Leave it to a former Starbucks executive to carry the “third place” concept to nail salons.

Jane Park created Julep Nail Parlor as a place where women can bond and socialize while getting pampered.

“I really see a need for there to be an environment where there’s a special type of energy for women and girlfriends,” Park said.

Julep aims to take the isolation out of salon appointments. The parlor features moveable furniture, allowing customers to sit together during regular visits.

The shop also doubles as a venue for special events such as bridal and baby showers.

Mothers can take advantage of “Mommy Mondays” to get their nails done while their kids play under the supervision of an in-house nanny, and “Chick Flick Thursdays” feature movie classics like “Wonder Woman” and “Bridget Jones Diary” on a 54-inch plasma television.

The parlor’s “Staycation” special offers an in-town getaway of sorts, providing an umbrella drink with all one-hour manicure-pedicure combination packages, which go for $52.

Julep has joined the “green” revolution by using extreme heat and pressure rather than chemicals to sterilize its equipment, and the company offers only natural nail services to avoid exposure to toxic fumes.

“Nobody else does that,” Park said. “We’re pretty far ahead in terms of the level of sterilization and environmental friendliness. It’s part of our core mission.”

Julep opens March 12 with an open house that features free manicures, eyebrow shaping, facials, and neck massages between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Joshua Adam Hicks can be reached at 425.453.4290