Four technicians, one neighborhood salon

Shaunta owns Gumdrop and does new sets, fills and the length-and-shape talk at the start of each one. She takes walk-ins and booked clients the same way: the time first, then the color.

Pearlie does natural-nail manicures, gel polish and fills, and many regulars ask for her by name. If you want your nails short and easy, she is the one to sit with.

Jamiya does the art: French tips, chrome and hand-painted accents. Bring a picture and she will tell you how long it takes before she starts.

Deasia looks after the pedicure chairs and the kids' manicures. Students on a break and parents on a Saturday sit with her often.