04/28/2026
DDD was closed this past weekend so Heston and I could try our hand at competition grooming again; at StL Groomfest 2026 in Washington, Mo.; it’s been 7 years. This is my first time competing with him even though I’ve groomed him for 4 years prior for dog shows.
Well, we didn’t do well. I ran out of time but did get him completed. I went in with too much back coat.
Heston was well behaved considering the table is his least favorite; he’d rather be in the ring. Ya know, he gets treats. 🙄😃🤭
He was well received by everyone including his judges. I got some great critique from Madeline Rothwell, his Sporting Judge and from my dear friend and mentor Lisa Leady.
Now on to my friend Niki. Her Mom was the owner of the Missouri School of Dog Grooming back in the 80’s and 90’s. I graduated in the early 90’s from there.
Niki is AMAZING. She does Fast Cat with her Standard Poodles. She specializes in Bichon Frise, Poodles, and learning to excel in English Cocker Spaniels. She’s EXTREMELY creative as well with color and design.
She won FIRST PLACE in Abstract Runway! I’m so proud of her and honored to be her friend. We learn alot from each other. She is EXTREMELY talented and makes me look like a beginner!
Here are some pics from StL Groomfest 2026, in Washington, Mo. Right in my own backyard!
Next week, Heston and I are off to Purina Farms to learn from the WORLD’S NUMBER ONE ENGLISH COCKER GROOMER! I CANNOT WAIT for Nadia Bongelli from Canada Groom Team to get her hands on my dog. What a blessing and an honor. She personasly invited Heston and I to the English Cocker Spaniel National Specialty and to hang out AND GROOM WITH HER! I think I just died. What a dream come true! I know I’ll cry. 🤭🙄🤦🏼♀️
Here are some pics of my mentor Nadia Bongelli and her English Cocker Spaniels.
Enjoy and wish us luck! 🍀
Please look at them all. These ladies are AMAZINGLY TALENTED! 🏆