In suggesting Charlene Briggs as a perfect candidate for a feature in this magazine, Linda Bond, executive director of the International Pedicure Association (IPA) shared, “I think of her so often as her knowledge and expertise are vast. Her delightful accent, her beautiful sense of humor and her warmth just radiate and touch everyone she comes in contact with. She is so interesting!”

Delivering only the highest regard for one she deeply admires across the miles in her own distinct New England voice, Linda added, “Words such as ‘bumfuzzled,’ when Charlene says them, make me smile and just feel warm and fuzzy.”

“Warm” is just one of many words that aptly describe Charlene Briggs, a lovely lady and a very busy and popular pillar of the community. Many know and love her as the nail professional at Changes Salon where she is the sole manicurist/pedicurist, striving to make every High Country woman feel worthy––and that she does, with the greatest of ease.

Growing up in Santa Barbara, CA, Charlene remembers dreaming of a different place as a child. “I always felt like I was born in the wrong place,” she recalled. “I longed for seasons and used to stare into the fireplace, imagining living elsewhere.”

A full life and several decades later, while on a trip east with a friend, she spotted a little town on a map and told her friend, “I’d like to see what a Blowing Rock looks like!” She remembers the day they came and had dinner on Main Street in Blowing Rock, with the sweet smell of hydrangeas in full bloom. “Blowing Rock is my Carmel,” she said, over 14 years later.

Charlene’s career began when her first two boys were still small. Preparing to attend Southern California’s School of Medicine, she worked in her aunt’s salon while completing nine months of beauty school in 1952 – the beginning of more than 50 years of salon experience. Charlene completed college as a registered nurse and today combines her nursing expertise with her natural nail care specialization. “I don’t apply acrylic nails,” she explains. “I teach people how to grow out their own, natural nails.” Charlene is very concerned with sanitation issues surrounding the manicure/pedicure industry and is experienced in working with clients with related health issues, such as diabetes. 

Charlene certainly leads a full life. Frequent visits and communication with her four children, 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren help occupy her heart and time, as do her many hobbies. Not admitting which team is her favorite, she confessed to being quite content watching any football game and has spent many a freezing day wrapped up in the bleachers. She also loves cooking and knitting – whenever she can find the time. Selling coveted pieces of her handiwork, such as her one-piece afghans and baby blankets, have added to her income.

It’s hard to imagine that this lively senior citizen has much free time. She stays busy (and youthful!) with the extensive clientele she’s established over the years and is available for appointments at Changes Salon from Tuesday through Friday every week. She’s on call at both the Inn at Crestwood’s spa (and has been for four years!) and also now at the new Chetola Resort Spa.

Appointments are required well in advance for nail care at its best by one of the best – none other than Charlene Briggs.