Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim Kier.
Hi Kim, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, you could tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey with Little Barks Boutique & Grooming began amidst a pivotal moment. In 2012, my family made the heartfelt decision to relocate to Columbia, South Carolina, driven by the responsibility to care for my beloved mother-in-law following the passing of my father-in-law. It was a time marked by loss and the need for new beginnings. Little Barks Boutique had been my passion project since 2000, a dream nurtured over the years, but the uncertainty of our move left its future uncertain. However, fate intervened one day as I made my routine trip to the post office. Along Saint Andrews Road, nestled within the quaint retail section of “Shoppers Walk,” I caught sight of a sign – a retail space for lease. Despite its overgrown state and rough appearance, my mind’s eye envisioned its potential, complete with an adorable porch and a charming grassy area at the back.
After negotiations with the landlord, my family and I embarked on a journey to bring Little Barks Boutique & Grooming to South Carolina. We have ensued three years of dedication and hard work, marked by growth and a burgeoning community of pet lovers. Eventually, our success necessitated a move to a more prominent location a few miles up the road, where we expanded our services to include skin and coat care, grooming, and a retail dog boutique. The journey with Little Barks has been one of love, learning, and unwavering dedication. Every day, I connect with dogs and their devoted owners, each interaction infusing joy into my work. Of course, like any business, we faced challenges along the way. Yet, we weathered the storms through perseverance and a commitment to learning, emerging more robust and resilient.
In 6030, Saint Andrews, Little Barks Boutique flourished for five fulfilling years before transitioning exclusively online. Concurrently, Little Barks Grooming transformed, aligning with my dream of providing one-on-one grooming experiences focused on skin and coat care. I envisioned a serene, stress-free setting where dogs could bask in the spotlight and receive personalized spa treatments.
To equip myself with the necessary skills and knowledge, I pursued various certifications and diplomas, including Master Pet Aesthetician, Professional Grooming Credentials through the World Pet Association, Fear Free Certified Professional, Low-Stress Handling Certified Level Silver, and Certified Puppy Consultant. These accolades signify my commitment to excellence and reflect my insatiable passion for understanding and serving the dogs in my care.
Recently, I was recognized as the “Grooming Guru” by Pet Product News International for 2023, a testament to the dedication and expertise that underpins Little Barks Grooming & Boutique. As I reflect on this journey, I am grateful for the opportunity to turn my passion into a fulfilling vocation where every day feels like a labor of love rather than mere work.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Indeed, running Little Barks Boutique as a business hasn’t been challenging; we’ve encountered our fair share of challenges. Among the most significant hurdles have been navigating through the complexities brought about by COVID-19, weathering economic downturns, and battling moments of self-doubt.
The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic presented a unique set of challenges for our business. Suddenly, we were faced with the daunting task of adapting our operations to ensure both the safety of our clients and their beloved pets. Implementing contactless drop-offs and pickups became imperative, leading us to temporarily close the retail section of our shop to repurpose the space for this purpose. It was a tough decision, but one necessary to prioritize the well-being of everyone involved.
Despite our best efforts, the pandemic-induced changes took a toll on our business. With people increasingly turning to online shopping and grooming appointments becoming less frequent, we grappled with slower months and dwindling foot traffic. It was a stark reminder of the volatile nature of the business landscape, and at times, it felt like an uphill battle to keep our doors open.
During these challenging times, doubt crept in, and I questioned whether we could weather the storm. However, with faith and a commitment to staying connected with our loyal clients, we persevered. Offering special grooming packages and exploring creative solutions helped us stay afloat and maintain a sense of optimism amidst the uncertainty.
Looking back, those were undoubtedly some of the most challenging times we’ve faced as a business. Yet, through perseverance, innovation, and a steadfast belief in our mission, we emerged more potent and resilient than ever. While the road may not have been smooth, each obstacle we encountered was a valuable lesson, reminding us of adaptability, resilience, and unwavering determination. And despite the challenges, I am proud to say that Little Barks Boutique has survived and thrived, a testament to the steadfast support of our cherished clients.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might need to become more familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
Oh, sure, I’d be happy to share a bit about my professional journey with you! You know, it’s been quite the ride. I’ve always believed in giving my best to the dogs I serve and their loving owners. But you know what? It’s more than work for me; it’s a genuine passion. Every day, I feel incredibly fortunate to learn more about these fantastic furry companions we share our lives with. They bring so much joy and purpose into my life. And that’s what Little Barks is all about – it’s my joy and purpose rolled into one.
So, a little about me – I’m Kim Kier, the proud owner and groomer behind Little Barks Grooming & Boutique, nestled right here in Columbia, South Carolina. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate enough to earn a few credentials and certifications. You know, things like being a Master Pet Aesthetician, holding a Professional Grooming Credential from the World Pet Association, and being certified as a Master Groomer Behavior Specialist, Fear Free Professional, and Low-Stress Handling Certified at the Silver level. It’s all about ensuring I’m equipped to provide the best care possible to our furry friends.
I’ve been honored to have been named the “Grooming Guru” by Pet Product News International in 2023. Seeing my dedication to this craft recognized on such a prestigious platform was a surreal moment. But you know what means the most to me? It’s the love and support from our community right here in Columbia. Winning awards like the State’s Best in 2022 and 2023, being named the Best Groomer by Columbia Living Magazine for three years running, and even earning recognition as the Best Groomer in Irmo-Chapin – those accolades mean the world to me because they’re a reflection of the trust and confidence our clients have in us. So yeah, that’s a bit about my professional life – a journey filled with passion, purpose, and a lot of love for our four-legged friends. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Are any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
Regarding staying at the top of my game, I’m all about soaking up the latest insights and techniques in canine behavior and skin and coat care. Whether diving into a new case study or curling up on the couch with a good book, I’m always thinking about better serving my furry clients. But you know what’s genuinely my secret sauce? It’s staying connected with my faith and finding strength in prayer. Every day, I take a moment to thank God for the knowledge, blessings, and talents He’s given me to do what I love. Scripture has this incredible way of guiding me and giving me the strength to tackle whatever comes my way. And hey, shoutout to technology for making it even easier to stay connected with my faith! I love listening to the Bible as I groom and work, thanks to apps like Audible. It’s like having the word of God right there with me, keeping me grounded and inspired throughout the day. It’s a little thing, but it makes a big difference in helping me be the best version of myself at work and in life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.littlebarksboutique.com/
- Instagram: @little_barks_boutique
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/littlebarksboutiquesc
Image Credits
Pink Elephant Photography
