Pampering those nails
by Serene Lim, 1 August 2003

Picture this: You've got on that lovely wedding dress. You complete that ensemble with a pair of stunning earrings and a necklace to match. As you spritz on your favourite perfume and take one last look at the mirror before heading out, you realise that your hands look all wrinkly. A fingernail then catches the netting of your veil. There goes your perfect day.

Now, before you start the "I'm-gonna-snip-my-nails-to-nothingness-because-they're-so-irritating" drill, realise that help is available. Just like your physical self needs time off and vacations to unwind, your hands (and feet) deserve some regal treatment of their own. Such can be sought at Nail Arts by Serene - where your hands and feet get rejuvenated.

The ambience
A relaxing ambience should be part of every manicure/pedicure experience. Just imagine yourself with your tired feet in a foot spa, listening to the sounds of waves crashing and taking in the scents of aromatic oils. Nail Arts by Serene provides all that, as well as curtain-parted privacy.

"Unlike places that use a Zen-like theme, our shop uses muted colours that are easy on the eyes," says Serene Teh, owner of the shop. The shop's unique selling point would definitely have to be the ergonomic chair sets they use. Each set consists of a seat with a headrest and lumbar support, as well as a footrest, which can be raised or lowered according to customer preference.

The services
Aside from offering the norm of manicure and pedicure treatments, the shop also caters to would-be brides, who are most welcomed to book the place for an afternoon with girl friends.

Nail Arts by Serene will provide some serious hands-and-feet pampering, as well as bring in some delicious refreshments to complete the party. Customers can choose from a variety of combination treatments, including special hand and/or foot spa packages. As the name of the shop suggests, Nail Arts by Serene also specialises in nail art. Prices vary, of course, according to the sort of art, or gemstone creation on each nail.

How much?
Standard manicures cost $20, and pedicures are $30 per treatment. Packaged deals are available, where a one-time payment covers a certain number of visits. You can enjoy extra treatments by topping up the amount you paid for your standard visit. Prices for nail art range from $2 to $3 per nail, and $1 per piece of crystal (one of the many types of gemstones used).

Nail Arts by Serene is, as owner Serene Teh puts it, "not just about sitting down and getting your nails done. It's also about being pampered and feeling relaxed that makes up the whole experience."

The staff is trained, friendly and eloquent, often engaging their clients in conversation while treating their tired limbs. They aim to please - this means they will make sure you are thoroughly satisfied with their work before they end their session.

Nail Arts by Serene is located at #01-16 Shaw Towers, 100 Beach Road, Singapore 189702. Treatments are strictly by advanced booking only. To make an appointment, please call 6296 0751 or 6296 7048. You may also check out their website at www.nailartsbyserene.com.

The shop's opening hours are from 11am to 8pm.

Current promotion:

• Classic Manicure & Classic Pedicure at $38 (shaping of nails, trimming of cuticles, buffing, massage and followed by a polish)
• Nail Extension at $68. Get your nail lengthen for that special day or photo shoot. Full set of acrylic extension.
• Please mention SingaporeBrides Nail Arts promotion when making your appointment.