Episode #28

Erinn Loren

Episode Title:

From Bath Time to Boss Moves: Erinn Loren’s Journey with Doggo Den Grooming

 

Episode Description:

In this inspiring episode, host April Kemp sits down with Erinn Loren, the passionate and determined founder of Doggo Den Grooming in Williamsburg, Virginia. From working three jobs and bathing dogs at PetSmart to launching her own salon during the pandemic, Erinn's story is a masterclass in hustle, heart, and leadership.

Now with a growing team, an expanded salon, and big dreams for industry education reform, Erinn shares how she built a thriving business from scratch—one paw at a time. Tune in for real talk on entrepreneurship, community service, and why every step (and snip!) matters when you're chasing a dream.

Key Discussion Points:

  • [01:25] How Erinn discovered her passion while juggling three jobs

  • [02:40] Opening her first 500 sq. ft. salon solo and expanding years later

  • [03:07] Starting her LLC and learning from local mentors and fellow groomers

  • [04:22] The importance of industry education and Erinn’s pursuit of a Master Groomer certification

  • [05:34] Key milestone: hiring her first employee and building a team

  • [06:44] Community impact: monthly nail trim events and $20k+ in pet food donations

  • [08:37] How opening during the pandemic led to early success

  • [09:17] Using research and resilience to prove her business plan

  • [10:03] The moment she “made it”: expanding into a double-size space in 2024

  • [11:26] Creating a safe, stress-free space for pets and employees

  • [12:16] Managing tough days and tough customers with self-talk and empathy

  • [13:35] Advice for dreamers: small steps every day lead to big success

  • [14:23] Erinn’s favorite quote and the wisdom behind it

  • [15:10] Her husband’s support and working together behind the scenes

  • [15:53] How to get started in grooming—and why continuing education matters

  • [18:13] Out-of-the-box growth through Instagram, education, and kindness

  • [19:53] What makes Doggo Den different—and the power of leading with trust

Notable Quotes:

  • "If you haven't cried, your eyes can't be beautiful." – Sophia Loren (Erinn’s favorite quote)

  • “Every day I had a little goal. And eventually, all the little goals reached the end game.”

  • “This is my world. I set the standards here.”

  • “I don't have to be at my salon every day to know it's going to be okay.”

Takeaways:

  • A dream doesn't require perfection—it requires passion, persistence, and progress.

  • Building a business is about relationships: with your team, your community, and your customers.

  • Leadership is creating an environment where others can thrive, even when you step away.

  • Giving back through your business not only helps others—it fuels your mission.

  • Little daily steps lead to big results. Your dream is built one move at a time.

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://doggodengroom.wixsite.com/website
• Instagram: @erinns_doggos
• Facebook: Doggo Den Williamsburg
• Phone: 757-920-6426

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher
• Stay updated on new episodes: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/
• Email April: april@fanaticaldreamher.com

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