Now that my full time manicurist/friend left me for Ann Arbor and her husband’s new career, I am left fending for myself to get my nails done weekly.

Yes, it’s one of life’s great indulgences and yes, as the CEO of the largest nail distribution company, I do need to get weekly manicures and monthly pedicures (although the pedicures sometimes get pushed back).

My first visit was to an upscale salon on my way home from work. My second visit was to Immerse Spa at MGM Grand Detroit.

Not to get too detailed, I would like to point out the differences from an insider’s perspective. Both locations are customers of ours, so whether or not the salon/spa bought from us didn’t factor in.

Cleanliness

Immerse was immaculate. The manicure table was preset with fluffy towels, all implements were in a hinged disinfectant tray, products were organized and clean. The polish was fresh and organized in wall racks.

Salon: The salon table was cluttered. The implements were in a Barbicide jar that didn’t seem to be changed in a long time, the products were dusty and paper "C" fold towels were used. Some of the polish was old and separated.

Sanitation

Immerse used a brand new silver file, buffing block, gold block and orangewood stick. For pedicures, they use brand new red foot files (yes, all purchased from us). The cost of these items totaled $1.18.

The salon reused files, blocks and sticks.

The price of the manicures were $25 and $23 respectively.

Experience

Immerse manicure took 45 minutes and started out with a Lavender Relaxation spray. Cuticle remover, cuticle oil, hand mask, massage lotion were all used. The massage was extra long and ended with a hot towel wrap.

Salon manicure took 30 minutes. Alcohol was used instead of cuticle remover and a drug store brand of lotion was used for the massage. Cuticle oil and hand mask were not used. I had to ask for a cloth towel to be used since the paper towels were disintegrating and disgusting.

Immerse also had a drying station available for polish, offered complimentary bottled water, coffee and fruit. The salon offered nothing.

Overall

Our industry sells one thing: service. The better the service, the better chance that not only will the client return, but also refer other people. Average or below average experiences are a deterrence and give consumers a reason for shopping at drugstores and discount stores and doing it at home.

The cost of the products used at Immerse were less than 10% of the service charge. Restaurants typically pay 25-30% for food costs. The point is that sanitation is more important today than ever and the cost of providing sanitation is lower today than ever.

The other amenities like hot towel wraps cost nothing but the cost of laundry but are priceless. If you are in the business, please use these tips and if you have others, I would love to hear them.

In the meantime, my journey will continue. It’s fun, educational and my nails never had it so good.

Happy Tuesday!

Who would have ever thought that Detroit would have one of the best spas in the country? Fact is, we do.

Mobil doesn’t hand out 4-Star ratings too easily (they also gave MGM Grand one too). After experiencing Immerse, you can see why they earned it for 2009.

I first laid eyes on Immerse Spa when I got the tour of MGM after it first opened in October 2007. I was amazed at what I saw then and the only thing that has changed since is that the staff has improved to match the quality of the amenities.

First off, they have the nicest indoor pool in the U.S. and I have been to plenty of spas. They actually have lounge chairs and mini-cabanas spread around a huge pool with piped-in spa music.

The work-out room is well-equipped although seldom used. I think guests at MGM flex their muscle pushing the slot buttons more than the free weights.

But it’s the locker rooms that sets Immerse apart from others. You would not think you were in Detroit but in Vegas or Arizona. The locker rooms boast all the required wet pleasures (steam, sauna, whirlpool) along with rain showers, deluxe amenities and ultra soft and large towels. The only thing missing is iced washcloths and cucumber slices for the steam room.

The treatment rooms are tastefully done and the waiting lounge is acceptable. The salon features 3 pedicure stations, 2 manicure stations and 3 styling chairs (they are looking for a full or part-time stylist-great opportunity for those that have clientele and want to come to a great place).

This past weekend I had their "Player’s" pedicure. A few days earlier I visited an upscale salon and had a manicure. Tomorrow I will review both services and you will learn the true secret to being a four star destination.

Happy Monday!