Brings the New York experience to Botswana
GOSEGO MOTSUMI
When it comes to fast pace cities none come close to the experience of NewYork. On par with the speed of the city is the service industry which has to keep up with the equally fast demands of the city’s populace.
It is this experience that local entrepreneur and doctor Tasneem Mitha has introduced by bringing the New York’s Chelsea franchise to Botswana. The beauty and nail bar, nestled in Game City’s new wing has raised the grooming bar high and earned its mark as the trendiest spot in town for discerning men and women who are seeking convenience.
“Since we opened our doors the response has been overwhelming. I guess Batswana have been yearning for good and fast service. You do not have to make appointments but can walk in and do your nails, waxing or massages. This is not a spa. It’s for busy, working professionals who don’t have a lot of time to spend on grooming, but still want the best service and results,” Mitha explained.
Decked out in sleek décor that gives more expensive salons a run for their money, Chelsea is the right spot for affordability and luxury. Apart from massages and waxing, great manis and pedis are standard, according to its clientele who continuously give rave reviews as they leave the shop.
“I used to go to South Africa for the Chelsea experience and I happen to know the lady who owns the franchise and we thought it would be good to bring the New York concept here and indeed there is a market for it. We mostly have clients who walk in while their family is busy shopping in the mall or those who want to pass time while they wait for their spouses to carry out duties in the mall,” she revealed.
The beauty industry has always been associated with women but with advent of the metrosexual man and aspiring gentlemen, Chelsea tapped into this demographic who frequent the establishment and are willing to spend money on grooming and appearance. Men have stepped up their grooming game which now involves more than just the occasional shave.
“What also sets us apart is the fact that we move with the trends and whatever is in season can be found here. When it comes to the gentlemen, our services include manicure, pedicure, eyebrow tint, threading, waxing and massages. We have also had requests of including barber services so we become a one stop shop,” Mitha said, adding that birthday parties and “girls day out” are a hit at their beauty bar.