Lovely Nails: Salon Service with an Inviting Atmosphere

When a close friend and mentor of Charlie Ngo was ready for retirement, he offered him the business opportunity to become owner of .

Since December 2008, Ngo has owned and operated this neighborhood salon, offering professional services including nails, waxing and facials, with a friendly and inviting atmosphere. A graduate of University of South Florida, Ngo worked as a chemist for Orly Cosmetics, a role which helped him make a natural transition to his business today.

Ngo recently sat down with Patch to discuss what's kept him successful as a business owner.

Patch: Why did you choose this location for Lovely Nails?

Ngo: I love this area; it offers a great family lifestyle.  I live within five minutes driving distance of my work. Most importantly, it conveniently located in the same shopping center with Publix and some great restaurants, so I feel this is a great location with a lot of potential.  

Patch: What is your typical day like?

Ngo: It varies, depending upon the day of the week. Typically, I’m a little bit busier during weekend, so that can affect my routine. In general, I bring in clean linens and towels that will be using thoughout the day. Next, I brew my coffee, and cut out the day's workload for my staff based on bookings. I then return all my voicemails and email inquiries from customers. With all of that out of the way, it’s time for the “Morning Dance,” my fancy term for my method of floor mopping where I stand on the rags and start “dancing” though out the salon with a bottle of cleaner to make sure every single inch is properly cleaned! When it comes to floor cleaning, nothing beats that good old fashion way.

Patch: What are the nail trends that you see as being most popular in Westchase?

Ngo: I would have to say definitely “Gel Colors” which goes on like polishes and it got a nice long lasting finishes. I’ve seen a lot of people who used to wear acrylic for years now converting to Gel colors because it’s nice and not as damaging as acrylic since there is no “drilling” involved. “French” manicure with Gel colors is also available. Shellac is one of the gel colors brand we carried. Beside Shellac, we do have Gelish and OPI gel colors 2nd generation available upon request.  For OPI fans, we are exciting to inform you that OPI Gel Colors 2nd Generation has finally arrived to our salon!

Patch: What are some new treatments that you are excited about offering at Lovely Nails? 

Ngo: While shellac is very popular, certified organic cosmetics are also creating a lot of buzz. We offer a spa scrub using Dead Sea salts and Moroccan Argan Oils in every Lovely Spa Pedicure service. These give your feet the ultimate luxurious pampering experience.

For a limited time, we are currently offering our "Lovely Facial" at $60. reg. Included in this is $75 worth of microderm abrasion session using state of the art “Diamond Wand” Microderm machine.

Patch: What's the most fun part of your job?

Ngo: Charming my customers. I have a great time with them, and I’m pretty sure my customers would say the same.  

Patch: What's your busiest day of the week?

Ngo: Friday and Saturday.

Find Lovely Nails online at  www.lovelydayspa.com or visit their Facebook page. Their hours of operation are Monday through Saturday 9a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday 11a.m.-6p.m.