GoldiGems: Polished Nail Bar

It's no secret how much I love Milwaukee and all the amazing hidden gems it has to offer.  To chronicle my experiences with the best Milwaukee has to offer, I've come up with a new segment: GoldiGems.  In it, we'll explore the Cream City, looking for the shops that can make your amazing event even more memorable.  I'll do the leg work and you can reap the benefits.  A real win-win, yes?  I think so!  Enjoy!

This summer has been cray-cray for Goldiluxe!  We've been designing our little tushies off and Allison and I decided that after all the summer hoopla we would schedule a "Treat Yo'Self" day inspired by one of our favorite shows, Parks and Recreation.  Last Sunday, we finally got to have our fun.  We went to brunch at Trocadero (which was ah-MAH-zing, beeteedubs...) and then headed over to Polished Nail Bar for much needed manis. 

Sadly, I didn't get the chance to get any pics of our brunch, awful blogger that I am.  But, let me tell you, I had the breakfast tacos, a killer Kir Royale, and a fruit plate I shared with Allison.  The portion size was perfect.  I am a small plate fan, in general, so I was delighted that my tacos were sized as such. Our fruit plate was wonderfully fresh and flavorful.  We were given attentive service and the atmosphere of the restaurant was light, fun and relaxed.  A perfect place for a wedding day brunch!  I kept imaging a happy bridal party, adorned in smart outfits and stylish accessories sipping mimosas contentedly on the spacious patio.  Seriously, if you haven't been to Trocadero, check 'em out. 

From there, we took a short hop over to Polished.  From the outside it's pretty cute.  It sits upon what used to be a copy shop.  A nail bar, of course is a HUGE improvement in my book.

When we got there, we were immediately greeted, checked in and offered something to drink.  The young lady that greeted us also took the time to confirm our services.  I decided to get my first ever shellac manicure.  I'd heard a lot about them, but had never had one.  I did ask if the process was harsh on nails or leeched any creepy chemicals.  My fears were assuaged immediately.  BTW, the decor is amazing in there!  I managed to get a few snappies of some of my favorite details.

Pretty chandies, am I right?! 

After confirming our services we were sent over to pick out our colors.  The selection was HUGE!  Allison chose a traditional mani and I was shown to the shellac area.  So many colors to choose from....so many in fact it took me for-EVAH to pick something. A great problem to have, I think.  We weren't poked, prodded or otherwise rushed through the process...such a patient staff!

I was super happy to see they carried Essie.  It's one of my favorite brands. 

 My wonderful manicurist (who forbade me from taking a picture of her) was SUPAH awesome.  She answered all of my stupid questions, put up with me while I almost changed my mind on polish, was cute as a button, and most importantly-she did an AMAZING job on my nails.  Seriously, y'all.  She was fab.

More adorableness.  The light fixtures in that joint were KILLING me.

So, Polished is fab.  What does that mean for your bridal party?  Well, in addition to having some of the best prices in town (the 'cc' means that's the price you pay if you use a credit card...there is a slight discount for paying with cash) they've got some great ideas on how to make the big day a little more special.  For $250, you can rent out the entire space for two hours.  You can bring snackies, some champy and really make an event out of it.  Although the $250 doesn't cover the cost of your services, the Polished gang will make sure you're pampered and relaxed.  But don't think you have to pay extra to have a good time.  You can still bring the bubbly and munchies even if the idea of a private event isn't quite your scene.

As for the shellac?  I LOVE it! I'm over a week in and my nails look the same as on day one!  

Pretty great, right!  That coral polish really is the living end, isn't it?! A big thank you to Polished for allowing me to get all up in their biz.  I had a wonderful experience.  I do hope that, if you're in the market for a cute place and great staff, you'll give Polished a whirl.  Ooh, also, for more pictures of Polished cuteness, check out the gallery.

This post was not solicited or compensated by Polished in any way.  I had a really positive experience and thought I'd show a little love.