Groom Studio has brought a new level of high-end dog grooming services to Vidor, Texas. Owned by business partners Buck Hebb and Shaina Lafleur, the studio provides a full range of grooming and bathing services for dog owners.

Shaina has been a professional dog groomer for 14 years. She served as the lead groomer at Dirty Paws, Vidor’s former grooming salon, and previously worked with Buck at his first grooming business. Shaina’s skill and reputation have earned her a loyal following, with many of her clients having already transitioned to Groom Studio.

“We still had all of our clientele, and I wanted to continue grooming for them,” Shaina said. “Buck also wanted to get back into the industry, so it was a perfect opportunity for both of us.”

Shaina’s talents extend beyond standard grooming. She is more than halfway through earning her Master Groomer certification, which will make her the only certified Master Groomer in Southeast Texas. Her artistic grooming skills even include the ability to dye dogs to look like other animals. A dog enthusiast at heart, Shaina also participates in dog shows, dock diving, bite work, and grooming competitions with her three purebred dogs.

Shaina and Buck decided to team up after the closure of Dirty Paws created a gap in the local market. The decision to open Groom Studio was motivated by their shared commitment to providing high-quality grooming services while avoiding the operational demands of boarding and daycare.

Starting a new business is no small task, but Buck and Shaina received support from the Lending Team at Communities Unlimited (CU). They worked closely with CU Senior Economic Development Loan Officer Chris Ranniger to secure funding, with backing from the T.L.L. Temple Foundation. The loan covered essential equipment, leasehold improvements, and start-up expenses. With money set aside for working capital, Groom Studio has positioned itself to succeed from day one.

CU’s loan enabled the purchase of grooming tables, high-velocity dryers, bathing tubs, and cabinetry, as well as leasehold improvements to create a polished, professional space. For Shaina, the experience with CU not only eliminated much of the stress associated with starting a business but also inspired her to recommend their services to others.

“You really set us up for success,” Shaina said. “I’m even encouraging a friend of mine — a groomer who wants to open a business in a neighboring city — to go through the small business department and work with you as well.”

The business is located in a strip mall that benefits from steady foot traffic and visibility along one of the area’s busiest highways. The 1,500-square-foot space has been designed to meet the needs of both dogs and their owners, featuring a reception area, grooming stations, a bathing and drying room, and a kennel room.

Groom Studio had its grand opening on Sept. 28, 2024.