We had the good fortune of connecting with Grace Fortun and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Grace, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Previously, I was a manager at my grooming salon. I was working 10 hour days, 5 days a week, then coming home to my second job: being a mom. I had no time for myself and was always tired. Once I started grooming, I found my self working a maximum of 6 hours a day freeing up my time to spend with family and travel. I now have a great work/hom balance with my new career and love every second of it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I believe my style of grooming if very unique to my area. I worked my butt of everyday at my shop and am continually learning things everyday from my peers to perfect my craft. It’s has been challenging but I made it a point to watch tutorial videos and read books on my craft for tips and different techniques. I also offered “free grooming sessions” so I could practice on my days off with my friends dogs and like they say. “Practice makes perfect”

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well being in Miami, I would definitely take my friends to the beach and for a nice cruise on my jetski around the bay. And for food, forget about it. Miami has some of the best restaraunts I’ve ever been to. I would probably do breakfast/brunch at Bistro Cafe in downtown, theirs food and drink menu are out of this world. For lunch, something light like Coyo Taco in Wynwood or Sakaya Kitchen in Midtown. And the dinner options are endless. Boulud Sud at the J.W Marriot Marquis is amazing for Mediterranean food.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My grandmother always pushed me and praised my work. She would always tell me, “You can do this , Grace. You have the talent to make this your full time job!” With that encouragement I found the strength to put myself out there and start grooming on a professional level. I’m so happy she got to see my work flourish before she passed away and I know she was proud of what I was building.

Instagram: @groomingsbygrace

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