Autumn Arrives Early With New Nail Salon

Betting on a new business is always a risk. But Night Chhour has good luck on her side. Chhour owns the recently opened Autumn Nails and Spa, which was named in the hopes that an omen comes true.

"It's traditional for Asian people to have their mother or an elder chose their business's name. Autumn is my niece's name, and she was born in the Year of the Dragon, which is considered the best year," she said, adding it's symbolic for good luck, strength.

Autumn Nails and Spa debuted at 4237 Main St. in Manayunk in late June—deep in the heart of summer. Chhour, from Olney, has worked at a variety of nail salons, most recently in Berlin, NJ. Aside from the lessened commute, owning a small business fulfills her dream of serving as her own boss.

The dream became reality quickly over the last month. Chhour, 30, had considered striking out on her own for a few years and casually perused storefronts until arriving in Manayunk June 14.

"When I came here, everything just fit. I liked it. This place was calling to me—it just feels right," she said.

The next day she quit her job, signed a lease and by June 22 the shop opened. Formerly Get Nailed Spa, the property didn't require much alterations. She purchased new equipment and cleaned up a lot. As the business grows, Chhour will slowly make over the property but she was able to leverage the former business as an advantage.

Autumn Nails offers manicures, pedicures, waxing, acrylics, and hypoallergenic treatments, among other amenities. Chhour noted there's an intense sterilization technique and ventilation system, and emphasized that all technicians speak English.

Manayunk and Roxborough do possess a healthy assortment of competitive nail salons, but Chhour said she welcomes the challenge.

"It's not a huge concern. Every salon is different, and we need to make our experience different from other places," she said.

With a sign inviting customers to: "Enter as Strangers, Leave as Friends," Autumn Nails and Spa seeks to make the stay an enjoyable experience. Massage chairs, WiFi and beverages are included in treatments.

"We'll give you personal attention, personal care. I've put all my efforts into making this a relaxing experience," she said.

Though the salon is up and running, Chhour said she yet had the chance to relax and take it all in.

"I'm still adjusting to it all. I haven't felt excited yet—it's still so new," she said.

For more information, visit the Autumn Nails and Salon's Facebook page here.

Read a Yelp review here.