Sandi Smith, CFMG | Certified Feline Master Groomer Spotlight

Sandi Smith
Sophisticated Manes
Melboune, Vic 

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How long have you been grooming cats, and what led you to pursue CFMG certification?

Technically, if you count bathing my own cats in a laundry trough with no experience, I have been grooming cats for around 21 years, professionally for 11 years, and certified for almost 8.

In 2014, I embarked on a journey to work with animals, which led me to a dog grooming course. While completing the course, I watched many cats being groomed and had the pleasure of being hired by my mentor, who in 2015 hosted a pop-up training session with our very own Danelle German.

I was able to attend, and after watching Danelle effortlessly groom multiple cats, I gained a much stronger desire to pursue cat grooming than I ever had for dog grooming. That’s when my journey toward earning my CFMG began in mid-2018.

What changed the most for you after becoming certified? (skills, confidence, clientele, pricing, peace of mind, etc.)

I already knew I could groom cats. However, becoming certified and going through the NCGI training gave me the confidence to correctly assess and handle every different personality of cat that came through my doors using professional techniques, the kind you cannot learn quickly.

It taught me patience, presence, and professionalism.

Cat grooming isn’t just cat grooming. For me, it has been a whole personal journey that helped me overcome anxiety and depression. That’s a story for another day.

What is one grooming or handling technique that made the biggest difference in your results or stress level?

Understanding that no two cats are the same, and being able to stop, assess, and reassess each moment to fit the specific cat in front of me.

What is one business shift you made that significantly improved your cat-only services?

Working a four-day week instead of seven gave me back my peace.

What would you say to a groomer who is on the fence about investing in proper cat grooming education?

I have never heard anyone say they regretted doing the course, but I do hear many say, “I wish I had started it sooner.” The next best time to start is today!

Becoming my own boss and earning my CFMG gave me my life back. I no longer break my back on naughty, overweight dogs. Instead, I groom calm, understanding cats. I don’t need to work ridiculous hours that drain me to the point of having no personal life, and I am now anxiety and depression free.

Cat grooming gave my life back to me in more ways than one. You will never regret trying, but you may regret never trying. And as the great Nike says, “Just Do It.”

 

Certified Feline Master Groomers don’t guess. They groom with intention, education, and confidence.

Get the program that gave Gianna the knowledge and tools to become such a fabulous cat groomer. 👉 Complete Cat Groomer Training Syllabus

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