CHICAGO -  While in town for the Chicago Midwest Beauty Show I made a pit stop at Nails Naturally, owned by LaShaun Brown-Glenn, who’s well known in the nail industry and is often seen in the pages of NAILS.

LaShaun salon is situated in the historic Pittsfield Building, which was built in the 1920s. The building is only a few blocks from famed Lake Michigan. Besides the salon, the building is home to many other businesses, including jewelry stores and a hair salon.

Although the salon may be small, LaShaun makes good use of the space she has. There are four nail stations and two pedicure thrones, plus a retail area, receptionist desk, and several comfortable waiting chairs. The salon was actually smaller. LaShaun recently expanded her space and abandoned her block, white, and silver color scheme in favor of a more spa-like atmosphere.

LaShaun, who has been a salon owner for 15 years. Currently, she has three part-time nail techs working in the salon, as well as a receptionist, who, she consider her right-hand person.

Most of the salon’s clientele are women, but there are a few men who come for services. LaShaun offers a range of services, including natural nail manicures, pedicures, and acrylic enhancements, which she loves to do.

You’d think owning a salon would keep LaShaun busy enough, but this Nail Technician of the Year (1999-2000) also manages to find time to work for Creative nail Design as a master nail technician and international educator. And she recently took on a new role. She and partner Vicki Benner founded On Point, a consulting company that focuses on professional speaking and consulting, recruiting and placement, and coaching and education for nail technicians and other salon professionals.

As I sat in my chair all I could think was how immaculate everything was. From the decor and the customer service to the manicure itself, everything was absolutely perfect. LaShaun gave me a great Creative Spa Manicure complete with massage and paraffin dip. Then it was time to pick out a polish. I chose Cinch My Corset, a pretty, shimmery mauve shade. Afterward, LaShaun asked if I was satisfied with my service, something she asks after each service. The answer? A resounding yes.

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