There’s nothing like the feeling of a fresh manicure, and Elle, the founder, and owner of Sweet Manis knows how to take manicures to the next level.
Growing up, Elle loved to paint her mom’s nails. She says this love started at a young age and grew into her passion. Even when she was pregnant she says she was bent over painting her mom’s toes because she truly enjoyed the art of painting nails.
When she made the choice not to take the college route, she decided that she might as well make this passion for painting nails into her career. She lived in Phoenix and worked at a nail salon until this past May when she moved to Portland.
Elle says she worked hard to get to Portland, is excited to be living here. She loves the Portland weather and says the people are extremely nice. When she moved to Portland she continued doing nails, and then recently took the leap and opened her own studio, Sweet Manis.
When starting Sweet Manis, Elle knew she wanted to paint nails, but also wanted to do something that was different, and would make her stand out from other salons. This is where she came up with the dessert-themed concept. The manicure or pedicure starts off like any other, but the ending is where things differ from your average nail salon.
Elle brings you a tray of 15 dessert scented essential oils to choose from including sugar cookie, pumpkin pie, and S’mores. If you prefer a more subtle scent, Elle has simple oils as well. Once you pick an oil, Elle creates a sugar scrub with your chosen and gently massages your hands and lower arms. The scrub feels incredible and makes the manicure feel extra special. After washing off the scrub, guests receive one last special touch from Elle; a lotion massage that leaves your skin feeling soft and hydrated.
Elle takes her time with each service and never lets a guest feel like she is rushing through her work. She makes sure each guest leaves with a perfect manicure or pedicure and leaves no stone unturned throughout each guest’s visit. Elle is friendly and wonderful to visit with throughout the service.
Sweet Manis is located in the ActivSpace building, a place in Northwest Portland for local artists, hobbyists, and entrepreneurs to work and be inspired. Elle’s space is small but cozy and inviting, and fills with daylight through her large window when the sun is out. Sweet Manis is open from about 8 until 8 every day. Elle likes to accommodate those who may not work the typical 8-5 and is willing to work around everyone’s schedule.
Sweet Manis offers pedicures, and manicures including dip and gel. Right now, Elle is giving all first-time customers 50% off! Come experience the sweetness of Elle and a sweet mani!
Sweet Manis: 1722 NW Raleigh Street, Portland, OR. 97209
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