From college roommates to business partners, Kelli Coleman and Anika Jackson, co-founders of The TEN Nail Bar make a power team and are bringing modern beauty services to the city. With fabulously polished nails and an incredible rapport, they have filled a void in Detroit.
EXP: What inspired you to start a luxury nail bar in Detroit?
AJ: The TEN Nail Bar started because we wanted to provide a service experience that Detroit really had not seen but absolutely deserved. We have a commitment to customer service, community and convenience. These points of differentiation were lacking in beauty and service offerings in Downtown Detroit.
KC: We both wanted to contribute to the redevelopment of our beloved city. After many years living in thriving urban centers, we both know how important personal services and amenities are for a well-rounded living experience.
EXP: How did you two meet and what has been your favorite part about working together?
AJ/KC: We attended Spelman College in Atlanta and were freshman roommates. We have been friends and really sisters ever since! It’s amazing we get to share this experience together, and celebrating wins as a team is a blessing. We’re also thankful that we can strategize on the challenging areas of the business with each other. We truly complement each other’s skill set.
EXP: When you need to relax and unwind where do you go and what do you do?
AJ: Spa day anyone?! A great massage and hitting the steam room afterwards will get me together. But sometimes just relaxing in the comfort of my home with my favorite cocktail is enough for me.
KC: I’m honestly so often on the go that I love to be home! I absolutely love my house and I was thoughtful about creating a zen space for myself.
EXP: If you need a fabulous outfit to accompany your perfect TEN mani for a night out, what boutiques do you recommend?
AJ: They both carry stylish, on trend pieces that we can grab after leaving the nail bars.
KC: We are fortunate to have such awesome women-owned boutiques near each of our nail bar locations – Bird Bee in Capitol Park and Ferne Boutique in New Center.
EXP: What is your go to fall nail color?
AJ: Fall is the best plus my birthday is in the fall! I love grays and medium brown tones. I recommend OPI ‘Squeaker of The House’ for a beautiful cafe latte sort of brown and ‘Less is Norse’ which is a blueish gray hue that goes with everything.
KC: I actually love dark greens and blues. Essie has a fun new fall color in deep green called ‘Off Tropic.’
EXP: Is there a breakfast or dinner spot in Detroit you couldn’t live without?
KC: The Clique – Best breakfast, period. SheWolf is easily my favorite spot for dinner.
AJ: Selden Standard is my favorite brunch spot in Detroit. They never disappoint and the rotating seasonal inspired menus are always delicious.
EXP: Shaken or stirred?
AJ: Shaken served up, please!
KC: Ditto!
EXP: What is next for The TEN Nail Bar?
AJ/KC: We are excited to offer full body waxing to our roster of services at the New Center nail bar. Additionally, this location is twice the size of Capitol Park. We are able to accommodate more guests and we even designed an event space for hosting special moments. Currently we are working on national growth and expansion plans including franchising. We know the need for high quality self and nail care experiences are desired across the country. We look forward to bringing Detroit’s home grown brand to markets nationwide.
