Queendom Nail Bar: a social worker opens a salon on Seven Mile

DETROIT. Ky'ondra Tate opened Queendom Nail Bar at 6345 W. Seven Mile Rd., on the Avenue of Fashion near Livernois. Tate grew up across the street and graduated from Mumford High School before spending years as a social worker.

She funded the salon with a $25,000 Motor City Match design grant and a $200,000 loan from Huntington Bank. Nail technicians work as freelancers and keep 45% of each service, with cash tips encouraged on top. Tate once made $12 an hour at a Birmingham shop that split tips with the house.

Parrot Bar co-owner Chris Summyall bought gift certificates to hand out to neighbors. Tate now lives in Royal Oak, but the shop sits where she grew up.