Art Expressions By Pam

Labor of Love

2013-01-09T19:13:00.000-08:00

Time to update my journey!
https://www.facebook.com/cooldoggrooming


Cool Dog Grooming Studio, Crestview FL

I've been quite for a while, but things have made a huge turn around. After a big disappointment on my first lease and 3 months of renovation, just to close the doors because the County deemed the septic system not operational, I thought that was the end of my pursuit of ever owning my own grooming business. But, one day while driving around Crestview, I spotted a vacant location, and called the realtor next door. Well, as easy as 1,2.3 and a credit card, I was back on track! Oh My DOG, was I excited!

We painted for a few very long days, built some very cool tubs and opened the doors of my new business called Cool Dog Grooming Studio on December 10th. One month later, and I have some repeat business booked out for months. Art sales are up, since I have a studio room and many of my paintings decorate the space.

So, looks like I made it! Three years after becoming a professional artist, I am now a pet groomer too. I'd say this is a labor of love, where I'm loving every minute of it. Goals, are obtainable, you just have to keep moving forward. I really thought I had hit a brick wall, and the chips were down, pockets were empty, but with the love and support of my husband, and a huge base of friends praying for me and cheering me on, to not give up hope. It happened!

May you find your labor of love. It took me a long time to change career paths from Medical Office Management, but I am finally in love with my job!

Fund rasing to keep my grooming Stuido open

2012-10-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

raising funds to install new septic system to keep my groom shop open

My goal is to keep my grooming studio, here in Baker FL. I have rented and renovated, spent over 5,000 to get this place open. The septic system has failed inspection. Landlord cannot afford this repair on his own. I am penniless and need this business to avoid foreclosure on my home
For each $1,000 mark reached; one free pet
watercolor painted portrait will be donated back to one donation contributor.

The Power of Love

2012-10-03T14:55:00.001-07:00

I have worked many jobs, and some of them would be considered powerful jobs in the corporate world. I had the power to make my employer wealthy with my tenacity, and experience in billing and collections. But, I gave this all up to follow my passion for art and animals. Why you may ask, would I give up benefits, and a great paying job, where I had such power? Because, I didn't have the power to love. I worked long hours in my corporate office all alone. I grew restless and resentful and later depressed. So, I left the corporate world, to be able to express myself, to reach out and to love.

My last employer asked me why do you love your clients dogs so much? He told me that it was not wise to love so much, for if the pet dies, I would be depressed. But, I knew no boundaries for my love of animals. Each one was kissed, hugged, pampered. Some of my clients dogs did pass away, and they will be missed. But, it is better to of loved, and lost, then to never of loved at all.

I feel so blessed to of had the courage to follow my passion. I'm in the mist of renovating a building for
my very own grooming business. I can't wait to hang up the open sign, and love on all those dogs.
Walls will be filled with art and rooms with precious pets to groom.

Please never fear the loss of someone so much that you close your heart to love. For love is a very powerful thing. If you have lost a pet, and are grieving enough to say, I can never do this again. For now, grieve, then when you are ready your heart will heal your loss, and once you open yourself to new pets or people in your life you will love again and feel good again.

Please join me in my journey on Facebook for Cool Dog Grooming Studio
My FB page

Getting to Know You

2012-09-18T04:11:00.000-07:00

I'm up at 5:00 planning my day. The first thing I do is check my e-mail and my Facebook pages. I enjoy reading the posts of my friends and liking the photos and status lines. It is a nice way for me to feel connected with that big world of ours. Each day gives me the chance to get to know you, and for you to get to know me.

Even though I have not opened my new grooming studio, I am getting to know more people on my facebook page.Cool Dog Grooming Studio.
I have gained three new clients already and over 200 are talking about the page. So, between renovation time, I'm traveling to homes with house call grooming. This not only gives me some money to keep going on the renovations, and keep paying my new bills, it helps me to get to know you.

It is important for me to know my client, for if I know you, I have a better chance of providing a service that works for you. One of my major decisions is to keep my groom shop on a schedule of work hours. Many groomers that are self employed, groom the dogs scheduled that day, and go home. But, I will stay each day until closing time, so that my client base can trust that I will be there for them, when they need my services. Oh, there are plenty of things to do if there are not dogs to groom in the afternoon. Cleaning, marketing, painting. Painting you may ask? Yes! I am going to move my pet portrait business and several pieces of my work to Cool Dog Grooming Studio. Keeping it Cool! My Studio is something people are excited about. They want change, they want their dogs to be loved like family and have a wonderful experience. I have found that clients patronize from people they know and trust. During the next few months, I will get to know many more people, and in turn they will get to know me. This will be a win-win situation for each of us. Making my decisions on products and services more relevant to your needs.

Thank you for following my journey, be it here on my blog, or on Facebook, Google or LinkedIn.
I appreciate the opportunity to get to know you.

Pam Utton
Cool Dog Grooming Studio
1909 Highway 90 W, Baker FL

Having a COOL DAY!

2012-09-10T11:16:00.001-07:00

I'm having a fantastic day! I decided to take the day off from the renovation at my new lease for Cool Dog Grooming Studio in Baker FL -
My Grooming Studio FB Page

First appoinment of the day was a Westie for a bath. That started out all wags and grins. Then a call from a banker, I was eligible for some IRA money from my mangement position, that I gave up to become a dog groomer. Things were looking good for the day! Heck yea, I even washed windows. Then I received a check for art work sold at the Gallery Fiddly Bits and Tea in Fort Walton Beach.

Oh, gosh then there was more! I made the deadline, for an entry of Art Trends Artist of the year 2012!
Oh My DOG!! LOL

A new pet portrait order, and a new house call client for Monday grooming.

Even a shipment of ribbon came today. I guess I picked the right day to stay home.

I feel like singing the Age of Aquarius!
The 5th Demension Sings

She's Got the Lease, but does she have a plan?

2012-09-03T05:03:00.001-07:00

Cool Dog Grooming Studio FB page

Cool Dog Grooming Studio Web Page

Looks like I've made it! But, have I? Yes, finally the landlord met with me regarding the building on Highway 90W, 1909 in Baker. He handed me the keys and told me to put the electric, phone and water in my name Tuesday Sept 4th. He thought long and hard about the rental fee, so kept it low in expectations that I could go forth and prosper. I'm on cloud nine. But what, my boss takes no notice, advised I leave today? Yes mam, that is how it is. No groom shop wants you around if you are leaving to prosper on your own. I understand, but do I have a plan? Did you know 50% of small business fail within the first 2 years? Yes, scary isn't it! So, as I worked for the past 7 months, I listened, watched, learned from as many sources as I could. From friends, family, DVD's, books, groomers, and by daily experience. I took that small paycheck, and every week, I would build my inventory. In seven months, I didn't make a lot of money, but what I did make, I invested in my future. Spending thousands of dollars on the items I would need if I ever found that lease!

One of my friends on FB in a grooming group asked me, do you have a plan? Do you know the items you will need to set up shop and have a possibility of not failing?

I sent a reply back -

Thanks : yes I am taking a pretty large risk. I wanted a bank account, but w/my boss hiring a second groomer, my checks have been about 200 a week, so no money to save. Here is the up side. I own 2 grooming tables, a HV dryer. 2 Gal of Shampoo plus several 16 oz bottles, 5 doz towels, Two banners, can paint my sign. One clipper Vac, 9 cages, cleaning supplies, mop bucket, shop vac. Web Page and at least 10 links/ directory listings, FB page with over 90 people rooting for me. 2 clippers, 3 of every blade, 8 scissors, brushes, combs, several leads,3 nail clippers, polish, cologne, 3 dremels, several grooming loops, 2 tubs. Bows, Bandanas, Mirrors. Art for walls, Spa music, clock, decor'. Rubber mats, Four reception chairs, desk, lap top. A partridge and a pear tree! (just teasing) I've read several books. Have a business plan. marketing plan, Logo- Tshirts, business license, LLC. Have run a successful pet portrait business for over 3 years, hence the name Cool Dog Grooming Studio. I will paint portraits for extra income as my grooming business grows. And a kick ass husband that will help me paint the building and do maintenance and bathe on Saturday. This is only 6 miles from my home, high traffic count, close to huge housing developments, and no competition on this end of town. Plan for press release, continued marketing, Direct Mail marketing, meet and greet w/other business owners and Vets, join the chamber, have a grand opening. Open early, stay late, I won't just groom a dog or two and go home. I will sit all day, every day w/a walk ins welcome sign as thousands of cars pass by. Promote events in the paper on a quarterly basis, help rescues by giving back w/grooms Advertisement agency to do a video production. The building is a former hairdresser shop , so plumbing is there.

The business plan:

Add phone line, get wireless headset, add internet service

Check with zoning regarding signs

Keep current grooming position on Hamilton Bridge road while updating space for

pet grooming business. Installation of tub, cages, grooming room and drying room with

existing partitions. All work performed by my husband and myself. Once the grooming area is suitable for grooming, give one week notice and increase advertisements. Use local paper, Internet, Veterinarian , and meet and greet to local business owners. Join local Chamber, have ribbon cutting. Write press release. ( so the employment plan didn't work )

Existing inventory – All grooming supplies – tables, dryers, a few cages, tubs, PC and some retail. Approximate value $5,000.00 Art, bandanas, bows – Goal – cage free grooming, (use of hitching posts and play corral) Appointments five or six days a week 7 am to 5 pm – Open on Monday to capture clients other groom shops don’t due to being closed on Monday

Market on Facebook, make web page. Hand out brochures to local businesses.

Increase revenue with bath and go program.

Proven success marketing on Facebook for Pet Portrait business.

Long term Projection of grooms and baths per day will be ten at an average charge of 38.00.

38.00 x10 = $380.00 per day – Gross revenue per month 7,600.00 - Goal projection -

Experience – over 20 years as a business office manager, handing – Payroll, billing, staffing, collections. Degree in Business Management. Self employed in the Pet Industry

Since 2009

I will perform all services until I have a cash reserve of six months expense, then I will

hire a bather part time at 50.00 per day. All revenue will be put back into the business, drawing a minimal income for the first six months, to make sure all expenses are paid for, and there is a cash reserve for the slower months. When business is booked one month out and I can not keep up with demand, I will seek a second groomer, and pay 50% commission, and take out taxes, pay unemployment compensation.

During slower times, market heavy, work on sales of pet portraits, and sewing of custom

dog accessories.

So, yes, I have a plan, I have probably more grooming equipment than many groomers who have been in the business for much longer than I have. I graduated from grooming school last October, one year later I'm set to GO!

Live your dream, follow your passion, be humble and grateful for the things you have, and never become complacent and you will be sure to succeed!

You've Got to have Faith

2012-08-30T11:27:00.001-07:00

Months of looking, for a lease for my own groom shop. No return calls from realtors, many buildings would not allow a grooming business, many were too expensive. I was running out of options, had looked and called on so many, but nothing was right. But, as determined as I was, I was not willing to throw in the towel. What did I do? I prayed, for direction, for guidance on what to do next, what area to focus on since my search was so broad. The next day while traveling to the bank, I noticed a for RENT sign! Oh boy, in my home town, not fifty miles away. I did a 360, and stopped in. Sure enough, this hairdressing building was for lease! Sign just went up two hours prior. I thought this is it, my prayers are answered. WOW, just like that. I talked to Monika and the landlord showed up, he said, yes a grooming business sounds good. Lets talk later. A month later, waiting for that talk. Perhaps tomorrow will be the day. He is a very busy man, and he works on a handshake, so I will have faith that yes, this is the one. I've purchased cages, a tub, banners, towels. and more. This may be my ticket to a job I've dreamed of for a very long time. - Stay tuned for updates in the next few days and weeks. For when I can welcome you to Cool Dog Grooming Studio!

Cool Dog Grooming Studio, Facebook page

Poised to Succeed with Pet Grooming

2012-07-31T10:46:00.000-07:00

I have learned so much in the past few months on what I need to accomplish to set up my own groom shop. I've visited numerous groom shops, seen the best and the worst. I watched how my employer runs the groom shop I'm at, and watched business fall due to lack of personnel and marketing. Two groom shops have closed in our service area, so we should be booming. But, how will they find us and where will the new groomers come from? There is no web page, no Facebook presence, no direct mailers, no marketing efforts.

It takes more than a bather and a groomer to run a business. It takes excellent customer service, top notch products, and quality grooms, along with location, exposure and marketing.

So, since I've had so many days off due to lack of business, I used my time well. Looked at many leases, built web pages http://groomingatyourhome.weebly.com/ for my house call grooming. This door to door service is well received, and helps fill the financial gaps. I joined NWFnow.com https://www.facebook.com/NWFnow and they are advertising with a coupon code for me. It worked, I have a wonderful new client how helps me get web presence and encouragement. Business partnership and alliance is another key component of your success.

Hours were spent on adding my URL to grooming and map and phone directories. And in two days, I'm searchable. But, does this mean that my work is done, that I can sit back and wait for the phone to ring? No, there is product research, and getting ready to be on spot when the opportunity arises. I have my logo designed, banners, business cards ready for ordering once I have a location and phone number. No need in waiting for the last minute. Reduce the stress, and make the time when the time presents an opportunity. Many old time groomers say you have to be in business for someone else for twenty years before starting your own business. Heck, I'll be dead by then! After many days of no work, I made time to read more posts in groomer groups, learned more about SEO's and direct mail marketing.
Two things I learned was that a small start up can probably not afford good SEO web development on their own. Hubspot says if it costs less than 1,000 a month your value is probably not worth it. Yet, there are no worries. SEO is not an untouchable, it is quite do able given the time to post relevant information for Google to pick up and rank it.

The next step will be a LLC and my own URL to match the business name I end up with.

I don't want to sit on the front porch, I want to run with the big dogs. : D

Grooming in Crestview Florida, where I groom in your home or mine

2012-07-30T10:55:00.005-07:00

It has been a while since I blogged. So many wonderful things have happened. I am loving the dog grooming so much that I even groom at home or at your home on my days off. Providing house call grooming at your home or mine.
Visit my web page for examples and info

My goal is to find a lease and have a state of the art grooming facility. But for now, my clients are loving the individual attention in the privacy of their homes.

House Calls Dog Grooming, Crestview, Baker, FL,Holt, Mossy Head, Fort Walton Beach - Can groom at my home per request.
I will come to your home, groom your dog, bathe if you have a place to bathe, or I can groom without a bath.

Service includes
Clean ears, cut nails, groom with clippers and scissors
... Hours 7 Am to 3 Pm MONDAY only
Toy Breeds / mini $35.00 -45.00 - Sanitary only $25.00 (pads, privates, paws )
Med Breeds $50.00 -70.00 - Sanitary $35.00
Large Dogs $75.00 - 90.00 Sanitary $50.00
Taking out mats extra - will discuss if the dog needs to be shaved if mats are bad.

I bring all tools - table and clean up
850-537-9302

Your dog can be styled many different ways, to highlight his or her personality. At home your dog is not rushed, and we can create a one of a kind style if you do not want a shave down. Here in Florida, so many dogs are shaved down with one blade length, called a kennel cut. But, you don't have to have a one size fits all cut for your canine friend. Shorter bodies, longer leg fur, can be a nice alternative to a complete shave down. Your dog can be cool, and still have an individuality.

Groomer's Dream

2012-05-21T10:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, I made it as a groomer, and have a wonderful job where I can meet so many new people and pets each day. I am grooming an average of eight dogs a day, and loving every minute of it.

The next step in making the dream come true is to open my own grooming shop. This takes a lot
of research and planning. Finding the right location. Deciding to rent or purchase. I feel that a purchase is a better approach for me due to the low financing rates. Commercial or residential property now becomes the focus. Residential is cheaper, but more difficult to get approval for setting up a grooming establishment. I keep searching the listings from Gainesville to Pensacola Florida. When the time is right, there I will find that special spot.

I'm selling home made dog tags, bandanas, bows, photo pendants and pet portraits as I save for the down payment on my new groom shop. I will be adding a drop ship pet tag option for my clients as well. Facebook has applications for fund raisers and I have a fundraiser going to help me establish that down payment. With each 1,000 collected in donations one free pet portrait will be given away. This is a win win for each of us. People love to win, and they like to see others reach their goals.
Groomer Start Up Fundraiser, chance for free portrait

I still think of " Go big, or go home " . I don't want a shed groom room, a garage groom room or a basement, I want a professional setting and a well compensated staff. Top of the line products, beautiful surroundings and a wonderful sign with LED message board. I want the pets to feel loved and secure. A place they want to come back to time and time again.

It takes time

2012-02-23T13:06:00.000-08:00

Haven't blogged for a while, so thought now would be a good time for an update. As you already know I've been painting pet portraits for just over two years now, and the business is going great. No long waiting lists, but still quite busy. Usually when I complete one painting, there is another inquiry and commission request. But, with my painting style and price points, this just wasn't enough income to pay the house payment. So, I decided to add to my pet industry business by going to pet grooming school. I thought what a great combination to be able to see, feel and study the dogs while I groomed them. This would be a win win. My paintings would improve and my client list would grow. Little did I know, how hard it is to break into the grooming world in my area. Since the pet grooming school is close by, there are tons of groomers out there, and almost all grooming shops want and experienced groomer. For, they are in the business of making money off the groomers labor, so the faster the groomer is, the more each party makes. Yet, as a new groomer, speed is something most of us lack. There is no way I can groom ten dogs in less than eight hours. I can do four or five and at my rate of commission, I am making less than $200.00 a week. So, time will tell, whether or not the grooming will be a large enough supplemental income to pick up where painting income leaves off.

My ultimate goal is to have my own grooming art studio, and at that point if I can groom at least 3 dogs four days a week, I'll make ends meet quite nicely. But, as like with the painting business, you have to spend money to make money. Sometimes money you don't have. I'm selling furniture and art supplies to pay for grooming supplies. I'm spending over two times my weekly pay to get enough equipment. Heck the business made me provide my own hydraulic table! But, as I see it, I'll now have a grooming table and drying table when I open my own business. I provide door to door grooming on my days off from the shop.

I will not falter, I will not fail, I will continue to grow and learn from my journey. Sometimes financial success is a struggle. But without the struggle you won't appreciate it when you hit the big time.

Musings about discounts.

2012-01-25T11:04:00.000-08:00

I tend to give away a lot of art. I see it as a way to advertise and get my product in the hand of the consumer. This helps me build my business in the way of repeat sales and referrals. Some artists shy away from such practices thinking it cheapens their art. Others follow the same practice for it is better to spend money on clients than internet or print advertisement. For the product in the hand speaks volumes.

Yet, the consumer is always looking for a deal, a bargain. They want to make sure their money is well spent. Some spend a lot of money for they think that the price reflects the value, as in the old saying "you get what you pay for" Others think that if you produce more, you should give a discount. I agree, treat your loyal clients well, give them a special thank you, a discount or a small gift for the purchase. I've done that many times. Perhaps a Aceo as a thank you - or a card with my art or a photo pendant of the art. But, when it comes to volume discount I'm torn.

I muse on this concept. When I was employed outside the home, if I produced more, I wanted a larger wage for my production. If I worked over 40hrs per week, I expected more pay not less. I wanted that time and one half. So, why is it that clients and artist sometimes expect or give discounts for more work? If I work more than 40 hours producing the product why would there be less compensation? I'm not griping, for I love what I do, but I wonder why people expect more for less. I wonder if anyone who works in an office every told their boss. I worked harder, longer, yet more efficient to save you overhead, so you can pay me less this week. I think not !

Self employed people often work 60hrs a week or more to make ends meet doing what they love. They give discounts for loyal clients, and reap what they sow. Many live below poverty standards, yet people still think they are rolling in the money. I assure you that the only rolling I do is in my bed. But, as time progresses and skills improve, I plan to reap what I sow, and have some jingle in my pocket to show for it.

Having more with less

2012-01-23T06:11:00.000-08:00

It is a new year, people are talking about setting your goals, making your financial plan for your business. What is your plan? I plan to have more with less. Does that sound contradictory to you?
Is there really a way to have more with less? More what you may ask?

I plan to have more
money
artistic growth
personal growth

free time
enjoyment
health

Now, doesn't that sound like a good goal? But how does one have more with less? Here is my plan.

Sell the huge home and downsize to a tiny home. Build this 1,200 foot home myself, so I save more money and pocket more profit. Reduce my acreage from ten to five.

Grow my own food on the parcel of land, no need for ten acres because I'm no longer going to eat meat, so I don't need pasture to raise beef on. Again, saving money, and gaining health benefits from becoming a vegetarian and knowing that my food is organic.

I will gain artistic growth by building a studio and grooming salon, where I can work from home, giving me more time to create. This too creates a more positive cash flow with less. Less travel time, less money given back in percentages to the grooming salon and gallery, I become my own entity. So, I gain 40-55% of my income back.

Since I will be working at home, I can set my hours and make more money in less time, so that gives
me more time to purse other activities, like paddling down the Suwannee River, and taking photos.

Having more with less sounds pretty good to me? What do you think?

Be a dreamer, and make plans for dreams to come true. You have the power to change your life.

What makes me different from other artists?

2011-12-28T08:55:00.000-08:00

I once had an inquiry asking, why should I buy a pet portrait from you? Why are you different?
As we look at art history we can see that many great artists became famous by standing out in a crowd, coming up with a new idea, something different perhaps even weird. People are fascinated by new and different ways to express the world around them with art. I didn't get the sale, perhaps I'm not so different. How does one compare to others and say that they are different?

Once an artist told me perhaps it is because I don't think of my art as a job, that is why I'm different. But, for me art is a passion, it is part of my daily living, something that will never go away. I don't think of it as a job. I think of it as completion of my soul, a God given talent that comes fourth every minute of each day.

I create art to live, not to make a living, so maybe this is different? Yes, I need an income to survive, but I won't overprice my art to pay my bills. I will continue to seek alternative income to supplement my passion.

I price art for the masses, not for certain classes of people. The prices are refective of my skill level and number of hours it takes me to create. There is no false pretense that my work takes so very long to create that I have to raise prices. I lowered prices in 2011 due to the poor economy and gave
away more art than I can count. Does this make me different?

My sales are based on social networking, and showing my work in progress. I get to know my clients and they get to know me. I share daily, not just my art, but my soul - my personal being. Does this make me different?

When I paint a pet, I feel its energy, that love of animals guides my hand and eyes from my heart, I paint with the rhythm of my soul. Does this make me different?

I explore all mediums and include other services such as sewing and grooming for pets. Does this make me different?

To answer that inquiry, I told the client that I painted from my heart, and charged a reasonable price, and that my goal was that the painting would reflect the soul of the pet in the eyes. - I didn't get the sale, maybe she was looking for something much more different that what I had to offer. For, all I offer is my love of animals, my passion for art, my ability to communicate with the photo to render a cherished portrait.

cha - cha- cha changes

2011-12-15T19:41:00.000-08:00

changes David Bowie video

Happy Holidays - hope if you have had changes they have been positive.

I became a full time artist about nine months ago. And I found out that your previous year can not predict the future or present year. I did paint, and gained thousands on followers on my Facebook page. But, I did learn that one must adapt to changes. The economy is so bad in many places that I lowered my fees. I kept busy, but not enough to pay bills so I sought out supplemental income. Yet, with my management background finding a part time or lower paid job was almost impossible. I went to grooming school for my love of animals, and loved it, yet still not enough to land a job. Yes, fill in jobs, but making 40.00 a month was still not enough.

So as David Bowie says, time might change me, but I can't change time. After nine months I was running out of money and time. I prayed for help, and prayers were answered. I found two jobs in one week, so now I am working seven days a week and doing my art. For, art is in my soul and I will never quit. I love animals and will never stop grooming, but it may be a slower start than anticipated.

I know that I am always telling you how to achieve or set your goals for yourself and your business. But, I too have to let you know that sometimes your goals will not be met. But, that is not reason to give up. It may be just time to make a change. Sometimes there has to be plan B. I will continue to set goals and never let these changes set me back from the things that are most dear to me. My family, pets, and art are the most important. No matter what changes I make to adapt to life's pressures to make a sustainable income will not make me change my values and goals.

Gearing up for Holiday Sales!

2011-11-16T12:24:00.000-08:00

Gosh, did you know that even Oprah likes hand painted ornaments? It was one of her top favorite gift pics for this year. See her pics here. http://www.oprah.com/gift/Christmas-Ornaments?editors_pick_id=34314
Darn it, I should of thought about sending all my celebrity friends custom ornaments! LOL

This is my second year painting these ornaments and I have a variety styles, from flat, porcelain, round, hearts and more. What a wonderful keepsake to get a custom painted holiday ornament for your tree or display case. I'm running a special on the last hearts for only 23.00 each - sure beats the prices I've seen this year. In fact I've dropped all of my prices due to the economy. I can't see charging my friend's more when some don't have a job right now. See my ornaments here: Custom Pet Portrait Ornaments

And I've even set up my sewing machine! I'm offering the bandanna of the month club - for a 2.00 savings per bandanna with 3 free after the purchase of twelve. The are slip over the collar, reversible, washable bandannas. Made to order based on your dog's collar size and sex. Just added Holiday fabric .Check them out here: custom made pet bandannas

Next will be canine boutique clothes.

Happy Holidays to you and your family. May you have time to create something special this season.

Pet Bandana of the Month Club! Join now

2011-10-25T04:28:00.000-07:00

I've completed pet grooming school, ordered up fabric and ribbon, and spent all day yesterday sewing my first over the collar bandana collection.

I chose black- red and white for the first collection since I have a black, and a white dog, the colors appealed to me. This collection will be available via my FB page and at the new grooming salon.

So, perhaps I've come up with a little cottage industry to supplement my income, or just a fun additional hobby to add with my pet portraits.

The bandanas are made of two selections of fabrics sewn right sides together, then turned out and top stitched for a reversible, washable stylish accessory for your pet.

Club members will answer questions about their pet so each month they will receive a custom made bandana based on the answers to the questions. They will have the extra discount of free shipping, and once 12 bandanas have been purchased they will receive a bonus of three free! Think of how fun it will be to get your surprise monthly package for your beloved pet. Add 2.00 shipping per package for non club members.

Size Small - Measures 8 1/2" wide 5 1/2 inches down - fits 5 to 10" collar. (My Mini Schnauzers wear this size) $ 5.50

Size Medium - Measures 10 1/4 inch wide 7 1/4 " down, fits 11 - 16" collar $6.50

Size Large - Measured 12 inches wide 8 1/2 inches down, fits 17-21" collar $7.50

XL for the really large chested dogs measures 14 1/4 inch wide, and 10 1/2 inches long, fits 22" and above collar. $8.50

Sign up here: contact for your special offer and list of questions

A Butcher a Baker, a Candlestick Maker?

2011-10-20T04:32:00.000-07:00

Or is it an Artist, a Groomer, a Photographer? Yes, goals can be set and dreams can come true.
Please don't ever say no to your heart.

After almost twenty five years of being a manager, my heart was no longer in it. I was burned out stressed out and disenchanted with the medical profession. I had no song in my heart and depression and anxiety set in.

Hubby told me to start painting again two years ago. And I took his advise. This new hobby soon became a business, and the passion for art and animals grew. I worked daily creating pet portraits and occasionally some flowers. My anxiety and depression were eased by the process. I had focus. I was making people happy and helping animals. I was making some money, and donating much to causes. Life was good, my fan page grew larger than I had ever dreamed. I was sharing my passion, art and photography with the world. Making people happy along with myself. Each day with a new painting or photo to share. Creating smiles, mending hearts. I knew this was filling a void and I wanted more.

I told my husband I needed to help animals even more, I wanted to go to grooming school. Yet, I had left that management job to pursue my art and heal my soul. So, money was no longer jingling in my pocket. But, by a small miracle I was able to go to grooming school. There I learned that not only did I love every dog that I came in contact with, that they too could sense my kindness. They were calm, and let me groom them and love them. Each pet would get a hug a kind touch and a little encouragement. I'd tell them all after they were completed the groom they were show dogs. Yes, I know they couldn't understand that, but still who doesn't love a complement. The Pace Academy of Dog grooming promised each student that there were job opportunities and my instructor found me a job placement along with the others.

So, my journey has not ended. I'm about to start a new one, helping Rhonda from Lucky Dog and Spa & Boutique embark on her new business in Pace FL. There she will create a luxury retail and grooming spa. I will be able to keep on loving pets, perfecting my skills as a groomer. I will display some art, paint a mural and photograph pets. We may do creative grooming too. Why not? I'm a creative type, from canvas to pet, so much can be accomplished if your goals and heart meet in the middle.

Fall is in the Air, and my plans are everywhere!

2011-09-25T16:56:00.000-07:00

So, after going through several names for grooming, I decided on Grooming and Beyond

Pet Spa and Studio. Just a few more weeks and I'll be a certified pet groomer. I love every minute of it.

Hubby thinks he can build me my own studio if our home sells, at our next location. But, for now, I still need to make money. In the grooming business, you don't usually get paid per hour, you get paid a percentage of the work you do. I landed a job on the weekend as a bather, but when I got there they decided not to let me bathe, but to groom one dog, to see my work. So, I groomed one dog, drove 70 miles hung out for a few hrs and made 13.00. Well, that just isn't going to help me get that $1,000 grooming table and clipper vac machine! Ha, setting up my own shop will take about $20,000 to build and furnish w/equipment and tub.

So, what is a girl to do? Start my business w/what I've got! A girl can make money if she wants to. So, I advertised in all the local classified papers, and on Facebook. Grooming, home visits. I have a fold up table, and a box full of clippers, and such and a good car. So, hopefully, I can start to build a client base and get 100% of the groom with less travel. Then start saving for the Spa. The goal is to have a grooming area, art studio and photography studio in one building, work 3 days a week at grooming and the rest for my art. Grooming is very demanding work on the body. But, I'm building strength each day, and no matter how hard it is, I enjoy it so much more than pushing papers. Yes, I know there will be plenty of paperwork for my business, but at least it will be mine and the paperwork will be more rewarding. Keeping good records is essential. Gosh, why did I sell that Quick Books program! - Oh well, I can get another one. I have plenty of basic accounting skills from college and jobs I've had over the past many years.

Creative Blessings

2011-09-10T10:46:00.000-07:00

I feel so blessed. I left my job about 6 months ago to pursue my artistic talents and dreams. I thought for sure I could land a part time job no problem. Boy, was I wrong, I searched and searched, applied for every job that I could find. But, nothing. My bills were stacking up, my husband was scared. Pet portraits sales were slow. But, I knew in my heart that this is what I needed to do. I wanted to be healthy and happy.

My love of dogs is so strong, I wanted to do more, just painting them wasn't enough. I needed to see them, be with them bond with them. So, turning a negative financial situation around, I applied for Federal assistance for job training. After five months the application was accepted. Off to dog grooming school I went. I have been at it for two weeks. And I can tell you that this time I spend grooming dogs has been the most rewarding work I have ever done. I went to college for Business Management and have had several high profile administrative jobs for hospitals but none gave me the satisfaction that working with animals does.

My goal is to add a grooming / art studio to my next home. Offering quality grooming, photography pet portraits and of course my art. Watercolor and acrylic paintings and pet portraits. I intend to live the rest of my life helping animals and doing the things I love, not working for some corporation.

This journey has come so far, yet I feel like is is just about to begin. I'm so excited!

Thank you for following my journey with me. I do dream big. There is no harm in being a dreamer. Close your eyes and dream, see what you can come up with. You will not be disappointed if you follow your dream.

Finding "Your" Market

2011-08-26T15:35:00.000-07:00

Steve from Artist pay check summed it up. Each artist has to find his or her "market".
The sale of art has nothing to do with the economy or the market. It is all about each artist reaching out and seeking his or her market.

Some pet portrait artists paint every hair, some paint with zest and flair, I tend to throw my marbles everywhere. Exploring different styles and surfaces to paint on.

Why do I do this? Well, I'm not an artist that wants to be famous for one unique style. I have a diverse clientele. Some may want a watercolor and an acrylic, maybe even graphite or pen and ink. So I give them options. My business is Art Expressions By Pam. My goal is to create expressions of happiness for me, and the pet lover by sharing my different styles based on their requests. So, you can say my niche is in expressions.

So, if you have not found your market with the internet, or your local gallery, perhaps you need to show them a few more offerings and be persistent. For the art collector wants to know that you are here to stay, no mater what the style is of the day . There is a market for you and for me, the world of buyers is huge, now go find your market!

Who's Starving?

2011-08-12T11:37:00.000-07:00

So, as I progress, and read about being a successful artist, there are so many rules.

Don't let them know you are starving,
act starving and they will make sure you starve.
Dress the part
Charge according to your skill
People think if it is high prices there was more effort or skill or more value, keep your prices in line with success.
Act successful and success will follow

Gosh, I thought art was about expression. About the love of creating. I've done that whole corporate thing for years, and frankly I'm a bit turned off with the fake people I've met in the corporate world.

So, if I want to paint naked, have no food and drop my prices - Well, I don't really care. I don't fit in
with the social norm of being a successful artist. But, I am not starving, I'm filled with compassion for
animals, for people, and I do what I can to help. I will do what it takes to paint every day until I can no longer grasp a brush, and that brings me richness that money can't buy.

So before you put on your makeup, your mark up, and become a success, first define what that means to you,--- to your soul. To me it means - being who I am, and expressing it with photography, paint and laughter, not with a vision of who I am supposed to be defined by someone other than myself.

Just saying - live - love - laugh - life is short. Enjoy.

Hold On To Your Dreams

2011-08-11T03:32:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite songs.

Several months ago, I had a dream to move forward in a more creative way. I left a high paying job to explore my artistic side. It hasn't been easy, for summer is slow for my art sales, and money was so tight. I wasn't sure how I could hold on. I was searching for part time jobs to fill the gap. But, after over 20 years of management experience, finding an entry level job was impossible.

I wasn't about to give up and go back to a job that I hated. I had lived a stressful life for long enough. I knew I could do more. I still painted every day, to improve my skills and to keep my Facebook page active. For no one wants to purchase art from an artist who isn't creating new work. My page grew in numbers month after month, and I painted and showed and found other places that would take my art to sell for me. Yet, I knew that after painting for less than two years I could not even come close to making
the $40,000 per year that I was making. Hell, I was losing money. Yet, I still had that dream. I have always wanted to be self employed. And I am still determined to hold on.

I applied for Vocational Rehabilitation to change career paths. I needed to be creative. After four months, they approved my application and I will be going to dog grooming school. I went to cosmetology school as a young woman, and have been cutting hair and grooming my dogs ever since. My connection with animals is so strong, and my creative abilities are so natural. I was cutting my own hair since the age of fourteen.

So, listen to my song, and don't give up. For if you continue to pursue your dream, it can happen.
It is happening for me.

Gone Local - Crestview Florida - Fort Walton Beach FL

2011-08-02T10:20:00.000-07:00

Things are looking pretty good for my ornaments and art work at the new shop in Fort Walton Beach called Fiddly Bits and Tea. They sold one of my paintings before the grand opening and are taking orders for the beach theme glass ornaments.

Tomorrow, I'll be dropping in at the bakery in Crestview. The name of the business is Not Just Cakes.
Located on 290 North Main Steet in Crestivew. They rotate out a few artists and the next spot is going to be available shortly. I will let them take a look at my swan, hibiscus and banana leaves. I think they would be a good fit for the cafe.

I'm proud to help my local shops dress up the walls with afordable local art.

Still very excited about the Charity book too. I have received so much support and some fantastic photos of positive pit bulls. After my meetings in the morning, I will be working on another lovely pit. This time in color pencil.

you can see some of my art prints here - Offereing cards and prints of some of my favorite photography.
My Art Web Page - prints- cards sold here

Art - is where the heart is.

I'll Share on FB, will you?

2011-07-30T17:19:00.000-07:00

So many professionals have left Facebook because photos are easily downloaded, and shared. There is fear of art being stolen, and used for profit. So, they leave, delete the albums and go elsewhere. But, FB still holds the information in their database. Anything you put in or on the internet can be used for your good or against you in a court of law. So, be careful what you post, write, share.

That said, FB is designed to be a social network, so they make it easy to download and share. Am I going to leave? Heck no. One must measure the outcome vs the benefits. My photos that I upload are low resolution, and I allow people on FB and Flicker creative common license. They can use my photos for screen savers, to create art from and to share. Why would I be okay with this? Because I create and share because it makes me happy and makes others happy. Do I think my stuff has no value? No, I think my photos and paintings are priceless. There is no monetary value you can measure for appreciation, beauty or happiness.

Can people steal my photos? Perhaps, but the quality printed would be substandard, and it isn't like my prints are selling like crazy. Do, I make prints available? Yes, but mostly for exposure, so that more people can see my art.

Do I want to be able to make a living on my artistic abilities? You betch ya. Will I? Perhaps not. Yet, if there was no FB, there would be no journey. I would not of sold any art, would not of made people smile. The potential social media provides is for opportunities is tremendous. Creating art and sharing my journey is therapy, for without purpose I may not have the desire to succeed. I create because it comes from my soul, bubbling forth and I can not stop it. This is what being an artist means to me. No, I may not make a living from it, but it keeps me among the living.

So, if you have something to share and sell; think, do I need this platform or not? Is it worth the risk? Can facebook or random people actually download my photography and make $$$$$ with them? Is my privacy of my work worth the denial of social networking, because I already have a large enough audience and abundant sales?