The Sweet Life

Sweet Life Nail Bar & Lounge is no stranger to media attention.

The Stapleton nail shop was named the destination for manicures and pedicures in 5280’s recent Top of the Town issue. The Denver magazine has featured Sweet Life before and the shop has also been published in Westword, Sunset Magazine, The Huffington Post and American Salon.

“It just hasn’t been done so people were impressed with the concept,” Sweet Life co-owner Anna Hughes said about the shop’s business model. Sweet Life has competitive pricing compared to other nail salons, but uses green products wherever possible, recycles as much as possible, and serves drinks (everything from coffee and tea to mimosas and martinis).

Hughes opened Sweet Life Nail Bar & Lounge with her partner, Diane Bilello, in 2009. They both live in Stapleton, which is one of the reasons the pair chose the location.

“I saw a need for a cute, comfortable place,” said Hughes, who decorated Sweet Life’s space at 2373 Central Park Blvd. “I love doors, windows and mirrors.”

The shop is decorated with a row of doors from an old Denver hotel, chandeliers from a historic mansion and other features to create an environment where anyone would feel welcome.

“I want men to feel comfortable here too,” she said.

In addition to manicures and pedicures, Sweet Life offers facials, waxing, massage and other services.

Hughes said customer service also sets the shop apart.

“We have a full-time manager and a receptionist,” she said, which helps with scheduling and the overall customer experience.

The business currently has 10 employees and sees expansion in its future.

“This certainly is a flagship store, but we do have an idea for smaller Sweet Life stores,” Bilello said.

“I see Sweet Life everywhere someday. I do,” Hughes said, smiling. “Everyone deserves the sweet life.”

Learn more: Visit sweetlifenailbar.com.