| rev:text
| - On one hand, Teres is gorgeously set up, very clean, and gives you a very upscale first impression... I would go so far as to say that its vibe is the nicest spot for nails in Old Town without going to a hotel/resort and certainly should appeal to that whole bridal party/birthday demographic. I also respect the fact that they do something a little different and have all sorts of unique options available for you.
On the other hand... it also makes me feel cheap. In order to get a solid pedicure I have to ramp up the basic option by piling on extras via the ala carte "bar tab". We aren't talking Patties dive bar tab style, no we're talking drinks-at-the-pool-at-the-W bar tab price point. Not to say the drinks at the W aren't worth every penny or that I actually enjoy Patties (where dreams go to die, but that is a whole different story). Im just saying how do I end up spending 50 bucks a pop and not even get a real foot massage with my somewhat decent polish job? In fact I've also felt rushed out the door almost every time, and since there isn't a dryer of any sort for the pedicure crew, it always makes for some cringeworthy touch and go moments. Which then leads me down the inevitable road... why did I just spend $50 dollars to feel pressured, rushed, nervous, anxious, and lastly like my money doesn't spend the same.
Case in point, the first time I came in I did not get offered this little survey card thingy. I didn't know I was missing out until another afternoon Friday treat, I brought a friend for her first time and on the way out she got offered some future discount if she filled it out. I immediately asked for one, not for the 5 dollars off or whatever incentive it was... If the 5 dollars mattered that much I shouldn't be getting a pedicure in the first place, but because I genuinely wanted to comment on a few things in the spirit of fairness. I got told only first time clients get them. I re-clarified, you can keep the discount I just want to share some feedback. No dice, sorrrrrry. well huh.
Here is what I would have said (verbatim what I typed into my iphone notes while I was getting the pedi I might add):
Great job bringing a fun spot like this to the area, it's needed. A couple things I've noticed having been here a few times: some of the nail techs can be a bit uptight or seem like they are in an argument with each other and as I have gotten this vibe on every visit it would seem its not just one off day (it has also spilled onto trying to have a pleasant conversation with whomever I'm with), I would recommended having a dryer of some sort or an area for people to relax and let their feet dry... especially if you guys are busy and you need them out of their seat immediately but they aren't dry or their friends aren't done, and lastly I am coming here to treat myself and relax and with the level of the establishment you are going for... having to ask if there are any options for refreshment (sometimes repeatedly) makes me already feel like I'm imposing. All that being said, thank you for your hard work & creative drive!
Now everyone has to see it.
The last experience tipped me over the edge, you don't want my money... ok I'll try other places. What is taking this review back up to 3 stars is recently after trying to make last minute appointments everywhere in town besides Teres with an out of town visitor, I caved when she kept pulling ya'll up on Yelp. You nicely accommodated us and with the exception of her pedicure taking 20-30 minutes longer than mine so I had to bounce around like musical chairs trying to not be in the way... it was actually a pleasant experience and my toes still look great. The employee that took care of me was awesome, she's blond and always has cool glittery eye makeup, and she made me feel relaxed for once.
I will try Teres again... maybe one of these amazing acrylic-gel manis I keep hearing about (that is if you'll still have me for being a grump here) as I really do like the concept, but for now... a ok it is. No shame in that.
|