Rising Star and Groom Tech Grad: Home Dog Groomer Makes It Official
Meet Rising Star and Paragon Certified Professional Groom Tech Kai Postell of Pet Supplies Plus in Powell, Ohio! Kai is an incredible student, and we’re so glad she’s turning her home dog grooming into a promising career! Her work has been excellent, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
Just ask Kai’s mentor Jen McCarthy, who shares, “She has been such a pleasure to work with! She is responsive and communicative. She asks questions when needed and applies feedback when given. She is enthusiastic and dedicated to being the best groomer she can be. She also got fantastic grades through the whole program on coursework and photo submission tests. So proud of her!”
Why did you choose dog grooming as a career?
I had been working with dogs since 2018, but it wasn’t until 2022, after getting my standard poodle, that I developed a real interest in grooming. She became my guinea pig and canvas as we learned the ropes together. A year (and many experimental haircuts) later, I began bathing full-time in a one-on-one salon. I learned SO much—most importantly, that I wanted to keep learning and do this for as long as I can. I continued grooming my own dogs at home as I built my skills over the next year.
We ended up suddenly moving across the country, but I carried that same passion and determination with me. Thankfully, that led me to Paragon!
What did you enjoy most during your coursework?
I loved challenging myself to produce better and better work! It was so satisfying to look back at my before and after pictures.
Where can we see your work?
I occasionally post on my dogs’ Insta page: @one_steppe_closer
What are your future goals?
I hope to find my own style, experiment more with creative grooms, attend tons of competitions and seminars, and eventually purchase and groom my own conformation dog!
Any advice for aspiring groomers?
Keep an open mind and always look to further what you know!