One Community Capital borrower’s next steps in success.
Five years ago with Community Capital assistance, Talia Smith opened The Grooming Shoppe in Richmond, offering locally-owned dog grooming to area residents. She notes that many residents were using chain stores for their grooming needs and were not receiving the customer service they deserved. Specializing in grooming services for large breeds and dogs who are arthritic or older, Talia aimed to create a small, intimate environment where customers felt comfortable leaving their pets in her care. Five years later, Talia loves doing business in her small town: “I have met so many wonderful people in my town, and cultivated relationships with neighbors (and their pets!) that I otherwise never would have been able to have.”
When Talia talks about her business, she says that Community Capital was instrumental in helping her get her start. “I had virtually no start-up capital yet needed to do an extensive renovation on my space and purchase equipment. I knew it would be difficult, if not impossible, to receive financing through at a conventional bank. The loan I received from Community Capital allowed me to renovate a functional, beautiful grooming space, and pay for the necessary equipment to get my doors open. Working with Community Capital also connected me to a wonderful network of knowledgeable business people in the area. When I have questions about business ownership or need advice, I know I can reach out to them for guidance. I am forever grateful for being a part of the Community Capital family and for their faith in me and my business plan! I could not have done it without them!”
The Grooming Shoppe is lucky enough to be operating at capacity five years after opening. Recently Talia has been weighing the pros and cons of growing her business: hiring more employees and acquiring a bigger space v. staying small and growing her business in other ways. She is passionate about the level of intimacy she is able to provide in a small shop, and worries that in a larger setting, the quality of service will go down. Currently Talia is inclined to stay small, increase her margins and focus on continuing to raise her level of service.
As Talia Smith contemplates The Grooming Shoppe’s next steps, Community Capital is proud to have been a part of her journey.. We can’t wait to see where Talia goes from here!