O.M.G. Salon Moments

Have you ever seen the Sex and the City episode called "The Caste System?"  It's the one where Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha and Miranda are getting pedicures together and think their pedicurists are talking about them in another language.  I've often thought that, but it never really bothered me.  Well, this weekend when I was getting my weekly mani/pedi with one of my girlfriends a few beyond wrong things happened.  So much for salon etiquette! 

First, as I was enjoying my extra ten minute foot massage during my pedi, I realized that the woman next to me had incredibly long toe nails that went way past the skin of her toes.  I'm talking at least an inch past!  Other people in the salon noticed too and we were all exchanging glances with wide eyes.  I know it's just beginning to be sandal weather, but who lets their toe nails grow to that extent?  How did this woman even wear shoes?

Then, in the middle of the salon in front of the window looking out to 3rd Ave. a very overweight, older woman was plopped face down into one of those massage chairs with her shirt over her head.  Yes, her shirt was up and her bra was her only form of coverage.  She was all lathered up, glistening in oil and was being groped and massaged right there for all to see for a good ten minutes. Once again, looks of horror were being exchanged from the manicure stations to the pedicure chairs.

As we were drying another customer summed up our experience by saying to my friend and I, "I'm glad I ate before coming to get my nails done." 

Recessionista Primping

Regardless of the recession hair must be cut, nails must be polished, and brows have to be maintained. Let's face it, certain things are worth spending on to keep us the pretty ladies we are. I've discovered some budget friendly beauty breaks that will help:

• Get your mani/pedi on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. Most salons run combo specials in the beginning of the week and you can save anywhere from $10-15. If you don't see a sign up, inquire with your manicurist.
• Skip those pricey $200 cuts and try scheduling an appointment at salon training schools. My best friend goes to the Aveda Institute in NYC and gets hers for $18. Click here to see a list of training schools in your area.
• Don't splurge on your favorite perfume. Visit a Sephora. The product consultants will place any perfume you'd like in a spray tester for free and there's no limit to how many samples you can have.
• Try threading your brows instead of waxing. Threading is an average of $2 cheaper and normally lasts a few days longer.
• Watch your tipping. Know how much you're going to be paying and try to figure out your tip before you're put on the spot while paying at the end of your services. The added pressure sometimes makes people throw extra money.

Do you have any extra tips to share?