All American Grooming: All Lectures

(in the Birch Room)

BUILDING PROFITS WITH COMPUTERS 101
by Chuck Simons Friday, 8:25 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
	This lecture is aimed at new computer users and those who still need to get computerized. Having a computerized salon can boost profits and help your business stay on the cutting edge. Whether you are keeping accurate customer records, printing your daily work schedules, or building an online web presence, computers are a must-have item in today's modern workplace. Chuck will discuss the many ways a computer can help you, popular programs that will help you organize your daily operations, website design, and pet photography.

BUSINESS BASICS
by Daryl Conner Friday, 10:25 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
This lecture provides nuts-and-bolts information for those who are unfamiliar with the business end of grooming. We’ll take a practical peek at important issues such as: What type of insurance should a grooming business carry? What is the best way to set up your fee structure? How often should you raise your rates, and by how much? What is the best way to handle a dreaded pet injury? We’ll also talk about how to deal with the backbone of your business, your customers. Clear communication skills and the ability to set expectations are critical. This class will offer you some solid resources to improve the “business” side of your work.

EMPLOYEES-YOUR BIGGEST EXPENSE
by Michelle Feltz Friday, 1:25 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
	Can’t figure out how to best pay the stylists who work for you? Want to reduce turnover and keep an employee for years instead of months? This class will help you decide which payroll options work for your shop, be it salary, commission, or hourly. You do have options. Learn how to make it fair for the stylist, yet still make it profitable for you. Learn how to make your salon a group of team players rather than individuals out for themselves. Learn how to be a good employer. (This class is for employers, not for employees. We will not be getting into a discussion of why stylists deserve to be paid in a certain way.)

STRESS MANAGEMENT FOR PET CARE PAWFECTIONISTS
by Sam Hyer Friday, 3:55 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Managing stress; taking the BITE out of your day! Burnout in the companion care industry is a serious problem. Stress in our society as a whole, and our salons in particular, is at an all-time high. Be part of a lecture that shares tips and suggestions to make your day more relaxing and your life more satisfying. This is an interactive lecture that is informative and fun. You can bring your stress, but have your humor and smile in your pocket . . . you will need them. You may also bring your business card with you for a drawing for stress management CDs and stress-relief related gifts.

BUSINESS BUILDING TIPS FROM AN S.A.G.E.
by Chuck Simons Saturday, 8:25 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
	Meet Chuck Simons, a Salon and Grooming Expert (S.A.G.E.). With more than 20 years experience, Chuck will discuss the many methods he has used to build a thriving business. Learn how to charge what you are worth, add services that boost profits, and change your occasional customers to loyal regulars. Using plenty of real-life anecdotes and humor, Chuck will show you why groomers (yourself included) are the Champions of the Pet Care Industry.

THE SELF-SERVICE PHENOMENON
by Michelle Feltz Saturday, 10:25 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Have you reached an earning ceiling in your salon? Looking for ideas to make extra money without a lot of extra work? Consider adding self-service dog washing. This fast-growing, low-overhead service is a good way to add more income to your bottom line. We will also discuss retail options and adding a doggy bakery. Come prepared to learn how to make more money without grooming another dog!!!!

MAKE MORE MONEY
by Daryl Conner Saturday, 1:25 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
	How much money did you make last year? How much would you LIKE to make in the future? This seminar will show you how to figure out what you are REALLY earning and how to make more! Learn how the top shops make so much cash and how you can, too. Do you really know how much each square foot of your shop is costing you? What is the actual cost to your business for each dog you groom? If you know the truth of what your business costs you to run, you will better understand how to run your business profitably. Learn how to make add-on services and retail work in your favor. If you would like to increase your profits, don’t miss this class!

REFINING THE GOLD WITHIN
by Michelle Feltz Saturday, 3:55 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Recreate yourself and your shop by adding spa packages and upscale retail. Change the way the world views your salon. How to create spa packages, get a great new logo for almost nothing, recreate your reception area every month, effectively use reminder cards, find one-of-a-kind retail items, and effectively use the Internet─all are addressed in this lecture. Learn how yours can become the most sought-after pet spa in town.

SPA CONCEPTS
by Michelle Feltz Sunday, 8:25 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
	This innovative seminar discusses products and how to combine them into Spa Packages that will generate additional revenues. Understand the differences between conditioners and hot oil treatments, and learn how to use conditioners for deep conditioning hair treatments. Learn about aromatherapy and hydro-massage. Find out what products work best with bathing systems. Turn trimming nails into manicures. And then learn how to market these spa services! If you’d like to generate additional revenues, then don’t miss this lecture.

CONCEPT MARKETING
by Sam Hyer Sunday, 10:25 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
In this exciting, fast-paced, creative lecture, Sam will share with you a marketing blitz (campaign, program, business concept). Participants will each leave with a marketing gift package they can individualize for their business. Please bring your current brochure, business card, and sample of marketing items to share with Sam. This is one lecture you will not want to miss if you want to spice up your business and add excitement and PROFIT.

(in the Willow Room)

HOW TO BE A “GROOMER-ON-THE-GO”
by Kristen Fulton Friday, 8:55 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
	This lecture is perfect for the groomer who wants to be her own boss but doesn’t know how and/or doesn’t have the funds. We will cover ideas on how to get started, where to find your clients and how to be a success. Grooming-On-The-Go takes you into your clients’ homes and giving that one-on-one attention that generates higher client charges.

MOBILE GROOMING OR “PLAYING IN TRAFFIC WITH SCISSORS”
by Teri DiMarino Friday, 10:55 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
You've spent most of your grooming career within the four walls of your salon, never even thinking of mobile as a viable alternative to the daily rat-race of ringing phones, barking dogs, unpredictable employees, and complaining customers. "There HAS to be a better way!" becomes your mantra. Well you CAN have your cake and eat it too, because there IS a grooming life outside of the salon. After running a successful salon for nearly thirty years, Teri “hit the road” in Southern California in her custom “State Of The Arf” mobile grooming vehicle. These “salons on wheels” have their own set of advantages and obstacles and Teri will address many of them in her lecture. From booking appointments to knowing which dogs to refuse, Teri will fill in the blanks on the questions you may still have that are keeping you from venturing out into the streets. A great seminar for the newbie interested in small business ownership and a necessity for the burned-out salon owner seeking enlightenment and alternatives.

JOANNE’S “AHAS” FOR MOBILE GROOMERS
by Joanne Russell Friday, 1:55 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
	There are many concerns mobile groomers have which are different from salon styling . . . . Scheduling to best conserve both time and fuel. Dealing one-on-one with clients (pets and owners) in their own homes──much more intimate than in a shop. Working in a small confined area, so keeping tools and supplies compact and organized──even using equipment for more than one thing. What about the noise inside and outside the van? Joanne will discuss all of these and, as a bonus, offer exercises that can be done en route. After grooming for 45 years, 35 of them mobile, we think she’s “on the right track”, or should that be “on the right road”?!

GOING IT ALONE
by Kristen Fulton Friday, 4:25 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Although mobile groomers work alone, there are a lot of tips and tricks to make your business run smoothly, from handling difficult dogs on your own to being the secretary, groomer, and accountant all-in-one. Although you are in business for yourself, this will let you know that you are not by yourself!

YOU’LL KNOW YOU’RE A SUCCESS IN YOUR MOBILE OR SALON BUSINESS WHEN....
by Jay Scruggs Saturday, 8:55 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
	Your services are in demand at almost any cost; Customers stop asking about prices and start competing for appointment times; Your business runs more like a country club instead of a grooming business; You become known not as “the groomer” but as “my groomer”; Customers choose you regardless of price. In this lecture Jay will teach you his secrets and methods he used to become one of the most sought-after mobile groomers in the country. For shop owners and mobile alike, Jay will help you achieve the level of recognition and profitability appropriate for your community.

RI$ING GA$ PRICE$
by Sue Watson Saturday, 10:55 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Are you having trouble with the rising gas prices? All the rest of your supplies going up too? Don't know how you will cover these costs, and are you afraid to raise prices because you might lose clients? In this talk Sue will give you suggestions on how to cope plus you can share solutions with fellow attendees.

“IN AND OUT WITH STYLE, MILE AFTER MILE”
by Jodi Murphy Saturday, 1:55 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
	How long does it take you to groom a Golden Retriever? Am I taking too long at my stops? Why can't I groom as fast as you? Why does it take me so long to dry the dogs? These are all questions that Jodi hears all the time. This is your opportunity to learn how to get in and out of stops with style. Jodi will not only teach you shortcuts, but will discuss equipment, techniques, and trendy styles, so you can get in and out of your stops in a timely manner. Time is money. This is one seminar that you can't afford to miss.

HOW TO MAKE MOBILE WORK FOR YOU
by Kristen Fulton Saturday, 4:25 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
A collage of topics but the results are the same . . . How to make mobile work for you! From becoming a spa, to adding retail, pleasing the clients, getting new clients, giving yourself a raise, being your own billboard, and more. If you ever wondered “How do they . . . ?”, then this is the seminar for you. There will be time for questions and answers to help you make your mobile work for you!

PEOPLE SKILLS AND BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS
by Kristen Fulton Sunday, 8:55 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
	A first impression is everything and in a mobile operation that first impression happens on the phone. If your book is not full, you get a lot of “price-checkers” but no bookings, then listen to Kristen. This class will focus on how to spend your time wisely on the phone and get your questions answered. This will help you spend less time at the door and more time grooming and making money. Once your business has grown to where you need help, or you want to add another mobile, there are many options to consider if you want to be successful. Let Kristen show you how to cover a wider area of clients and help you make your pockets deeper. Ka-ching, ka-ching!

JOANNE’S HEALTHY GROOMING TIPS
by Joanne Russell Sunday, 10:55 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Having been grooming for 45 years, 35 of them mobile, Joanne seems to have found the secrets to success, health, and longevity in the industry she loves. She emphasizes the importance of caring for the pets, their owners, the environment, and, of course, yourself. Joanne will discuss whether or not (and how) to use dips, etc.; proper handling of pets’ legs, backs, skin, eyes, and ears; and problems and solutions for groomers related to breathing, stress, muscles, eyes, ears, backs, legs, feet, and hands. This “sparkly” extrovert still loves what she does, and it will rub off on you.

(in Lake Michigan Ballroom A)

GEOMETRY FOR GROOMERS
by Cheryl Russell-Miller Friday, 8:25 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
	You may have heard speakers talk about the angle of the shoulder, rear angulation, sloping toplines, and other topics relating to geometry. You may have attended a class where you were shown the appropriate angles for the breed at hand. However, many of us need a bridge to tie our artistic side to our mathematical side. Let Cheryl show you how to apply geometry to your grooming and use everyday tools and apply them on everyday dogs. Come and have an “aha” moment or two, while you learn to put math concepts to work to improve your grooming skills.

THE FOUNDATION OF GOOD GROOMING
by Karla Addington-Smith Friday, 10:25 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
The skills of the most talented, artistic groomer are in vain when applied to the poorly prepared dog. Maintenance grooming procedures are the foundation of good grooming and have direct impact on the comfort and well-being of any dog groomed. During this program, Karla will review eight maintenance grooming procedures and share tips for getting the most out of your tools based on coat type and technique. From brushing to ear cleaning to drying, you will learn how to "self test" each step of the way to ensure a thorough and high-quality preparation. Like a painter who prepares his canvas perfectly for the addition of color and design, only a perfectly prepared dog will serve the grooming artist well. You will be on your way to mastering the grooming basics after this hour program.

101 TIPS FOR REAL WORLD GROOMERS
by Daryl Conner Friday, 1:25 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
	A fast-paced class that literally contains 101 ideas to put to use in your daily business. Tricks of the trade gathered from the everyday experiences of small business operators to industry superstars. Richly illustrated with PowerPoint photographs to show the tips you will hear about, this class has received rave reviews from hundreds of stylists.

STRIPPING FOR BEGINNERS (NO DANCING REQUIRED!)
by Daryl Conner Friday, 3:55 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Do you ever wonder what hand stripping is all about? The art of stripping dogs is one that causes a lot of confusion, and it can be tricky to find answers about how and why to strip a coat. There is a demand for this skill even for groomers who only deal with house pets. Stripping can be fun, and it can help you build your client base and increase your income. Come spend an hour in a friendly environment where we will demystify the process so you can decide if you want to add this skill set to your bag of grooming tricks.

THE SCIENCE AND ART OF BATHING DOGS
by Karla Addington Smith Saturday, 8:25 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
	Put the dog in the tub and give it a bath; so easy a caveman could do it! But the reality is that bathing any dog well is a balance of science and art. In fact, bathing is the most important step of good grooming. Done incorrectly, bathing contributes to the matted dog cycle and can have long term damaging effect on the condition and health of the dog’s skin and coat. To provide optimum services, the groomer must master both the science and the art of bathing with an understanding of product formulations in addition to developing good bathing technique. Karla will share three steps to preventing the matted dog cycle and show you how to bathe more efficiently and effectively with better results.

PRIMER IN PREP WORK
by Cheryl Russell-Miller Saturday, 10:25 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
We often overlook prep work as “just a bath” and relegate it to the “easy” part of the groom. Find out why using different shampoos for different coats (even on the same breed) can change the overall finish of the groom. We will discuss how to fluff poodle-type coats to make your finish work better; how to HV long coats without tangling them; and how to use products to improve the look, feel and overall finish on each dog. Cheryl will discuss the use of bathing systems and shampoo applicators to improve productivity in your salon.

ANIMAL BEHAVIOR & MANAGEMENT ─ Part I
by Pam Lauritzen Saturday, 1:25 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
	(Dogs are from Pluto . . . People are from Earth.) Animals hear, see, smell, perceive, react, and learn in a distinctively different manner than humans. Canine personality types, basic reflexive behaviors, territorial boundaries, the laws of learning, the senses, social development, and environmental influences upon animal behavior are the focus of this comprehensive program directed towards a better understanding of canine behavior and their reactions to the stress and activities associated with a pet styling environment. If you would like to learn how to reduce the stress associated with handling uncooperative pets and how to promote and nurture “good dog behaviors”, then this lecture is a must! Animal Behavior & Management-part I is recommended prior to attending Part 2 of this series.

ANIMAL BEHAVIOR & MANAGEMENT ─ Part 2
by Pam Lauritzen Saturday, 3:55 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Note: Animal Behavior & Management─Part I is essential for a full understanding of this program. (This is a segment of Pam Lauritzen’s Canine Management Program.) Conditioning techniques, therapy programs designed for rehabilitation of problem behaviors, how to “talk to the animals”, fear biting and rage syndrome, phobic behaviors, client consultations, and much more, are featured during the second part of this outstanding presentation on animal behavior and management. If you would like to learn how to manage dogs that jerk their feet during trimming, scream when clipping nails, cleaning ears, or being handled, shake uncontrollably, transform (before your very eyes) from Dr. Jeckel to Mr. Hyde when placed in a cage, defecate or urinate when stressed, hug and cling to the table, bite unpredictably, bark incessantly, and/or are prone to hyper-excitability–then this lecture needs to be at the top of your must attend list!

KERRY BLUE PET TRIM
by Lisa Leady Sunday, 8:25 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
	Lisa will be doing a pet trim on a Kerry blue terrier.

DROP COATED MIXED BREED DEMONSTRATION
by Sue Zecco Sunday, 10:25 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
This will be a demonstration on a mixed breed.

(in Lake Michigan Ballroom B)

SNAP-ON COMBS
by Annette Quick Friday, 8:55 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
	Snap-on combs are one of the most versatile tools in the grooming salon. Annette wouldn't want to groom without them! They can save time and effort, reduce scissoring time, and let you achieve more attractive trims. She will discuss cutting lengths, blades to use under these combs, and techniques to improve the finished look. Annette will also discuss using these gems on breeds you might not normally consider as snap-on candidates! This lecture will include a live demo.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GROOMING CATS
by Danelle German Friday, 10:55 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Do you understand cat breed characteristics and ideal coat types? Are you aware that different breeds have distinctly different temperaments? Why are some pack-oriented and some aloof? Why do some long-haired breeds mat more easily than others? And how do you properly trim a cat to best resemble its breed? Understanding breed standards, temperament, coat characteristics, and color is the focus of this two-hour, in-depth and interactive presentation. Danelle will cover the basics of cat grooming from identifying temperament types and handling techniques to the necessity of cat grooming and how to determine coat types and the frequency with which they need to be conditioned and trimmed. This session includes a styling demonstration of a full-coated Persian cat, including the technically difficult face trim.

THE “OTHER” SPORTING BREEDS
by Annette Quick Friday, 3:25 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
	When Annette was competing, she needed a sporting dog to fill out her all-around status. She didn't have any American cockers in coat, so she turned to the "other" sporting breeds–the setters, English springers, and English cockers. The trims are very similar for these breeds. Annette will discuss the similarities and differences in profile and technique, and review tools and their usage, while grooming a setter. This lecture will include a live demo.

LIVE CAT DEMO – LION TRIM
by Danelle German Saturday, 8:55 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Danelle will perform a demonstration of a standard “lion cut” using the best tools for the job. It will also include application of nail caps and another demonstration of a breed specific face trim. This is a MUST-SEE for everyone interested in cat grooming!

HEALTH INSURANCE OPTIONS FOR THE PET CARE PROFESSIONAL
by Todd Shelly Saturday, 10:55 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
	There are a maze of health care options out there. What do you choose? Have you chosen to do nothing because of cost or lack of knowledge? That is a dangerous road that too many pet pros have chosen to their detriment. There are low cost options for the individual and small business owner. A few years ago Todd began studying health insurance options when he was self-employed and uninsured. Seeing the need for clear and concise information in the pet care industry, he met with numerous insurance professionals and spent hundreds of hours researching various insurance options. Todd presents unique, unbiased information from a consumer’s perspective, discussing the various options available, including their pros and cons, and cuts to the chase in helping you decide what type of health insurance is best for the individual and small business owner.

BUBBLY BICHONS Part I
by Julie Ostoski Saturday, 1:55 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Julie will show you how uncomplicated the Bichon body is and how to adapt it to a pet trim.

BUBBLY BICHONS Part II
by Julie Ostoski Saturday, 4:25 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
	Julie will take you step by step through the Bichon head and neck. She will devote this entire lecture to the Bichon head and neck so you can see just how easy it really can be.

HIGH-TICKET TOOLS
by Daryl Conner Sunday, 8:55 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Many groomers run their businesses on a shoestring . . . a pretty slender shoestring at that! Considering the purchase of tools such as bathing systems, vacuum systems, elevating tables, etc., seems out of the question. Yet these are the very tools that enable successful stylists to groom more efficiently and safely. This class is designed to help you decide which tools will work best in your business, and even show you how buying good equipment will help you make more money in the long run. From scissors to cage banks, get the lowdown on the best way to make good tools work for you.

LIVE CAT DEMO – SNAP-ON COMBS
by Danelle German Sunday, 10:55 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
	A demonstration of trimming cats using “snap-on” combs followed by a demonstration of a “lion trim” variation (creative grooming of the standard lion trim). Danelle feels her creative lion trim variation will enable pet stylists to satisfy some of the many requests they receive from their cat-owning clientele.