SPEAKERS
CINDY BACCUS
Cindy Baccus Digital Marketing Cindy Baccus’ passion to help her clients learn the techniques necessary for a Fun & Exciting Marketing Plan is one of the reasons she is so popular among Entrepreneurs. Cindy has developed innovative & affordable marketing ideas for many clients across multiple industries. These concepts have resulted in increased revenues – without her clients breaking a sweat! Cindy is considered an expert in the field of social media and digital marketing and recently served as an Instructor & Program Developer at Collin College. Social Media Marketing, WordPress, professional blogging and various topics on business were just a few of the courses she developed and taught. Whether it be Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook or Google My Business, Cindy knows how to connect them all into one easy to use platform that can be easily and effectively managed. Sound intimidating? Don’t worry! Cindy is an expert communicator having graduated from the prestigious John C. Maxwell leadership and speaking program. Cindy can make even the most complex challenge look simple. Simply put, Cindy always has her fingers on the pulse of the social media community. Cindy has authored several books and has served and headed several boards. Prior to teaching at Collin College, Cindy had a thriving social media and leadership coaching business. Cindy cares about what she does first and foremost. She wants to see you succeed and she will help you accomplish your business goals by not only driving clients to you but they will also know who you are, what you must offer, and what separates you from the competition. Family is important and that’s exactly how she treats her clients, like family! When Cindy is taking a break from growing your business you can find her watching sports with her husband and best friend or spending time with her two grown kids and her two furry adopted babies.
JORDAN BOYD
Third-generation groomer with lifelong experience in the pet care industry 13+ years professional grooming experience Currently employed at Erika Ashley’s Elite Dog Grooming as a professional pet groomer 10+ years as a Licensed Massage Therapist certified in topics spanning topics such as muscle energy techniques, fascial anatomy, trauma-informed touch, proprioception, emotional resilience, and the mind-body connection Certified as an Integrated Attachment Theory life and relationship coach Owner of New Connections Coaching, focusing on cultivating self-esteem, building meaningful connections, developing trust, and navigating conflicts Combines body-based self-care practices, nervous system regulation strategies with attachment-informed communication for holistic well-being.
ANJIE COATES
During her 36 years in the grooming industry, Anjie Coates realized that more than just dogs and cats needed her, so she began to specialize in rabbits and other small mammals. At Furry Tails, the salon she co-owns in Holden, Mass, she has created a niche market as a rabbit groomer and is recommended as the “go-to rabbit groomer” by veterinarians as far away as Maine. Her passion for continuing education shows through in her achieving CMRG (Certified Master Rabbit Groomer) as well as CCE, ACG and PGC. Combining that drive to be educated with a need to share that knowledge has led her to teach Pet Tech First Aide & CPR classes for groomers and pet owners alike. This brand ambassador for All For Groomers is currently publishing the first rabbit grooming book in the industry.
AMBER COOK
Amber Cook, M.H.A, H.H.P Meet Amber: Amber is the Owner/Founder and Lead Holistic Groomer of Pippy’s Puppy Parlor. She began her journey in grooming and Holistic pet care after walking away from a career in Medicine where she specialized in Cardiology and Trauma with a minor in Psychology. Amber enjoys pursuing continuing education and staying up to date on salon safety, grooming, and holistic techniques. She holds her Masters of Holistic Arts/Sciences (specializing in Pets) and CMCA (Certified Master Canine AEsthetician) PDS (Pet DermaTech Specialist) with the ISCC (International Society of Canine Cosmetologists), and her Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine Advanced Diploma. Amber is a certified Reiki Master specializing in Pets/animals, a Member of the ISCC, APPGA (American Professional Pet Groomers Association), IJA (International judges Association), and AKC S.A.F.E Groomer certified in safe grooming and salon sanitation. Amber grooms all pets, and specializes in Geriatric, Special Needs, and Behaviorally challenged pets. She connects with her clients and their pet parents in a professional and personal level.
SARAH CRANMER
I’m Sarah, the passionate entrepreneur behind Fresh Mobile Dog Spa, a thriving three-van operation specializing in pampering furry friends on-the-go. With over two decades of grooming expertise, I have cultivated a reputation for excellence in pet care. Since launching in 2018, I have meticulously crafted a boutique experience, focusing on personalized service and attention to detail.
In October 2021 I welcomed the first addition to my grooming family, followed by a second groomer in May 2023. These carefully selected team members reflect my commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Despite its growth, Fresh Mobile Dog Spa maintains a small, intimate feel, fostering a close-knit community of contented clients and fulfilled employees. I take pride in nurturing a harmonious work environment where team members are valued, well-compensated, and, above all, happy. With a dedication to organic growth and a knack for assembling an exceptional team, I hope to continue to elevate the standard of mobile pet grooming with every happy groomer and client.
TERI DIMARINO
An industry veteran, Teri has owned and operated successful salons and mobiles in Florida and California. An award-winning grooming contest competitor, Teri was a member of three GroomTeam USA Gold Medal teams and held the positions of GroomTeam USA Treasurer and Board Member. Teri is the recipient of multiple Barkleigh Honors and Cardinal Crystal Awards for Journalism, Judge, Groomer of the Year, and Outstanding Contributions to the Industry. She is also the recipient of the American Kennel Club’s Leadership Award. She is a Co-founder and President of the California Professional Pet Groomers Association, Inc. Teri is a popular speaker and judge at seminars and trade shows around the globe. She recently served on the Task Committee for the WPA Professional Groomer Credentialing and contributed to the writing of the PPGSA Standards of Care, Safety, and Sanitation. Co-founder, past-president, and show chair of the Boca Raton Dog Club in Florida, Teri’s dog show career included Dobermans, Tibetan Terriers, and Standard Poodles in the breed and obedience ring.
CHERYL DUGAS
Owner and operator of Swampland Grooming for over twenty-five years, Cheryl has bred and shown Airedales and miniature Pinchers. She is a member of the Acadiana Kennel Club and the North American Dog Sports and Registry. She is a lifetime member of the International Society of Canine Cosmetologists (ISCC). Cheryl is an American Red Cross Certified First Aid and CPR trainer and has helped to develop the ISCC Pet Injury Prevention, First Aid, and CPR program designed specifically for pet care professionals.
DR. CLIFF FAVER
Dr. Cliff Faver graduated with a BS in Biology and a BA in Chemistry before going on to get his Veterinary degree in 1987 from CSU. He is the founder/past owner of Animal Health Services (at one time 10 doctors, 4 groomers, 68 employees) in Cave Creek, Arizona. He is now the US distributor for Iv San Bernard (ISB) products and an international speaker on hair and skin. He uses his business experiences as a means of merging the grooming and veterinary professions to pursue his life’s passion of healing and helping horses and pets. Dr. Faver also teaches the ISB Pet Aesthetician Certification program. He is a member of AVMA, AAHA, AZVMA, and Board member for the Burbank Kennel Club. Previously served on the Novartis Lead Committee (with top dermatologists from USA), Hill’s International Global Veterinary Board, and was active in a Veterinary Management Group.
GEORGIA ASHTON FULLER
I’m Georgia Ashton Fuller. I’ve had my grooming business for 11years in south wales uk were I run a team of 6 groomers. I’ve been brought up in a family of dog showing, both parents show and handle as do myself and two sisters. We show Bichons, poodles. Labradors and Hungarian Wirehaied vislas to name a few. I compete, teach and judge around the world, solo or as a member of the Artero uk team. Teaching Asian, everyday salon grooming, creative grooming, cat grooming and business. Few of my awards Multiple best in shows Multiple res best in shows Specialises in Asian freestyle and pure breed scissor (Bichon) and workshop (Cockapoo and poodle in modern salon trim) Up and coming speaker of the year 2021 Asian groomer of the year 2021 Asian groomer of the year 2023 Finalist of pooch perfect uk. Completed intense Asian training at startwoods arts of grooming academy- Thailand.
ASHLEY HANVEY
Ashley Hanvey began her career as a Pet Stylist in 2010. She is the owner of That Scrumptious Pooch, LLC, a Mobile Dog Grooming Business in Easley, South Carolina. She is a Hanvey Mobile Ecosystems Educator who has multiple certifications, including International Certified Pet Groomer, Petcare Dermatech Specialist, Master Pet Aesthetician, Master Groomer Behavior Specialist, and Certified Canine Esthetician. She is currently studying DAATA-ICDG certification, L.E.G.S Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediation, and the Agression in Dogs Mastercourse. She maintains membership with The International Society of Canine Cosmetologists, The Association of Holistic Pet Professionals, and Pawsitiveed. Her specialties are Behavior, Handling, and Skin and Coat care.
MICHELLE KNOWLES, MPA, PE, ICMG, MPAI
Michelle Knowles was product consultant for Iv San Bernard Pet Cosmetics, has traveled to Italy to receive advanced training in Spa Dermatology and contributed her life’s work to creating a master pet aesthetician program and a pet esthetician program for The Whole Pet Grooming Academy. She founded The Tender Paw Day Spa at Cave Creek Surgical and Diagnostic Center in Cave Creek, AZ, built the grooming department from the ground up using her expertise and knowledge of dermatological issues, grooming experience, and product and ingredient knowledge. Michelle has over 30+ years of extensive experience with fear and trauma recovery, elderly pets, and a focus on managing allergic/dermatological disorders. After further study, she achieved her dream of becoming a state certified Master Pet Aesthetician with a licensed online program to mentor future Aestheticians with her life work.
MILENA KON
Milena started off in graphic design and direct sales before realizing that she wanted to do more with animals. So, she went into grooming in 2013. She is now the owner of Driving Me Knots (Mobile Grooming), DMK Bowtique (Pet Accessories), and DMK Marketing Solutions (Custom Graphic Designs). She started competing in Extreme Creative Styling & Creative Abstract grooming contests in 2015, and won Up-and-Coming Creative Groomer that same year. Her creative work has also been seen on “The Greatest Showman” with Hugh Jackman and “Orange is the New Black” on Netflix. She was awarded the Barkleigh Honors Creative Groomer of the Year in 2018.
PAM LAURITZEN, PDS, ICPG, MPS, ISCC Meritus
Pam Lauritzen has been a leader and pioneer within the Pet Styling Industry for over 50 years. She is recognized by her peers as an accomplished Pet Stylist, Pet Styling Judge, Lecturer, Author and trade Show Manager. She has authored numerous articles and has served as a field editor for Groom & Board magazine. She was also the Publisher and Editor In Chief of PetStylist, a trade publication known for its commitment to education.
Pam was selected by her peers as the first “Certified Master Groomer” and Certifier in the world and is currently the founder and President of the ISCC. Pam is in the vanguard of research and development of new and innovative pet styling techniques that improve the speed, quality, and productivity of Professional Pet Stylists.
JODI MURPHY
Jodi Murphy is an alumni of Groom Team USA, where she consistently ranked within the top four groomers in the country. After capturing multiple world titles in competition, she became an internationally recognized educator, traveling worldwide to share her expertise. Jodi has produced more than 100 educational videos, widely used in grooming schools across the USA and abroad, all available on her popular streaming platform. She is the award-winning author of Dog Grooming Simplified and the creator of a signature product line, including her acclaimed apparel collection. Dedicated to advancing education in the industry, Jodi also developed a comprehensive online Distance Learning Program. Drawing on decades of experience with Sporting dogs, Jodi invented the award-winning Coat Tender®, a revolutionary carding tool developed with over 12 years of dedication and innovation. Today, Jodi continues to shape the grooming industry through her innovation, education, and unwavering passion.
MACKENSIE MURPHY
A passionate industry educator with a rapidly growing list of Gold Medal and Best in Show accomplishments, Mackensie is most certainly one of the world’s top dog groomers. Recent winner of the Groomania $10,000 Diamond Jackpot, a Global competition held in Belgium, and winner of last year’s Groom South Best in Show. She was part of the Groom Team USA Gold medal team and a Groom Team USA Hall of Fame member.
MARY OQUENDO
Mary Oquendo is a professional speaking strategist, educator, and author with over 25 years in the pet-care industry. A former mobile groomer and founder of Pawsitive Educational Training, she now helps pet professionals transition into educators through programs like Create That Program and the Holistic Grooming System Guide. An award-winning industry leader and host of two Barkleigh Honors–nominated podcasts, Mary is recognized nationally for her ability to blend practical business strategies with holistic, fear-free grooming education.
MICHELLE PRICE
Michelle Price is no stranger to the animal industry. As a Kinesiology major in college, a credentialed teacher and a presenter of the Sciences since 2004, she has studied handled and shown anything from horses, dogs and exotics. With a continued love for animals, she began grooming in 2020 and quickly established a full time mobile grooming business . During that period, she created Handle It, and Clip It, to encourage better ergonomic practices, reduce pain levels and extend the life of groomers. Saftey, animals and ergonomics are her passions and is excited to share her knowledge.
SASHA RIESS
Sasha Riess is a master dog stylist, educator, and innovator with over 40 years of experience in the show dog industry. He has handled and styled more than 800 champion dogs across 33 breeds worldwide, earning a reputation as one of the most trusted and respected figures in the field. His precision and artistry have played a key role in shaping the careers of some of the world’s most successful show dogs, many with multimillion-dollar legacies. Sasha is the creator of the groundbreaking Phi Excellence method, a unique approach rooted in the golden ratio that redefines grooming by blending science and art. This method brings balance and harmony to every cut, transforming even the simplest trims into works of art. Through his global seminars, workshops, and mentorships, Sasha has educated over 100,000 dog groomers, empowering them to elevate their skills and achieve excellence. His passion for education and innovation extends to product development, with patented grooming tools and coat care products that have become industry staples, reflecting his commitment to both canine well-being and grooming artistry. Sasha’s legacy continues to inspire groomers worldwide to pursue mastery in their craft, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in dog styling while promoting the highest standards of care and excellence.
KAYLA SCOTT
Kayla Scott is an award-winning groomer, educator, and industry advocate dedicated to helping professionals build confidence and sustainability in their careers. Since beginning her grooming career in 2018, she has developed a successful one-on-one studio in Waco, TX, while also earning recognition in the competition ring for her technical skill and artistry. Her passion for education comes from lived experience. Kayla understands the challenges groomers face daily — from navigating client communication and pricing conversations to managing demanding breeds like doodles. She aims to provide practical strategies, clear techniques, and proven approaches that empower groomers to strengthen both their work at the table and their business practices. Kayla combines approachability with professionalism, guiding groomers to leave each class equipped with new skills and the confidence to use them.
TAMMY SIERT
Tammy Siert’s grooming career began in 1990 while working as a receptionist for a friend’s grooming salon. She quickly fell in love with the art of dog grooming and started to attend local dog shows with the salon owner, who showed and bred Bichon Frise. After apprenticing with him for a few years, she competed in her first show at the All American Grooming Show where she was bumped up to A-level status. Naturally, she became hooked on competing! After a long career in the grooming ring, earning multiple Best in Show Awards and making GroomTeam USA, she retired from competition in 2013. Tammy is currently a Global Educator for Andis, grooming contest judge, secretary for GroomTeam USA and manager of a popular, upscale grooming salon in Hinsdale, IL.
PATSY BROOKS-TALLANT, PDS, ICPG, MPS, ISCC Meritus
Patsy embarked on her pet styling career in 1978 while showing Miniature Poodles. After completing her college education, she gained valuable experience across diverse sectors of the industry, including kennels, veterinary clinics, small and large salons, and corporate environments. In 1995, she founded her own grooming salon, which later expanded to encompass three salons and four mobile units. Currently, Patsy dedicates her vast expertise to overseeing the management of her mobile units and offering educational opportunities to fellow groomers. She is a co-founder of the Million Dollar Mobile series, an initiative by The Grooming Loop LLC, a consulting firm dedicated to providing educational resources and guidance to groomers worldwide, in which she serves as a co-owner and founder. Patsy holds a lifetime membership with the International Society of Canine Cosmetologists (ISCC) and carries the prestigious title of ISCC Master Pet Stylist Meritus.
Patsy is a founding member of Texas Professional Pet Groomers Association where she serves as the treasurer. Additionally, she contributes her expertise as a judge and instructor for various national pet styling competitions. Patsy’s unwavering support comes from her husband of 40 years, David. Together, they have three children (two of whom are groomers) and seven grandchildren. Patsy is also a professional DNA Genealogist with a specialization in adoption-related issues.
CODY THWEATT
Meet Cody Thweatt, a 3rd (!!!) Generation Texas Sharpener and co-owner of Fort Worth Shaver and Groomer Supply House (formerly known as Gem Grooming Supply) with his dad, Bill. FWS has been in business since 1971 and a master service center for Andis, Oster, Wahl, as well as warranty center for Double K.
Cody has been sharpening and repairing random things for over 10 years. He knows education is important and that’s why Cody is an open book and judgement free zone when it comes to maintenance or repair questions.
RACHEL TRUMBLEY
I started as a bather in January 2000. After learning how to groom, I opened K-9 Designs at the age of 25 years old in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 2006. After navigating the business world for almost 14 years, I launched my first mobile grooming van in 2020. I have attended expos all over the country to learn and network to grow my business & skills.
SHANNON TUPES
Shannon Tupes is a certified master groomer and has been actively involved in the pet industry for over 25 years. She is a member of GroomTeam USA, a current Board member of GroomTeam USA, and a Global Educator for Andis. Shannon has actively been showing dogs her entire life. She is a successful breeder, owner, handler of Bichons and has finished over 30 champions under the kennel prefix Releve.
KYURI UM
A key figure in the global grooming arena, Kyuri Um brings the authentic techniques and sophisticated precision of Asian pet styling. Her extensive experience as an adjudicator at elite international events is unmatched. Kyuri is a highly respected ISCC Judge and KKC Judge, frequently overseeing competition at top-tier international events, including the prestigious World Dog Show. She is an award-Winning Artist. As a multi-award winner in numerous competitions, she has consistently secured gold medals and numerous trophies in the Asian fusion category, demonstrating superior skill and visionary creativity. Kyuri is also a global educator and mentor. Beyond the judge’s ring, she is a dedicated educator and influential figure, generously sharing her extensive knowledge and technical prowess through advanced seminars to groomers worldwide.
ERIKA ASHLEY VENTURA
I am a second-generation groomer who followed in my mom’s footsteps. Despite my college major in mathematics and a minor in business, my love for dogs and the grooming table was irresistible. At 27 years old, I opened my own Grooming Salon, Erika Ashley’s Elite Dog Grooming, in the heart of Plano, Texas. Now, after almost 5 years, I have 17 employees who have become an integral part of my life. Six out of 7 of my groomers have been with the company since we opened, creating a strong sense of community and belonging. My salon has been recognized for its outstanding services by Living Magazine, The Star, Yelp, The Neighborhood app, and numerous other reputable publications. I am Pet CPR certified and a proud member of TXPPGA. I hope to one day sit on the board to help make a difference in our industry. I strongly believe in elevating our profession to be respected by all who ask us, “What do you do for a living?” I have taken my passion for this and applied it to every aspect of my salon. The way my team speaks to clients and each other. How working with pride, professionalism, and confidence can create a smooth and happy work culture. The importance of setting a clear vision and established expectations through the use of handbooks and policies. These tools can allow your managers to guide your Team to success quickly, which is why I am writing this application. I want to share how I made this possible and how a professional and positive workspace can be obtained.
J. SCOTT WILBURN-WOODS
Scott currently owns and operates two brick and mortar salons, a boarding facility as well as a mobile unit with a second and third unit on order. Scott is the co-founder of The Million Dollar Mobile series as well as an award winning competition pet stylist. Scott’s newest passion in life is to help others be as successful in the grooming world as he has become. Scott’s Personal Statement: “My career started at the early age of 10 years old when I groomed my grandmothers St. Poodle with a pair of dull kitchen shears and I guess I was hooked for life. Forty-six years in the pet industry have evolved into the best career anyone could ask for. I wake up every morning and ask myself what do I get to do today. Life sometimes will send you a curve ball, in 2020 not only did Covid change the world, one of my salons burned down in a shopping center fire. Both of these events took all of my experience and knowledge to survive as a business. Oh yeah, I’m married, have 2 rotten American Pitbull Terriers named Abraham and Cleo, 30 or so Koi fish and I love to go camping in the mountains, 4 wheeling anywhere and everywhere and speed around the lake on my Jet Ski’s.”