Mary’s Musings
The Business End of Holistic Grooming typography in a blue outlined speech bubble
Illustration of a remote worker with a headset using a laptop at a desk, with a thought bubble showing financial or invoicing documents

by Mary Oquendo

There’s a kind of magic that happens when you genuinely look forward to unlocking the doors to your business each morning, which is often the result of a thriving workplace culture where joy, purpose and connection intersect to create something truly special. But when the business layer of your salon falls out of balance, the ripple effects can be profound.

A struggling business often grapples with a host of challenges, from high employee turnover to a dwindling client base. The owner, once full of hope and ambition, now feels overwhelmed and disillusioned—questioning whether starting the venture was the right choice at all. Despite investing an exhausting 80-hour workweek, they find themselves caught in a relentless cycle of financial instability, unable to pay the bills or enjoy the rewards of their hard work.

Let’s bring this layer into harmony. The “mind” of your business lies in its organization and operating systems. The “body” is your facility, grooming van or whatever you use to provide services—especially for house-calls. The “joy” of your business is often found in profit and sustainable growth.

Organization goes beyond simply knowing where your supplies and forms are stored for easy access. It encompasses the automation tools and software systems that streamline your operations, like accounting, client management, scheduling and payroll. It means regularly re-evaluating your schedules, policies and procedures to ensure they still serve your business effectively. And it involves developing strong leadership skills, including the wisdom to know when to stand firm and when it’s time to compromise.

If you’re a house-call groomer, this layer becomes even more complex. What vehicle are you using to transport your equipment? How efficiently is your setup organized to minimize what you need to carry into each home? It’s not just about maintaining your operating systems—it’s also about staying on top of your mechanical systems, inventory and overall maintenance. For mobile groomers, that includes both the interior and exterior of your van. Don’t overlook safety protocols either—fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms are essential. And finally, consider where you’ll securely store critical manuals and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for easy access when needed.

What truly brings a business joy? At its core, financial success plays a vital role. But it’s not just about generating profit—it’s about ensuring employees are fairly compensated and the business owner enjoys a sustainable, comfortable livelihood.

Equally important is the growth trajectory. Is your business expanding in a way that honors its core values and mission? Striking the right balance between profitability and integrity is key to fostering a workplace culture that inspires both dedication and innovation. In the end, true joy in business comes from the harmony of financial stability, engaged team members and ethical, value-driven growth.

One of the most encouraging developments in our industry has been the growing availability of specialized coaches. Today, there’s a coach for nearly every aspect of your business—no matter the challenge you’re facing. A skilled coach can help you navigate around obstacles and cut through the tangle of your business with clarity and objectivity—something that’s often difficult for emotionally invested owners. Simply put, a great coach is worth their weight in gold.

A business doesn’t happen by accident. It’s cultivated through intention, compassion and a shared commitment to excellence. When happiness is part of your business model, it shows in every interaction, every tail wag and every satisfied smile. The real success isn’t just in the numbers; it’s in the atmosphere you create and the lives you touch, both human and animal alike.

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