Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Liz Herman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Liz, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Growing up, I dreamed of working with animals but the only pet career I knew of what’s being a veterinarian. I shortly decided was not going to be the route I would take as I learned more about the field. My other passion was in the arts but could never pin point a medium. Straight out of school, I went to work at a tattoo shop to help out and submerge myself into an artistic community. I still love the tattoo community but it never satisfied my love of animals. When I eventually found my way to grooming, it all clicked. Not only am I able to care for animals, grooming is also an art form. Sculpting the hair/fur so pets look and feel their best. As time went on, my creative journey continued. I started to add a splash of color to ears or tails giving pets some artistic flare. Not only did the dogs love the extra attention, the parents loved it too. I’m so thankful for the clients that I have had over the years embracing my love of what I do. Now that I’ve been grooming for almost a decade, I am lucky to be able to work in a salon and a community that embraces creative grooming. To think I’ve gone from just adding a splash of color, to fully transforming dogs into another animal or a work of art is something I’m so happy to be able to do.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am a professional groomer specializing in creative grooming. In 2021, I opened my salon, Sunshine Pet Spa LLC, in the art district of Northeast Minneapolis, MN. I wanted to provide a quiet environment to ensure a comfortable grooming experience and give myself the opportunity to grow as an artist. Being able to take the time and groom one on one was so important for me because there is so much concentration involved in that I do. A peaceful space was also important to me since I wanted to be able give back and volunteer my services to local foster dogs in need.
Now that I’ve been lucky enough to grow my skills as an artist, I have become a brand ambassador for my favorite pet color company, Crazy Liberty. Through the years I’ve tried thousands and pet products and the Crazy Liberty colors were always a stand out with long lasting color and vibrant pigmentation. I’m so happy to be able to show off their products through my work and share it with groomers everywhere!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Patience; The number one quality needed in grooming in my opinion. Whether you are doing a full color or a simple haircut, pets require patience. Being able to give pets any breaks needed or calm attention is going to make your job easier and their experience better. Passion; You have to love what you do. Continuing education by attending conventions, dog shows, and seminars have played a huge role for me in keeping my grooming flame burning. When you’re burnt out, it shows in your work.
Compassion; Understanding pets needs is the basis of my career. Knowing what’s best for each individual pet is crucial. My dog clients love the extra attention being colorful brings but I know that not every dog is a candidate for color.
What would you advise – going all in on your strengths or investing on areas where you aren’t as strong to be more well-rounded?
I, personally, think it is important to be well rounded in your field. If you don’t continue to learn and grow, you could miss out on something that you’re passionate about. I definitely didn’t start out coloring dogs right out the gate. Learning the core principles of grooming, starting with a basic bath and brush, is the key to a great groom.
Contact Info:
- Website: Thesunshinegroomer.com
- Instagram: @thesunshinegroomer
- Facebook: Facebook.com/thesunshinegroomer
- Other: TikTok: @thesunshinegroomer
