Karen’s Body Beautiful and the Cutest Manicure Ever

I realize it takes me like a good month to catch up on life after I get back from a trip to New York City. It doesn’t even matter how long I’m there for – I went to NYC for a whirlwind weekend in August and I STILL haven’t fully unpacked my makeup bag or even blogged about the many, many adventures I had there. And I’m about to go back next week! So forgive me while I recap the fabulous weekend of August 6 – 8th. I’m so behind on life, y’all!

On August 7, I had a total rock star day. A car was sent to pick me up at my hotel and whizzed me through the city, over the Brooklyn Bridge, and right to the front door of the Karen’s Body Beautiful boutique and spa on Myrtle Avenue. Here’s a picture of me, the gorgeous Karen Tappin Saunderson, and the beautiful Renae Bluitt of In Her Shoes in front of Karen’s store. Can I just say, WOW. Natural hair love is alive and well in the streets of Brooklyn, y’all. The three of us strutting down Myrtle Avenue got all kinds of compliments, smiles and attention that day!

I was familiar with Karen’s brand of course, but I had yet to behold her new packaging. Karen’s Body Beautiful has undergone quite a transformation! The bottles are now sleek, opaque, and black. The product names have even been changed – her hair milk is now called Sweet Ambrosia. Her hair butter is now called Butter Love. The store is modern and clean and stunning – but still inviting. A gorgeous space in a funky, vibrant neighborhood.

At the back of the store, Karen’s now built an absolutely beautiful spa space. There are manicure stations and plush pedicure chairs, a wet room where you can enjoy seaweed wraps and moor mud treatments, and a room for facials and massages. The prices range from $170 for the 80 minute Muddy Maven body treatment, to $10 for a polish change. And did I mention that the space is beautiful? It is!

My time at KBB’s spa was enhanced by a special new friend. Karen’s daughter Imani is an adorable little bella with personality for DAYS! At first she was being kinda shy, but it didn’t take us long to make friends. While I got my pedicure, Imani came over with one of her favorite books – a Sesame Street book all about the alphabet. I invited her up on my lap so I could read it for her – all the while getting the most amazing pedicure.

After the pedi came the mani, and I gotta admit I got so wrapped up in the moment and the fun…I forgot to take a close up picture of my nails. This is China Glaze’s Lubu Heels – a deep deep noir with red glitter. Definitely a grown and sexy color, not for the faint of heart!

My experience at Karen’s Body Beautiful was beyond wonderful. I absolutely loved Karen’s staff – everyone was welcoming and professional. I had a lovely day in Brooklyn with my friends Karen and Renae – and my new amiga Imani! – and I can’t wait to go back and see them again!

Thanks again to Karen and Renae for EVERYTHING!

If you missed my interview with Karen on last week’s Afrobella Radio – click here to listen!

If you’re in NYC and are looking for a truly special spa experience, do yourself a favor and go to Karen’s Body Beautiful, 436 Myrtle Avenue. You will love it, trust me! Please leave a comment if you’ve been – share your experience with me!