Walea by Salon Glitter

I made an appointment in December for gel and a simple design (I wasn't quite sure what simple entailed and ended up getting stickers when I could have asked for painted). I really liked the quality of the gel and wanted to come back for one of their monthly gel specials. Due to the holidays, I had to extend out several weeks. Gel nails normally don't last very long on me so I doubted I would need to schedule a removal but I did in the hopes they would last that long.

They did not, but I was quite happy with the 2 weeks I got out of them! Most of them were ripped off by me because parts were starting to peel off. In the process, I ended up cutting down my nails to start fresh.

Unfortunately, I could not call and change my appointment since they were closed for the holidays. I hoped I could do gel extensions to get the length needed for the monthly design but apparently, this was not possible. I showed up early so I could discuss with the tech what happened and what I hoped for. I was told the technician I was assigned for my appointment could not do gel extensions. I offered to do a really simple manicure and just come back later for a new monthly gel special. I was told a simple manicure did not take up enough of the time I had scheduled and I would still be charged a cancellation fee for the hour not spent.

At this point, I couldn't really think of a solution. They did not seemed inclined to come up with an alternative either. I didn't mean to eavesdrop but the place is pretty small so I overheard them laughing. They did offer to have a new technician do the gel extensions and my assigned technician do a simple design.

I paid the cancellation fee (the price of a monthly gel special) and left.

TLDR; don't book appointments. Walk-ins or next day availability only.




UPDATE:

They reached out to me shortly after this review and offered to schedule a gel extensions with a monthly special. Specifically, they wanted to waive the fee, so I accepted.

Today was my appointment and it went wonderfully. The gel extensions are of the highest quality I have ever had and the monthly design is so pretty.

The fee was waived but the quality is of such that I do think it's worth the cost. I'm hopeful that the extensions and design will last a few weeks. I know now that they will fix individual nails so I hope to use that service when needed.

In summary: I still stand by being very careful about scheduling appointments. I'm not careful enough with my nails to schedule a refill or removal in advance. Their cancellation policy is strict but fair. I am glad they reached out to me so I could get the services I wanted.

I don't get why this place has so many good reviews. I got a pedicure with gel removal and application and paid $80. They didn't even massage my feet or apply a hot towel like most other salons do FOR HALF THE PRICE. I knew going into it that a massage and callus removal cost extra (a ridiculous amount also), but if the base cost is already that much, I expected a higher quality experience. And idk, maybe a glass of champagne and chocolates??? should've just done my toes at home myself.

Also, for a salon that looks so nice, they don't even have massage chairs. The only good thing was that the girl who did my pedicure didn't seem to be rushing and took her time. But, still not worth the price AT ALL. Go somewhere else with your money.

I love the aesthetics and vibe of this place! Probably the first nail salon that I've been to that's very modern and fancy. On the pricey side tho but I think they deliver quality work.

I get my gel mani and pedi done here. I love the Japanese quality design manicure they provide. They're very creative and I feel like they can do whatever design you show them. It also last a while! That's why I keep coming back to them for my mani! I also love that they monthly specials for nail designs so you save some $ if you choose that.

Only thing is that they're pretty booked because they have so many regulars. So keep that in mind and book in advance! Their cancellation policy is also pretty strict, if you don't cancel within 24 hours, you get charged.

Very nice manicurist. They actually didn't have the color I wanted but she worked really hard to find colors and a design I loved. I go for more subtle nails so I'm super happy I could find some mellow bling.

Adding a bit of sparkle in my step...

I've been going to Salon Glitter back in the Keeaumoku location which I do love but are one of many tenants forced out to developing condos is sad but is the "something happens for a reason" underlying is meant to be as it was painfully small and dated a move to there new location selected was in the A'ali'i at Ward Village is a stunning refreshing vibrant place that brings out the bougie glitter we know they've been giving us.

Reservation is a must and will be impossible to get that service you desire and instead of calling I stopped by as I'd rather ask and show my situation with my nails as they are in horrible shape and need help badly and got my time slot at the perfect time.

I already knew exactly what I wanted is a manicure...gel with fade *Grin!* with the intention of something light purple turned out to be a glittery opalescent rose gold pinkish and yes a couple of my nails weren't in great shape so gel extension was necessary and surprisingly was an easy fix.

What I do also love is they have monthly special for both manicure and pedicures which is a preset design but is stunningly affordable and you need to follow them on Instagram @walea.salonglitter

Parking is the massive positive as you can park right in the building as you enter straight is obvious for residents only as it's gated, on the right are for residents guests and to the left is for retail parking. No tickets...no validation just park. You can also park in the Whole Foods building and at Ward Entertainment as well the possibility is incredible as in a strange turn moving out due to development moved into a developing community but I couldn't be happier at this current location.

Self care strengthen yourself much more than you know.

Thank you!

I'm torn about this place.. I understand it's a nicer/premium style of nail services being done at this salon but $76 (not including tip) for gel removal and gel pedi with no feet care or scrub/massage lol am I missing something? They did a good job with shaping and cuticle removal but that's it. I don't think I'll come back but I'm glad I tried it out.

Edit: I didn't realize until I took a closer look but the shaping is wonky. I know the tech asked me what I thought about the shaping in the salon and I said it's good but it's so obvious now with colored polish on my toes.

Congratulations to Laureen, Yuko, and the Salon Glitter staff for the opening of their new nail salon and massage spa!

Located in A'ali'i by Ward (next to businesses such as Club Pilates), it is beautiful with lots of stations for manicures and several pedicure stations.

I normally see the manager Laureen, but I'm not sure if she is taking new clients. So, depending on what you are looking for, their staff is well-trained and the more seasoned staff can do the more intricate designs.

The massage rooms are in the back. I had a 60-minute deep tissue massage with Keiko and it was amazing. She got into the knots in my shoulders and tight muscles.

Cheers to Walea at Salon Glitter near Ward. I'm so excited to be coming her for both my massages and manicures!

Love the aesthetics here. It's probably the fanciest nail salon I've been to. I like that they ask what color you're looking for and pull a few options for you. She also checked in many times about how the shape of the nails/color was. I'm looking forward to going back and trying a mani!

I am IN LOVE with this nail salon! I received a gift card for a pedicure when they were still located in their previous location, and I must say, I'm so glad I waited a year to use it, because this new location is AWESOME. Everything is new. The place is spotless. I was in heaven for 45 minutes as I got my toes done. I got the basic pedi which came out to just over $60 with tax.

I have experience two massages here. Both with Akiko. I did the 90 minute aromatherapy special they were offering. She has strong fingers and can give the hard pressure when asked. My entire bodywork felt looser and she really found my knots. Will definitely be back for more.