll save me a trip to Hoddesdon every month or so.
Reply ID 38812
quote:Please enlighten me - is threading where they use something similar to dental floss to remove unwanted hairy stuff? If it is I had it done in Egypt and it was great.
Originally posted by Fish Wifequote:I knew there was a treatment room but had no idea she did threading too, so I think I shall be investigating her prices and going there instead of Hoddesdon. Nothing at all against the treatment at Hoddesdon, it's just a drag after working there all day long, to have to go back in the evening to get threaded. [:)]
Originally posted by nora batty Violet's also has a treatment room downstairs, and I've just discovered that Carly does eyebrow threading too. That'll save me a trip to Hoddesdon every month or so.
Reply ID 38896
quote:It's a fine silk (?) thread that is used looped and twisted between both hands and the tension is applied by another bit held in the mouth - by the threader, not the threadee. It's very quick, a bit stingy sometimes and gives a beautiful clean and smooth finish. Regrowth is very fine. Great for eyebrows although I do know a couple of girlies that have all sorts of nooks and crannies attended to. There even a few burly boys that have the back, sack and crack treatment but I bet it makes their eyes water! [;)]
Originally posted by Tiggerquote:Please enlighten me - is threading where they use something similar to dental floss to remove unwanted hairy stuff? If it is I had it done in Egypt and it was great.
Originally posted by Fish Wifequote:I knew there was a treatment room but had no idea she did threading too, so I think I shall be investigating her prices and going there instead of Hoddesdon. Nothing at all against the treatment at Hoddesdon, it's just a drag after working there all day long, to have to go back in the evening to get threaded. [:)]
Originally posted by nora batty Violet's also has a treatment room downstairs, and I've just discovered that Carly does eyebrow threading too. That'll save me a trip to Hoddesdon every month or so.
Reply ID 38898
Offered Mr T a go, declined my kind offer. I'll just keep to the visible bits!
Reply ID 39394
quote:Calm Mr T's fears and assure him you won't really use that greasy piece of coarse hairy string! In the course of a much needed cheer-me-up yesterday, I went to Violet's - threaded and manicured and I have to say the service was excellent, the surroundings are just so relaxing and luxurious and the prices were really, really good. [8D]
Originally posted by Tigger
Offered Mr T a go, declined my kind offer. I'll just keep to the visible bits!
Reply ID 39426
I do like the idea of the Pedicure with the massage chair. Anyone tried it yet?
Reply ID 39470
quote:Now THAT looks like a serious piece of equipment. I was introduced to it on my tour of the premises but I wasn't wearing my co-ordinated feet plus one leg was a bit shorter than the other when I went in, so I gave it a miss this time round. I really like the idea - a bit like the massaging chairs in Tony & Guy, only this time with your feet in a bowl of water instead of your head over one.
Originally posted by Tigger
I do like the idea of the Pedicure with the massage chair. Anyone tried it yet?
Reply ID 39474
Headlines also have massage chairs, trouble is I fall asleep when I am having my hair washed, very relaxing!!!
Reply ID 39493
quote:have to be careful though they can make you feel sick! Looks like the grand opening of the new extended premises is beg June.
Originally posted by furrybunny
Headlines also have massage chairs, trouble is I fall asleep when I am having my hair washed, very relaxing!!!
Reply ID 39495
Yes, Marilyn it's going to look good!
Reply ID 40049
How much is the threading?
Reply ID 40060
quote:Very good prices and far cheaper than where I was previously going. Eyebrows and top lip £12 - a saving of £8! Didn't get quote for chest and back.
Originally posted by gregb
How much is the threading?
Reply ID 40065
It was a tad uncomfortable! Worse than when I had it previously but I do like the results. After all it doesn't last for long.
Reply ID 40079
The pain or the re-growth???
Reply ID 42009
Used to go to Fingertips but now visit Violets regularly and have to say that Carly has really gone that extra mile to make the whole experience really luxurious and relaxing. The attention to detail is brilliant (eg.turning the small, underground outside area which can be seen through the window downstairs, into a gorgeous Japanese garden.) Carly and her staff are friendly and professional and I would highly recommend them to anyone wanting something 'classier'. They have a Pedicure Throne - a huge heated chair that massages you for an hour, while you have a foot massage and pedicure, costs 25 and is amazing!
Reply ID 42165
E£xcellent service and value for money, plus the opportunity of a nice chat with Carly's Mum. Mr Fish had overlays today! All that deep sea stuff plays havoc with the cuticles. [8D]
Reply ID 42175
Have to agree - Fingertips is very ordinary compared to Violets - Carly is on to a winning streak - good luck to her.
Reply ID 42179
quote:My feet are converted! Wow. I felt like I was walking on air, the foot spa, wonderful massage, brilliant pedicure. Best £23 quid I've spent, I'm sure my tootsies will keep steering in that direction on my way into Town. - Thanks for the tip and to FW too, who I think first mentioned it.
Originally posted by chickpea
Used to go to Fingertips but now visit Violets regularly and have to say that Carly has really gone that extra mile to make the whole experience really luxurious and relaxing. The attention to detail is brilliant (eg.turning the small, underground outside area which can be seen through the window downstairs, into a gorgeous Japanese garden.) Carly and her staff are friendly and professional and I would highly recommend them to anyone wanting something 'classier'. They have a Pedicure Throne - a huge heated chair that massages you for an hour, while you have a foot massage and pedicure, costs 25 and is amazing!
Reply ID 42475
Glad to have been of service!
Reply ID 42481
I am just about to have a manicure in Violets, reason I have "defected" from Fingertips is that I don't like nail technicians eating a pasty from Greggs on the area you are going to do my nails and got fed up with always getting the junior who wasn't paying my nails enough attention over her mobile phone or other idle gossip! Sorry its not a sin, but its a salon where hygiene has to be paramount and I am going to give Violets a go.. They are also slightly cheaper and the decor looks fantastic and as a customer I am paying for good service. I have no objection to competition, its good for us customers and remember we do have a choice.. I will report back my findings.. I am looking forward to it all
Reply ID 42703
Had a manicure, the normal sort and it was fantastic. All the staff are in a black tunic uniform, so very smart, the way I was treated and the fact that there is a separate lady acting as a receptionist/cashier helps to allow the manicurist, Carly, to do my nails. I've booked another one... I hate to say it, but the experience was very good, clean, professional and that's a step forward.. well done Violet's!
Reply ID 42724
Drama Queen have you shares in this place?? you seem to be over doing it a bit!
Reply ID 42726
I think DQ was just giving an opinion. I am certainly sold on Violets and will be visiting next week for a total pamper. It is an enjoyable experience not a chore as it sometimes is getting your nails re-done etc. (Hope Mr T doesn't read this, he doesn't know yet!)
Reply ID 42735
I have posted before that and out of principle I will never use Violets regardless of how good it is. The proprietress abused friendship and allegedly stole clients from Fingertips, setting up within spitting distance. Maybe all is fair in love and war (and business apparently) but loyalty is more important than making a fast buck by damaging the business of a trusted friend. Incidently, I bought a friend a treatment at Fingertips which she apparently really liked and enjoyed. She has vociferously defected to Violets which I find mildly insulting..... Fingertips might like to learn a few tips (pardon the pun) from this forum about customer satisfaction and I hope they read it. If I had betrayed them in the way Violets has, I would be ashamed to hold my head up in the town.
Reply ID 42788
I have used Violet's on a number of occasions now, as recently as last Saturday and can only speak very highly of the service and friendly atmosphere. I had previously used Fingertips in the days when Kay owned the shop and the service then was always good and professional. I can't comment on what it has been like since Kay sold the business. In defence of Carly it is necessary to state that she was trained by Kay, not the present owner of Fingertips. People will vote with their purses and wallets, and if Carly is providing as good, if not better service at a competitive price, then good luck to her.
Reply ID 42803
Dear Dytter It is I you are referring to.. I was extremely pleased with my Fingertips gift but was very impressed with Carly who used to work on my nails after my initial treatment. Why is she not allowed to own her own salon??? Clients will follow their favourite manicurist/hairdresser/leg waxer regardless of the salon they used. If you like the way someone looks after you, and you usually pay a large sum of money for the treatments, why shouldn't you? I didn't go to Violets straight away, using Fingertips as I have on several occasions over the past 10-15 years, but, I wasn't impressed with the way I felt the place was being run (sorry I don't want someone eating a pasty at the manicure desk I am having my nails looked after on and why should I?) so I decided, as is my choice, to try my former nail technician's new place and was very impressed. Equally, if ever that changed, I would seek out another salon, as a client I can.. You have made it sound as if I have insulted you.. not the case, but like you changed your hairdressing salon when your stylist changed (Vogue to Headlines) I too can change my choice of manicurist...
Reply ID 46765
I know this topic has been dormant for a while but can't we live and let live. Surely the whole point of any business is you train, work and if you want aspire to your own Business. I would not want someone just out of College wielding their scissors at my head, attacking my nails or any other bits of me. If you don't work from the bottom then IMHO you C*** up at the top. Where do the best Chef's start. If it was just handed on a plate the silver spoon critisism would be made. Great job being very professionally done Customers are treated personally - they even know what colours you have had (and I'm going through a lot. I can't see any reason it would go pear shaped but at least she had the bottle to do it if it did. No I don't get anything out of this, but they do have a new loyalty card. If you are a regular get you Crimble and New Year Appointments in quick - I hate booking in advance but made sure I had mine organised. (Opps. Just blabbed to Mr T) Never yet spotted the Musician with the special Thumb Nail [;)]