Opening grooming shop

[GreatDaneFan]

I have recenlty entertained the idea of opening my own grooming shop. The area I am prospecting is in need of a good grooming shop! I have been grooming for 5 years, working for someone else. I want to open my shop out of state, so no worries of infringing on my former employer's territory.

This will be my first business venture on my own. ANY feedback from any members would be much appreciated. Thank you!

[SalemWitchChild]

Lots of advertising. Find the best quality grooming products in your price range and stick with it.. If you can buy in bulk you get a better price that way. and lots of luck in your new adventure.

[GreatDaneFan]

Thank you SalemWitchChild! I know of some places to buy in bulk, and I think my Mom can make the bows for poodles- every little bit counts!

My shop will be in the same town as my parents and brother- they have already agreed to support me in any way possible- so I am blessed in that regard.

[Happy Tails]

Originally Posted by GreatDaneFan

I have recenlty entertained the idea of opening my own grooming shop.

It's a lot of fun but I recommend it only for people who love dogs. I opened one in Katy, TX and have been really enjoying meeting dogs and dog lovers! I work all day with animals and go home feeling I did something good.

[barnjess]

Oooh lucky you congrats, i am considering being a groomer, but I havent a clue where to start

[Luvmyjob]

There are so many things I could tell you about starting your own shop, but this post would be a mile long.I opened my shop about 11 yrs ago, I previously worked at 2 different Vet. clinincs. It was the best thing I could have vere done! If you have any specific questions, PM me and I'd be glad to help.

[searlessh]

can you help me by telling me how you caught started in the business

[GreatDaneFan]

Thanks, everybody!

I have been grooming for others for a while, so I already know what I am doing in that regard and LOVE dogs!

My husband and I own our own insurance agency, so I have experience staring a samll business, but I am just worried because this will mbe a sole venture, since he will be involved in our other business.

[Camberaoh]

Ok i know im coming into this late lol i must have missed it somehow. I'm a groomer but i work for someone else right now. I cant wait to open my own shop someday. But about the bows what we do at our shop is use the lace from a fabric store and tie a bow on to the rubber band and then make the ponytail. and for just bows in the ears we cut about a inch long peice and tie directly to the dogs hair right at the top of the ear. its very inexpensive and the customers love the bows. Just a thought if you hadnt already had a better idea

[Gee]

Advertising is very important.I started mine in a small town.I called everyone from a-z and told them of my new business and offered an intro discount special.I did things like 10 clips got you one free.This encouraged regulars, as you know nothing is worse then only seeing a dog twice a year matted to the hilt.I sold grooming products like combs desheding gloves and detanglers (show sheen).With this i encouraged the customer to comb and detangle there dogs inbetween visits.Just like at the hair salon your hair dresser recommended products to you. I kept books with all different pictures of clips like for show dogs.I discussed with the client what they want, no surprises and a happy sure to return customer.This inspired some to keep the dogs detangled so they could have that hair cut and got them coming in more often then 2x a year.Have a lawyer do up some legal notice regarding responsibility.Try to establish as many sweeeeet customers as possible. Basically.the ones that come monthly, a bichon in full show coat or westie thats almost matt free and just a bath and trim.The owner would die with out you kind of relationship.She talks to all her friends about you and anyone on the street who asks about her pretty dog.Its a walking advertisement.Good for the ego! lol ! Also have a good blade sharpener that does quality work and fast.I got jammed a few times.Best of luck and i am so happy for you.
G