Kingsbridge Nail Salon Offer Spa Experience Never Seen in the Neighborhood
Walls were uniquely designed with brush paint-drips, inspired in the name of the business. (Photo credit: Perla Tolentino)
By Allen Mena & Perla Tolentino
“Their design called my attention as I was passing by. It looks different than anything I've seen in this neighborhood,” said Johana Brea, a Bronx resident who works in Carman Hall, of Nail Drip, a Dominican family-owned nail salon that opened about three months ago on Kingsbridge Road. “It looks high-class, not something common around here; it’s interesting to see new things are coming to the Bronx,” she added.
Located on 61 East Kingsbridge Road, within Lehman’s vicinity, the salon offers spa-like services and an aesthetic room for waxing and other eyebrow embellishment services.
“This nail salon creates more jobs for young people in the area and the salon inspires young people to open up their own businesses,” said the salon’s owner and Bronx resident, Damaris Marcelino. “I believe that through effort and work everything is possible, even running a business like ours. I always think about the future in difficult moments.”
Lehman students also think highly of this new salon’s offerings.
Natalie Ramos, a 20-year-old Lehman psychology major who is also a fan of nail art said, “It’s different, fancy and pampering; they seem more clean, trustworthy and dedicated to their clients.”
“In my opinion this is wonderful: a new nail-spa that is innovative and implements new techniques that we have never experienced here in our neighborhood, said Diana Hernandez, 37, a sociology major and Lehman sophomore. “This is a refreshing new start for a business.”
“I find it very nice to see this kind of concept in the Bronx. I enjoy this new surge in customer service; especially because people think negatively about Bronxites. This shows that we can get quality service without having to go to Manhattan,” said Unequa Figueroa, a 26-year-old philosophy major and Lehman senior.
Beyond design and hard work, product quality also forms part of the salon’s mission.
“Our wax soothes the skin, preventing irritation, and it’s such a soft product that it peels-off itself. We can take it off with our hands. This makes us unique because not many places use it,” said Cristal Pena, wife of the owner and co-manager of the salon. “Our spa pedicure gel is made out of fruits and flower petals that help reduce foot odor and sweat.”
“I have been working with very high-end esthetics businesses since 2011, and what I really like about Nail Drip is that it feels like family. We are trying to bring high-end services to an area where people don’t visualize it as possible,” said Chrisal Martinez, 26, who works as the salon’s cosmetology specialist in charge of body waxing, keratin lash boosting and lifting, and eyebrow shaping.
Wine offered to clients is one of the “spa-like” aspects of the salon; the wooden sliding-door in thebackground leads to the esthetics room. Damaris Marcelino, mother of the owner, handing wine to the client. (Photo Credit: Hector Bello)
Martinez, who holds a New York State cosmetology license, confirmed that facial services will be offered in 2020. The salon also plans to be the first in the area to digitize their services.
“We are preparing to make a difference in the nail salon industry,” explained Joel Marcelino, a digital design graduate of Westchester College and the younger son in the family who oversees the salon’s marketing. “We plan to launch an interactive website where customers can try on nail polishes and designs. When the customer makes a selection, their color choice will be sent to a technician who will assist them based on their needs.”
“I gave up a franchise to come help my family with the business. We want to bring relaxation to the community and drive off the attention from crimes and alcoholism. I dream to teach the importance of the economy to young people, to help them understand that a nine to five job won’t always be the dream career.”
Andrea Valles, a 30-year-old employee, complimented the store’s cleanliness and perks. “Hygiene is key here; this is one of the most comfortable places I’ve worked in. The service is excellent. We always offer our customers coffee, wine, water, and the best part is that it doesn’t come from your budget.”
Shanae Casson, a 35-year-old Bronx resident, agreed. “I’ve been to all nail places in the neighborhood, but most are dirty and the staff is rude. At Nail Drip they always welcome me with a smile, and talk to me while doing my nails instead of rushing me out. I’m always served coffee, wine, juice or water. Their work is great and the prices all wonderful. I would always come here.”
