Finding Confidence Through Grooming: Meet Grace Handel
Meet Paragon Certified Groom Tech Grace Handel! Based in Madison, Alabama, Grace found her passion for dog grooming while searching for a meaningful career path that combined her love for animals and creativity. Encouraged by her family to apply for a grooming position at Pet Supplies Plus, Grace quickly discovered that spending her days with dogs while expressing her artistic side was the perfect fit. Though she initially struggled with self-doubt, Grace found confidence through Paragon’s support and hands-on learning, ultimately earning her Certified Groom Tech title.
Her mentor, Kaiti Roberson, shares:
“Grace has taken every obstacle that’s been thrown at her and still perseveres and sends in her best work! She’s dedicated and takes all feedback with an admirable amount of positivity. No matter the situation, she makes it work to do her job and her coursework to the best of her ability.”
Why did you choose dog grooming as a career?
Growing up has been full of ups and downs. Being 20 years old and feeling stuck deciding a career path was hard. My family loves to shop at Pet Supplies Plus and encouraged me to apply for a grooming position. I decided to give it a shot because of my love for animals and passion for art. Dogs are such a blessing in life and to be able to spend time with them all day while exercising my creativity sounded perfect. I was nervous before starting Paragon due to self-doubt, but as soon as I started practicing and learning, I started to truly love my job. The support from Paragon gave me the courage to push through the doubt. I can’t wait for the next chapter in my life that includes such a joyful career.
What did you enjoy most during your coursework?
What I enjoyed most during my coursework was actually when I failed one of my submissions. I felt the doubt and fear of failure again. However, deciding to try again and succeed was such a proud moment in my life. I am so lucky to have an amazing mentor who is not only instructive but encouraging. This situation not only helped me move further into my career, but gave me a new perspective I can apply to my life as well.
Where can we see your work?
Since I am a new groomer, I have yet to promote my work to the public. My work is currently in my Paragon course, and I have kept progress photos for myself as I continue growing my skills.
What are your future goals?
My future goals are to become an exceptional groomer, especially when it comes to perfecting a haircut. My dream goal would be to provide dog hair dye services with creative and unique haircuts!
Any advice for aspiring groomers?
My advice to aspiring groomers is to keep trying and never give up. You are capable of anything you are passionate about. Never settle when you are destined to be the greatest version of you. Never let fear get in the way of your dreams.