Paige Graye, CFMG | Certified Feline Master Groomer Spotlight
Paige Graye, CFMG
St. Julian's Cat Grooming
Dearborn, MI
How long have you been grooming cats, and what led you to pursue CFMG certification?
I began grooming cats in August of 2020. When the pandemic eliminated my previous employment, I leaned on my network and reconnected with a former boss who introduced me to NCGI. I’ve always worked in animal‑related fields, and once I discovered cat grooming, I knew that if I was going to do it, I wanted to learn from the best. Pursuing my Certified Feline Master Groomer (CFMG) credential felt like the right path to gain proper training, develop real expertise, and commit fully to the profession.
What changed the most for you after becoming certified?
The biggest change for me was my confidence — both in handling difficult cats and communicating with challenging clients. My grooming quality improved significantly, and my clients immediately noticed the difference. Once I became certified, it was easy to see the gap between CFMG grooms and non‑certified grooms. Certification positioned me as a true feline specialist among dog groomers who also work with cats, and it elevated the standard of work my clients expect and appreciate.
What is one grooming or handling technique that made the biggest difference in your results or stress level?
Learning how to lap groom completely transformed my work. Using my body as a stabilizing tool rather than relying on physical restraints has reduced stress dramatically for both me and the cats. Untrained groomers often resort to restraints, which not only stresses the cat but can be dangerous for the cat. Lap grooming allows me to read the cat’s responses, work with them instead of against them and prioritize their safety.
What is one business shift you made that significantly improved your cat-only services?
Implementing clear business policies such as deposits, late fees, and cancellation guidelines made a major difference. Through my training, I learned to recognize that I provide a specialty service, and my business needed to reflect that. Establishing firm boundaries communicates the value of my time, training, and expertise to my clientele. Before this, I made the mistake of letting some clients slide, which led to lost income and unnecessary stress. Once I began charging appropriately for my services, everything improved: my scheduling, my earnings, and the respect clients have for my work and time.
What would you say to a groomer who is on the fence about investing in proper cat grooming education?
If you’re going to do something, do it right. The amount I invested in my education is a drop in the bucket compared to the income I’ve earned because of it. The training paid for itself quickly and gave me skills that are truly invaluable. Beyond the grooming techniques, you gain access to a supportive community of experienced, like‑minded cat groomers. If you want to deliver work you can genuinely be proud of and build a sustainable, respected business then proper education through NCGI is absolutely worth it.
Certified Feline Master Groomers don’t guess.
They groom with intention, education, and confidence.