(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.