Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alessia Macri, owner of Dogpolitan, located in Woodbridge, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is an upscale dog grooming salon. My clientele is pups of all shapes, colors, and sizes! Their PAWrents are the inspiration for the adorable dog grooms we complete. To ensure the best experience during your pup’s visit, we use only high-quality products, keep our salon exceptionally clean, and offer unlimited TLC during the grooming process.
Tell us about yourself
I am the owner and head groomer at Dogpolitan. I have been working with animals for over a decade. I initially got involved in the industry during my high school co-op placement. After I graduated high school, I pursued my lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian. I attended the University of Guelph for my pre-med undergraduate degree, majoring in Animal Science. Throughout my university experience, I realized that my love and passion for grooming outweighed my desire to be in the medical field. I finished my grooming apprenticeship, and after working with one of the top Canadian groomers, I opened my own salon in Woodbridge.
My motivation is my love for my career. I love working with my hands; I have the opportunity to be creative in my work every day and, above all, work with dogs. Every day is completely different; there is a new set of clients and a new set of challenges to tackle, and being naturally competitive, I am always up for a challenge.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is loving what I do and being truly happy with my professional decisions. I am proud of the adaptability and flexibility in the structure of my business that has contributed to my success in the big city as well as during the hardships of the pandemic.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I hold my salon to high standards; I am a perfectionist and want to ensure my clients are always satisfied with my services. With that being said, finding another groomer to employ is one of the biggest challenges I face. I often struggle to find someone as dedicated and passionate as I am about dogs.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do your research and take your time before you jump in! Know exactly what the industry, context, and demand are like before you invest all your time and money into a new venture.
- Work, work, work! Once you’ve started a business, the hustle does not stop. The first two years of opening a new business are crucial
you need to be prepared to dedicate at least 50 hours a week to the company during that time. - Pursue what you’re passionate about! The efforts that go into running a business can become overwhelming; however, if you love what you do, you will find a way to overcome the challenges.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I wish the best of luck to any young or new entrepreneurs. Thank you to Subkit for considering my small business for this interview; it means a lot to the hard-working team at Dogpolitan and me.
Where can people find you and your business?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dogpolitan/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogpolitan/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Alessia-macri-b03186151/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.