From Beginners to Open: Real Talk About Grooming Competitions

In this episode of The Pet Groomers Community Podcast, Jo Wallace sits down with award-winning groomers Jordan Fletcher of Diamonds in the Rough Pet Spa and Jo Tofts of Happy Hounds Dog Spa to talk all things grooming competitions.If you’ve ever considered entering a competition but felt intimidated, this conversation offers an honest and refreshing look at what it’s really like. The girls share how they got started, what the different classes actually mean, and how the journey from beginner to Open level really feels. They talk openly about the nerves, the pressure, the mistakes, and the moments where things don’t go to plan, including everything from forgotten tails to competition-day disasters.They also explore the difference between show ring grooming and competition grooming, explaining why precision, finish and presentation matter so much in the competition ring, and how learning structure and conformation can completely change the way you approach a groom. For those wondering whether you need your own dog to compete, they share practical insight into coat maintenance, prep work and the realities of balancing pet clients with competition ambitions.Beyond the rosettes, this episode highlights something even more important: community. Both Jordan and Jo speak passionately about how competing helped them build friendships, develop confidence, and grow not just as groomers but as professionals. The message throughout is clear: competing isn’t just about winning. It’s about learning, pushing yourself, finding your style, and surrounding yourself with people who raise your standards.There’s also plenty of laughter along the way, touching on pricing, salon life, show schedules, exotic animals, and a few stories that perfectly capture the chaos and camaraderie of the grooming world.If you’re thinking about stepping into the competition ring, their advice is simple: just go for it.If you have any comments, feedback or a funny story, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Please make sure you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review to help others find our podcast.As always, we are grateful to our show sponsor, Pet Passion To Profit. A business coaching company for pet groomers. Find out more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.petpassiontoprofit.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠