We have recently celebrated 5 YEARS IN BUSINESS!! HOLY SMOKES
It has gotten me thinking about where we started and how far we have come.

In case you didn't know, here's some background... 
I used to work as a groomer for a corporate grooming salon.  It started off great, but the longer I was there the longer the corporate politics weighed on me.  Towards the end I was basically crying every day and just miserable.  I wanted to leave, but as many of you know groomers are paid commission only and going to a new salon is a big risk. Will you get enough dogs? Will your clients follow you?  It's a gamble.  I was making really good money at the corporate salon, but it just wasn't worth my sanity anymore.  

​Let me say that a little louder for those in the back...
NO AMOUNT OF MONEY IS WORTH YOUR SANITY.  Take care of yourselves!  Your employer is pretty much never going to put you first so you have to put yourself first.  

​So, I took the plunge and left that corporate h*ll!!  To take a little of the pressure off starting at a new salon I decided to start selling these dog bows I had been making for my own clients.  Guys, if you bought from me in our first year bless you!  Those were some drastically mediocre bows! Looking back on those pictures I'm not sure how I've made it this far.  

Ok, enough background, here's the nitty gritty on owning a business.  
IT IS HELLA HARD. 
My favorite way to describe owning a business is this, all day every day you are both always working and never working. On the one hand, you're doing what you want to do, setting your own hours, fulfilling your passion. On the other hand, you take your work on vacation with you, you take it to bed with you, you eat, sleep and breath work. 

It is December 15th.  The countdown to Christmas is in full swing and if you're like me you're binge watching at least one Christmas movie a day.  I would like to take a quick tangent to explain why Christmas movies are the best movies....
​
1- You're basically guaranteed a happy ending.  Movies with a sad or depressing ending can leave me feeling morose for days.  I love that quote "Everyone has a happy ending, if it's not happy then it's not the end".  (The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel). When I saw the Titanic I seriously sat there until the end of the credits thinking they were going to come back and say "Just kidding!  Jack is perfectly fine and he's an old man too and here he is!" 

At this point you may be thinking I am a naive, rose-colored glasses type girl.  I have experienced pain, loss and grief and maybe that's part of the reason I love a happy ending so much.  When you feel like the world is crashing around you, when you feel so sad and so hurt that the pain radiates your body and it's impossible to stand. Even then, it's possible to somehow find the strength to stand up, put yourself back together and find a piece of happiness for yourself.  I would like to reference another quote and I know I am rambling, hang in there!! "Everyday may not be good, but there is something good in every day".  I love movies with happy endings because sometimes they can be my good thing on  a crappy day.

Ok, back to why Christmas Movies are the best!!! 
2- The MUSIC.  Ahhhh, the music is so happy and bouncy and fun.  Today I was in the grocery store and I swear half the customers walking around we're singing along to the Christmas music they had playing. It is impossible to be anything other than joyful when people around you are so freely singing "Jingle Bells". 
3- The moral of the story.  Seriously, most Christmas movies have a great moral to the story and it's almost always to appreciate your family and friends, enjoy the little things in life, and not work so much.  A Christmas Carol is one of my favorites and has the best lesson of them all.  

Whenever anyone talks about role models for kids, particularly female role models, we think of characters like Mulan, Pocahontas, and Moana.  Don't get me wrong, they're all awesome in their own way and Cindy Lou Who belongs with them! 

First, I'm talking about the Cindy Lou Who in the Jim Carey version of the Grinch.  Ok, now that we're all on the same page, let's get started.  We're going to cover my favorite scenes that illustrate what a smart, brave, strong young person Cindy is and why she is an amazing role model.  

In the beginning of the movie we see Cindy voice her concerns about Christmas to her father.  Her concerns that all the Christmas mania seemed "superfluous and a bit much".  I love this scene because Cindy is bold enough to tell her dad he's acting nuts, and second because she's casually using words like superfluous.  Vocab is important kids! 

After a run in with the Grinch she starts to doubt the rumors she's heard about him, thinking maybe he's not so bad after all.  Cindy realizes that rumors aren't always true and the only way to find the truth is to investigate. So this bold girl goes out and full on investigates what happened and why the Grinch disappeared.  Going door to door, asking questions, taking notes, interrogating the witnesses.  

We come next to another great scene with her dad, she gives him a heads up that "she may do something drastic". When was the last time you did something drastic and had the forethought to warn your loved ones about it?  All my crazy ideas are on impulse only.    

This is my favorite part, she decides the Grinch is probably misunderstood and needs to be shown he's welcome in the town, so she yells out in front of the whole town and nominates him to be the Holiday Cheermaster! I would definitely not be brave enough to do that! 

However, the Mayor contests her nomination, but this girl stands toe to toe with not only an adult, but the most powerful adult in the city! She makes a coherent, well reasoned argument and manages to prove him wrong and outsmart him.  Get him girl!!  I was 18 years old before I was able to make a reasoned argument like that and that may have been a one time thing! 

So now she just has the small task of climbing a terrifying mountain and talking to someone the whole town has feared for what, 20-30 years to invite him to the Christmas Party. No big deal for Cindy though!  

Even when the Grinch is acting like a complete loon, trying to scare her away, yelling at her, she stands her ground.  Finally recommending a time out for him as she maintains her composure.  Bravery level 10. 

(I would like to take the moment to note, it may have been an impulsive decision to write all this about a children's Christmas movie, I'm mildly regretting it but I'm in too deep now so on we go)

So we skip ahead, Grinch ruins the Christmas party, steals Christmas, and is on his mountain gloating... 

Cindy is taking all the blame from the mayor for ruining Christmas.  Finally dad gets his head out of his bum and defends his daughter!!  Wake up Lou!!  

Cindy, despite all this, even though the Grinch has probably disappointed her and committed a felony, she still doesn't want him to spend Christmas alone.  She manages to put it all aside and climb that darn mountain again.  This girl is crazy fearless.  

Throughout the whole movie, she never gave up on him.  She stood up to everyone who dismissed her as "a little, not to be taken seriously, girl!" (quote, Mayor MayWho).  She did so eloquently and with great bravery.  She taught the whole town the true meaning of Christmas and basically rehabilitated a chronic agoraphobe with anger issues.  She was strong enough to let her love and light bring everyone together.  Cindy Lou Who, you are going down in my Bad Ass Role Model hall of fame! 

The holidays are here and they're filling me with a little extra stress this year.  I have been feeling like I don't have enough of anything.  Not enough hours in the day, not enough money coming in, not enough help with the bows, not enough time for yoga.  I feel like we are all probably feeling like that this time of year, at least a little.  

I think I'm going to try something new, every time I feel like I don't have enough of something, I am going to think of 3 things I am lucky to have.  

My friends. I have some really amazing friends.  I can be a difficult person at times, and they love me anyway.  Caroline, Melanie, Darcy, Kassie you guys have not only promoted my business, but bought from me too. Your support means the world to me.  

My boyfriend.  This spring will be 10 years that we've been together!  Can you believe it, ten years!!!  We bought a new house last summer, and honestly couldn't be happier.  How is it after ten years I still love his goofy ass so much?  And he still tolerates my emotional break downs, not to mention the glitter EVERYWHERE! 

My jobs.  First is my job here, making bows, being crafty and creative and happy.  It has it's highs and lows, but ultimately having your own business is amazing.  Amazingly difficult, but amazingly awesome too.  Second, is my grooming job.  I get to work at a place that lets me work there only 7 days of the month.  I get to work with some really great people, including one of my best friends.  I have become a better groomer because my coworkers have been (and are) so incredibly talented and inspire me everyday to do better.  And my boss.  She's awesome.  She has held me while I cried, she has helped me when I needed it, and she has truly cared every single day.  She helps keep me sane. 

My Family.  (ps- family this is in no particular order). Those who don't know, my dad died almost 9 years ago.  It absolutely breaks my heart pretty much every day.  In many ways he is still my role model.  He was constantly flirting with the idea of his own business, and unfortunately none of his ever took off, but I hope he would be proud of mine.  When my dad died it brought my mom and I much closer.  She's one of my best friends now and I can't wait for the next time she comes to visit.  I have 2 sisters and 2 brothers, plus one adorable new nephew, 2 sister in laws, 2 parent in laws, some great aunts and grandparents.  They're all just amazing and I'm so lucky for each and every one of them.  They have supported me even when I'm making horrible decisions.  

My Customers. Man you guys are awesome.  You're understanding when your orders are late, you check in when something is happening in my personal life, and you promote my business every chance you get.  It's been really awesome.  Special thanks to Tiffany, without you there would be no business.  Really.  Ok, you really want to know, I'll tell you the story.  So I started the business on Etsy.  For about 6 months I was selling next to nothing.  Like $20 a month and that was it.  Well Tiffany had purchased a couple times from me so I reached out to her and asked if she could leave reviews for her purchases in the hopes that would help.  Well she did more than that, she shared me all over facebook!!  I will never forget laying awake that night and just watching the orders pour in. She changed my life and I honestly don't know if I will ever be able to thank her properly.  

My new helper Mary.  Couldn't do it without you! 

My Dogs who give me kisses on rough days

My Cat who resists the urge to lay on my face and smother me in my sleep.  (He did this once but he was sorry). 

Florida.  Ah Florida.  I love life here.  

Yoga, thank you for yoga.  It keeps me sane. 

Wine, yes, I may be a glass and a half in as I'm typing this and so bear with me.  

Trader Joes Dark Chocolate and Peppermint covered Jo-Jos.  You are heaven.  Will have to do extra yoga tomorrow to make up for all these cookies.  

Ok, the wine is doing it's work and so I need to wrap this up.  It's been a really great year.  I've had some lows but some crazy highs and you're all to thank for that.  I hope you have the best holiday season and a fantastic new year to come!  

With Love
Aubrey 

Bow Maker
Glitter Master
Dog Wrangler
Wine Drinker

PS- Click on the link up top that says Brown Dog's Beds to learn about our new business coming soon!!! 

Don't want to read all this?  No worries, I'll give you the highlights right here! 
​
Groomer's Best Bet- goes to Love Groomer's VIP and Hot to Trot boxes!  They can't be beat on the value of items included, and their customer service is above and beyond! This box doesn't include shears (currently, but maybe soon they say), but all of their customers sing their praises and you will not be disappointed!
Runner Up- Scissor of the month club! They had a few bumps in the beginning, but they got their manufacturing issues under control and they are now a favorite!  Their customer service is also outstanding, and their line of Blake's Fleek shears are out of this world! Plus each month they include a coupon for the first sharpening of their shears free! 
Honorable Mention- Pure Paws! Pure paws is a very new subscription but already making big waves!  Their products are a big hit, as is their customer service!  Their February boxes even arrived with big bows on the top!  A present for you every month.

I chose not to pick a favorite from the accessories section since we have our own accessory subscription.  I didn't want to be biased, so try them all and you decide!  You'll end up using that many accessories anyway right? 

Where to find it? Right here! https://www.thelittlebirdstop.com/monthly-subscriptions.html
What's the cost? There are many subscription options available, our most popular are the value packs which are $25 for small and $50 for large.  However we also offer individualized packs of hair bows, bow ties, and neck ties so you can mix and match and create your own subscription starting at just $12-$17.
What's included? Value packs include Bows, Bow Ties, Neck Ties, and MORE! Specially chosen for the season and holidays of the month.
Is there a fee to cancel? Absolutely not! Cancel anytime.  Switch to a different subscription anytime.  You're the boss! 
What are the pros? Not having to worry about ordering bows every month for one!  Plus if you choose the value pack you get to try an assortment of products and new items that haven't even been released yet.
What are the cons? You don't get exposure to other companies, products or brands. 
How's the customer service?  I do my best to make every customer happy every time.  You can message me or email me personally anytime you have an issue and we'll make it right. 
What are people saying about it? See for yourself!  https://www.thelittlebirdstop.com/customer-reviews.html
Worth the Value Paid? You always get a good value with us.  We try to keep our prices affordable for groomers, comparable with our competition, while also keeping the quality top notch. 
Bottom Line- Give it a try! You can cancel anytime, but you won't want to! I'm also a groomer, and myself and my coworkers use my products on our grooms.  I wouldn't send you anything I don't love myself! 

​Where to find it? https://fozziebros.com/
What's the cost? Three Size Options, $35 (30+ accessories), $45 (45+ items), $75 (85+ items)
What's included? Their monthly collection includes bow ties, collar bows, collar flowers, bandannas and more! These come from a variety of vendors so you can get a diverse selection.  Hair bows are not included, but can be added on! ($10 for 20)
Is there a fee to cancel? Nope! 
What are the pros? You use accessories every month right? Save yourself a step and get them automatically shipped
What are the cons? Only con I see is getting things you may not want/use, however you probably have friends or coworkers who would want them right? 
How's the customer service? They go above and beyond to be their for their customers.
What are people saying about it? Fozzie Bros is new, however the vendors they are using so far have great feedback themselves. The owners of Fozzie Bros also have Scissor of the Month club as well as The Blade Bag, which are both favorites among groomers.
Worth the Value Paid? That is up to you and how much you love to spoil your clients with fun accessories! 
Bottom Line- Give it a try! You can always cancel and you'll get some fun bling! 

Where to find it? http://groomergirls.storenvy.com/groomersclub
What's the cost? Options start at $32-$35
What's included? Their Tie Boxes include 40 total ties, 25 neck ties and 15 bow ties.  This set is $32 per month.  Their Value Boxes include 20 bows, 10 collar bows, 10 neckties, 6 bow ties, and 6 necklaces and is $35 per month. 
Is there a fee to cancel? No fee, you just have to cancel before the 15th.
What are the pros? As with the other accessory subscriptions, these are items you will probably use every month and so getting them automatically delivered is a no brainer! 
What are the cons? Getting products from just one vendor rather than an assortment.
How's the customer service? Great. Owner is also a groomer and knows the value of good quality supplies
What are people saying about it? People love their items from Groomer Girls! 
Worth the Value Paid? Definitely! You get $3 off the regular price for subscribing and shipping is included.
Bottom Line- Scared to sign up? Go to their website and try out a regular order first! http://groomergirls.storenvy.com/products

Scissors!  Scissor subscriptions are great because who couldn't use extra shears?  Even if you already have them, you can always use a back up right? We've all had those moments as you watch your favorite curves fall to the floor and all you can do is cringe.  Yes, backups are good! 

There are other subscriptions that included shears, however these are the ones specifically geared towards a new scissor every month. 

Variety boxes generally have a little taste from every aspect of the grooming world.  Including shampoos, shears, perfumes, vet wrap, and more! They're a great bet to try things you may have never heard of before. 

*VIP version is shown below, it is sold out for February but they're adding more soon

Where to find it? LoveGroomers.com
What's the cost? $75 for the Hot to Trot, $150 for the VIP version
What's included?  The Hot to Trot subscriptions offer some of the top names in the grooming industry.  The boxes include big sized bottles, coat care, tools, accessories, and shears will be added soon (once they figure out how to accommodate lefties!). The VIP is a bigger version of their original Hot to Trot box and is shown above. (side note, I have used many of those products and they'e definitely worth it!)
Is there a fee to cancel? No, cancel and rejoin whenever you want!   
What are the pros? This box is a favorite among groomers.  The contents are always top of the line and their customer service can't be beat! Their subscription is one of the few that is always received on time! 
What are the cons? While you're definitely getting your money's worth, this is on the pricier side and may be out of the budget for some groomers. 
How's the customer service? I consistently hear that they go above and beyond for their customers. 
What are people saying about it? "I absolutely love my vip box! Best subscription for groomers"
Worth the Value Paid? Definitely! 
Bottom Line- If you have the money, its a good buy! Even if you just get a box for one month, you won't regret it. 

*according to their website, currently sold out

Where to find it? http://www.honestgroomer.com/
What's the cost? $75 per month 
What's included? The Honest Groomer subscription box includes some of the latest of what the grooming world has to offer, as well as some steadfast classics.  Expect 5 awesome items are your door every month, keeping you ahead of the trends. 
Is there a fee to cancel?  No
What are the pros? Full sized products and I don't believe they include shears at this time.  That means instead of having a pair of shears take up the bulk of the cost for the subscription and then some cheap bonus items thrown in, you'll have a variety of top of the line products.  
What are the cons? It's on the pricier side.  If you work at a big box store that doesn't let you use your own products (like shampoos etc) this is probably not the one for you.  
How's the customer service? good
Worth the Value Paid?  Most customers say yes
What are people saying? "I've been dying to try the vog mask, thanks for including it this month!"
Bottom Line- Unfortunately I wasn't able to contact the owner for details on this subscription.  Because their website has it marked as sold out, there was limited information I could obtain there as well.  However, we have contributed bows in the past to this subscription, and the owner is a great groomer who really cares. 

Where to find it? https://groomersbox.com/
What's the cost? $55* per month for US shipping (there are international options as well).  *I have heard they are updating their pricing so this may be changing
What's included? Items in the box vary and can include products from Artero, Les Pooches, Precision Sharp and more! It looks like most boxes include 4-6 items, often times including a set of shears. 
Is there a fee to cancel? Previously yes, but not anymore! 
What are the pros? There is a lot of diversity in this box and it is reasonably priced. No more cancellation fee! Yay! 
What are the cons?  I have heard from customers that sometimes items are missing from their boxes or improperly labeled.  These are hopefully past issues which have been resolved? 
How's the customer service? Mixed Reviews.  Some people like the company and owners, others have had issues. 
What are people saying? Some talk about problems with customer service, however most like the boxes and the products anyway! 
Worth the Value Paid? The consensus on this one is.... sometimes.  Sometimes the products are great and all there and arrive on time.  Sometimes the shears don't work and things are missing. 
Bottom Line- I would consider waiting for them to iron out the kinks on this one.  It has a lot of potential to be a great subscription one day, but their pricing is changing and their quality and consistency is a little unpredictable at this time.  

Where to find it? https://www.cratejoy.com/subscription-box/groombox/
What's the cost? $49.99+
What's included? About 4-6 items (including shears), plus some accessories (bows, bow ties, etc).  
Is there a fee to cancel? No
What are the pros? Great variety of products.  The shampoos, sprays etc are good quality brands and often full sized
What are the cons? Some say the shears seem to be lesser quality and after a few months some customers commented they have received duplicates of the same shears.  
How's the customer service? Good, no complaints from anyone
Worth the Value Paid? Some months yes, some no.  
What are people saying? Many love the products and think it is a great buy, even if you get doubles of the same shear. 
Bottom Line- I would give this one a try.  Reasonably priced and you can cancel anytime.  In the very least you'll get to try some new products.  Since you can cancel anytime, this may be a good one time purchase and then decide.  

Pretty self explanatory, subscriptions that don't quite fit in another category

Where to find it? http://pure-paws.subbly.co/product/pure-paws-groomer-subscription-box
What's the cost? $44.99 per month (Will be increasing to $49.99 March 1st (to cover increased shipping costs), so sign up now!)
What's included? Pure Paws in unique because it is always a box of their own line of products.  The February box is show above.  (PS- those are Little Bird Stop accessories!) Included were products from their Oats and Aloe line, Shampoo, Conditioner and spray.  As well as a continuous spray bottle and bonus accessories. You receive different products from one of their product lines every month.  
Is there a fee to cancel? No, in fact you also have the option to "skip a month" 
What are the pros? Full size products, plus you get to try different shampoos etc and find your favorites! They also include tips to use and special videos for their subscribers
What are the cons? It's primarily consumable products, so if you're looking to stock pile tools and such this subscription won't do that for you.   
How's the customer service? Great.  Owner communicates well with the customers.  Their subscription usually ships EARLY every month, and if there are any issues they really strive to fix them immediately.  
Worth the Value Paid? Absolutely! This would be a great subscription for your personal use to sample the products on your own dogs at home.
Bottom Line- I have never tried the Pure Paws line, however they have great feedback and this subscription would be the perfect way to try them out! 

Been having fun this week with "You know you're a..." lists. Here are my favorites!

​(Did I forget one???  Comment your favorite below!)

You know you're a groomer when... 

• You pull out your wallet at the grocery store and toe nails fall out
• You use dog conditioning spray to detangle your own hair
• Someone asks what smells like pee....and it's you! 
• You can't look at a dog without judging their haircut
• You see a dog on tv and can't help but look at how long the nails are
• You tweeze hair splinters every night as part of your bedtime routine
• You run out of human shampoo but you have dog shampoo so it's NBD
• You pick the eye gunk out of the eyes of every dog you meet
• You don't complain about the smell of anal glands
• You lean down to pet a dog and instinctively feel for matts
• You're thankful the blood on the white dog you're grooming is from you! 
• You use dog cologne when you have to run errands after work
• The hairs you pluck from your nipples are not yours
• You don't think twice about picking up dog poop with one hand while eating a sandwich with the other
• You find poop in your pocket and just shrug it off
• There's dog hair on your food but you eat it anyway
• You're grooming your significant other and hold them by the chin. (and you refer to trimming your boyfriend's beard as people grooming)
• You shave your legs with a 40 blade and velocity dry your hair after washing it in the dog tub
• You wake up in the middle of the night feeling like you forgot to trim Fluffy's nails

Part 2
​You know you're a bow addict when.... 

• You know all about the life and goings on of your favorite bow maker
• You place 4 or more orders in one month (you know who you are! lol)
• You're willing to barter goods and services "for just one more bow!" 
• You make installment payments to pay for your huge batch of Christmas Bows!
• You use your dog bows in your own hair (and your child's hair) 
• You have to seriously contemplate whether you want to buy groceries or more bows
• You lie to your significant other about how much you spend on bows
• You wake up at 3 am realizing you forgot to order bow ties
• You don't like grooming dogs that can't get bows. 

(PS- all of these are based on true events that happened to real groomers just struggling to keep their heads on straight)

It has been almost three years since our very first sale on etsy.  Looking back now I cant believe how far my little bow business has come. Actually, I can't believe how much my life has changed in general.  Three years ago I was working at a corporate grooming salon, long hours, long commute, stressful days.  I remember coming home from work, climbing into bed and just crying sometimes.  

Now, I groom 2 days a week, with groomers I respect and for a company who values my opinion and knowledge.  It is shocking how big a difference is made when you're told by the owner "you know what, this is your area of expertise, not mine, we'll trust you".  

The rest of the week I'm here, sitting on my patio, watching my dogs chase lizards.  My house is covered in glitter and ribbon, sometimes I'm overwhelmed with orders and worry I'm going to have a break down, but I wouldn't have it any other way! 

Although to be honest, it's actually a combination of what my friends think I do and what I really do.  Florida Life!  

So, on to the bows! A groomer friend of mine told me she "loves every single thing with an elastic collar!".  So, I am working on expanding that collection.  We have new tulle necklaces, neck ties, and bow ties.  This month the whole Bow Tie/Necklace section is 10% off with coupon code SPRINGFLING.  I personally am obsessed with the wild animals bows!!!  

​Well, I must be off, there are bows to be made!  If anyone has any ideas for new products, or suggestions, please email us or comment below.  We love your feedback.  Before I go, a couple reminders.... 

1- We do bows and bow ties with your logo!  Get your name out there with adorable, personalized accessories.  

2- Our new built in collar options like bow ties and tulle necklaces have sturdy elastic collars built right in! (obviously lol).  There are currently two sizes available, S/M or M/L.  Please note, these are actually Size Ranges!  No two dogs are the same exact size, so neither are our elastic collars.  S/M is a range of XS, S, M, and M/L is a range of M, L, XL.  We think this is best so you can try to find the perfect fit for every dog. 

3- Most of our items are Made to Order.  We just have too many options to keep extras in stock all the time.  Our usual turn around time on an order is between 3-5 days.  If you are in a rush you can either email us or include a "message to seller" on checkout and we will do our best to get yours out quickly, however please try to plan ahead.  We have been very busy lately and we are getting orders out in the order in which they came in. 

If you asked me what I wanted to be as a kid I would have said Mathematician.  How many kids say that??  I LOVE math!  In high school I would have said a Chemist.  I also LOVE Chemistry.  Clearly this bow business was the inevitable result of my two passions.  (cue sarcasm).  

The dirty truth is this, I was a chemist.  For several years.  After moving across the country (twice) and landing in Florida, I was having a hard time finding a lab job in my highly specialized field. Not to mention lab work is boring. Lab work and creativity are not good bed fellows.  I always loved dogs and worked in kennels all through college so I jumped at the chance to start as a bather at an unnamed corporate grooming salon.   Five years later I left this corporate store as the best groomer in the country!  (so my mom says anyway).  However leaving was a scary thing.  As groomers we are often paid only commission and so a steady paycheck is never guaranteed.  Going to a new salon at the start of slow season in Florida was TERRIFYING for me!!  As a result I put a few bows on etsy to try to supplement my income and pay for my crafting attiction.  

Etsy- great for starting out but I made NO MONEY at this!!  It was so disappointing.  Months and months of $5 sales here and there left me feeling pessimistic and dismayed. After asking a customer about my lack of sales she took it upon herself to post to facebook that people should try my bows!  That night changed my life.  I still remember staying up all night watching the orders come in. It was surreal. Over two years later I now have my own website, 1 part time employee (who is also one of my best friends and sources of support!), been to two grooming conventions, and pay my bills with money from my "hobby" rather than grooming.  Don't get me wrong, I love grooming.  I love working with the dogs and experimenting with grooms, but it is so exhilerating to see something I have built from scratch grow like this.  (PS- Many thanks, and apologies, to people who have stuck with us since the beginning.  My first bows were not great. haha).

Are bows my life?  Yes, they are.  Is my boyfriend super tired of being covered in glitter and talking about bows, absolutely he is.  However, life is a journey with many different paths and this is the one I am on right now.  I invite you to walk the path with me, and find out a little more about the inner workings of a Crazy Crafting, Dog Loving, Glitter Using, Bow Making Groomer!  

Love, 

​Aubrey