First salon nail appointment? Welcome. Knowing what happens (and what to ask) turns a slightly nerve-wracking first visit into the relaxing hour it's supposed to be. Here's a walkthrough of a typical first appointment with us.

Before you arrive

  • Book the service closest to what you want — you can adjust the plan at your consultation, but timing is booked by service.
  • Arrive with bare nails if you can, or book removal if you're wearing product from another salon (we need to see your natural nails to advise you properly, and removal takes time).
  • Bring inspo photos if you have a design in mind, and think about your week: typing, workouts, kids, gloves at work. Your lifestyle picks the right length more than fashion does.
  • Tell us about allergies, sensitivities, or nail damage when you book, not in the chair.

Your consultation (the most important five minutes)

We look at your natural nails, ask what you do with your hands, and talk through length, shape, and product honestly — including if what you booked isn't what we'd recommend. If your nails need a strengthening plan before extensions, we'll say so and explain why. No upsell script, just the plan that gets you the result in your photo.

Sanitation: what you should see

Metal tools should be cleaned and disinfected between clients (ask how), files and buffers are single-use or yours alone, and pedicure tubs are cleaned and disinfected between clients. This is standard practice in a well-run salon. Feel free to ask us about any of it.

During your service

Speak up — if you want shorter, rounder, or less art, the time to say it is when the first nail is shaped, not the tenth. Check the shape against your own hand (hands look different flat on the table). For pedicures, tell us about pressure and sensitivity early; relaxation is the entire point.

Aftercare and rebooking

Before you leave, we'll tell you exactly how to care for your set (our aftercare guides on this site cover it in writing), and most clients rebook their fill on the spot — prime times go first. Take a photo of your set in natural light outside. It's the best record of your colour and shape for next time.

A note on tipping and timing

Tipping is customary for nail services in Canada and always appreciated, never awkward to ask about. And if you're running late, call us — we'd rather rebook you properly than rush a set that has to last three weeks.