Orchid Nails & Spa

So...in my search of a nail salon, I was referred to this salon by some women that work in the building across the street. I kind of avoided it for a couple months because it's not necessarily conveniently located since it's located in downtown Silver Spring and I live further out towards Laurel. However, after having had two bad experiences at other salons, I decided to finally give this place a try. First of all, they were clean, which...is priority number one for me. Secondly, the woman did an EXCELLENT job on my pedicure!!! She did not rush, she clipped and shaped my toenails properly without clipping them to short. She took her time and exfoliated properly. I opted for a paraffin pedicure (an option that I have not seen in a minute) which was wonderful! The massage chair, massaged not only my back, but my legs as well, which was a nice little bonus. She did a really good job on my nails. There were no huge ridges of acrylic left in my cuticles. There were only two things that I did not particularly care for. 1-She didn't ask me how I wanted my nails shaped. She took it upon herself to do a "rounded-square" shape, which...I actually do not care for. I prefer a "square-square" shape. And 2-She continuously mentioned the SNS powder, how good it is, and how most of her clients prefer that and how I should try it. As much as she spoke about it, I'm guessing it's more expensive, lol. I am actually well aware of SNS, and I have never gotten it, because...I don't want it. That being said, those two things won't stop me from going back. Next time, I'll make sure to tell her how I want my nails shaped and I have no problem saying "no" when SNS is mentioned. Eventually...she'll get the hint, lol.

After five gel pedis, 15 eyebrow waxes, and two full sets later, I can confidently say that I trust Orchid Nails to get me right.

I get compliments on my nails nearly every day, and when it's time for a fill, they never look old! The shop is small, but staff make it feel cozy. No, there's no complimentary glass of champagne included, but you'll be able to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while getting serviced.

What I appreciate most about Orchid Nails is their efficiency - I've had two staff members working on my nails AND toes at the same time to reduce my wait time!

As many times as I've been here, I never set appointments - I simply walk in when 'traffic' is lighter (aka Sundays or EARLY morning) and get my pretty on. Love this place.

Bad customer service, terrible service for too much money. It's not worth it. They are very dishonest. 1/100

Please don't waste your time, The Lady was rushing to do my nails. One of my nails doesn't have a full coat of color & each nail has a different shape
NEVER GOING THERE AGAIN!!!!!!!

I made an appointment and was seen as soon as I came in. The establishment was clean + quiet. Santa was efficient + thorough. I love the color and the shape. I like how the dip powder was applied with a brush, like acrylic. Santa did a phenomenal job. I will be back!

Did a walk in appt and was seated quickly. But the lack of attention to detail was poor. When I could finally see the design she had done I ask her to fix a few things. I understand it's harder with gel but it's was so haphazardly done. I didn't realize I would have to check that closely I usually trust the person who does a trade as that's what they do all day. To top it off I had all this top coat all over my finger beds that I'm trying to peel off. I would think twice returning here. They might do a simple manicures well but maybe not a simple design of lines. Also might depend on who you have as a technician.

I have been going to Orchid nails for 16 + yrs. I have never been treated so rudely. I went early on a Sunday AM, I did not have an appointment. There are 3 workers and no customers. Cathy the owner had when to store and Lilly and one other lady were sitting all balled up in the chairs on their phones.
I just want the gel taken off of my nails nothing else. I asked Lilly if she could do it she rudely said NO Cathy has to do. Now I am waiting thinking there going to start to get busy. Cathy comes in I asked her if, she said I have an appointment coming in 45 and come back at 4:00 PM. The whole time I waiting Lilly or other could of had it done it, this place was so unprofessional. Lilly is so RUDE!! Every time I go with an app I still wait, sometimes 1 hr. I have had to run out of there to pay the meter and have got parking tic's from being in there so long.
Got in my car and went down the street to nail bar, they where busy but still took me, I did not have wait at all, this is a very professional place , clean but most of all NICE. Never again will I go to Orchid Nails in S.S. !

It's okay. They are very friendly, almost falsely so, but then also will leave you with a cold towel on your leg for twenty minutes while they go finish someone else's manicure. Generally seem under-staffed for their client volume but won't acknowledge it.

I've been to Orchid Nails about 2-3 times in the last year (during the pandemic), only for pedicures. I usually get the first available tech, and I appreciate how there is never a wait, the staff is friendly and I am able to get in & out. I have been pleased with the pedicures overall, nothing fancy.

During my last visit my nail tech was chattier than normal, which is fine. Except much of the conversation was her trying to up-sell me on everything. I'm sure I said I just want a basic pedicure 3 different times. It was like "get the deluxe, you need the heal treatment, get a full set, eyebrow?". I explained that I was only treating myself to a basic pedicure, and that I'm trying to save money so maybe next time. I realize businesses are trying to stay afloat, and recoup losses, however clients could be struggling as well, and that spa pedicure may not be in their budget as we ALL struggle to rebound from the pandemic. I'm aware of the services you offer, and I was clear on what service I wanted. Instead of enjoying a relaxing pedicure, I felt like I was at a used car dealership.

To add insult to injury, as I was leaving the male tech yelled "your client", as if I was trying to dine & dash. I had already paid & tipped before I even sat down for my nails to dry. Again, I understand but there are better ways to ensure that a clients bill has been settled. It felt very accusatory, especially given the harsh racial climate were ALL living in. It was the last thing I wanted to deal with after being haggled for the past 45 minutes.

My review is not to deter customers from patronizing Orchid, but to bring these things to their attention.

I don't know if I'm just so Picky when it comes to my nails or really anything I pay for but I really was not satisfied.
As you can see in the picture alone the application of the acrylic wasn't done right it's literally lifting because it's on my skin also. The designs weren't consistent, and even the jewel on my right thumb is completely displaced.
I really only gave 3 stars because she was very nice lady, but the quality wasn't there.
It also took her like 30 minutes to do my nails which is quite fast. Her co worker even said that she normally takes at leSt an hour to do a full set and that Vivian really is fast.

5-3-21 Update -- the salon reached out to me after my review to ask if I could come back for a free redo. Finally went back last Friday, May 28. Other than over filing ALL of the fingernails of my right hand (SMH), it was a pleasant experience. I had two different ladies work on me -- thus the over filing -- and Kathy finally took care of me. After less than a week, my gel nail polish is still hanging on, but the polish on my toes is already peeling off on one foot.

Needless to say, I'm going to keep on looking for nail places.