After 20 years of working in local government and then raising a family, Margy Ingram from Wauchope was cutting down trees on the family property when she was inspired to pursue a business venture focussed on her true passion – loving and caring for animals.

In October 2021 she established Paws Zn Around, a dog grooming business, and thanks to some help from VERTO’s Self-Employment Assistance team, her passion has turned into a thriving and ‘paw-some’ business.

Margy’s journey to becoming a dog groomer began when she spent years grooming horses for competitions on the Mid North Coast. This opened the door to an opportunity to work for a local dog groomer in 2018. It was here she started to handle and care for dogs every day, while also undertaking training through Enterprise and Training Company to add nationally recognised qualifications and knowledge to her on-the-job experience.

The training confirmed Margy’s love for the industry, and she knew it was time to start her own business. Armed with determination and the luxury of having a spacious property, Margy set about converting a horse stable into her grooming salon.

Margy then turned to VERTO Self-Employment Assistance Team Leader, Kim Hastings, for guidance.

“Margy had created a business plan outlining what needed to be done, and we helped her set up a business strategy, with marketing, socials and we outsourced logo creation,” Ms Hastings said.

“She was blessed with the help of many former and successful business mentors, and family support coupled with her strong character and determination to make this work were all contributing factors to her success.”

After officially launching her business in October 2021, clients started contacting Margy immediately.

“I attributed the influx of customers due to Instagram and Facebook advertising, along with referrals from family and friends, but my ongoing success is because of the care and attention I pay to the animals, as well as the fact I use high quality products for cleaning and grooming,” Margy said.

Margy has faced several challenges in her business startup, but her main obstacle was overcoming her nerves after investing an estimated $10,000 on a hydro bath, and cutting and cleaning equipment.

“My advice for anyone looking to go into a business is to make sure you provide what people need and not what they want. If people need your service, you are on the right path,” she said.

“Also, get a business coach that can provide advice and access to important services. The service and help that has been provided by Kim and VERTO has been invaluable.”

For more information about VERTO’s Self-Employment Assistance program, which helps aspiring business owners, visit www.verto.org.au. To see some of Margy’s fantastic work, click here.