Seminars | MASTERGROOM CANADA

MASTERGROOM CANADA 2026 – SEMINAR SCHEDULE & DESCRIPTIONS

Westerner Park, Red Deer, Alberta
July 24–26, 2026

FRIDAY – July 24, 2026

9:00–10:30 AM (1.5 hours)

The Business Side of Grooming: Finding Your Path, Your People & Your Power
with Nathan Austin & Kathlena Austin

Join industry powerhouses Nathan & Kathlena Austin for an energizing, straight-talk session on building a grooming career—and business—that truly works for you. Whether you’re a salon owner, team leader, mobile groomer, or just starting out, this seminar dives into the human side of our industry and how to thrive in any environment.

You’ll learn how to:

Lead with confidence, calm, and clarity—even on the wild days
Communicate with clients in ways that build trust, loyalty, and repeat business
Navigate salon dynamics, teamwork, boundaries, expectations, and culture
Understand different career paths and why there is no one right way
Keep the comfort and safety of every dog at the centre of every decision
Grow sustainably while protecting your passion for grooming

This session is empowering, honest, and deeply relatable—perfect for groomers who want success and longevity in this industry.

11:00 AM–12:30 PM (1.5 hours)

You See It First: A Vet’s Insight for Groomers
with Dr. Maryam

Groomers are often the first to notice when something doesn’t look, feel, or seem quite right. Knowing what’s normal, what’s concerning, and when to involve a veterinarian can make all the difference for a dog’s safety and wellbeing.

In this collaborative, groomer-focused seminar, Dr. Maryam brings the veterinary perspective directly into the grooming salon. Together, we’ll explore common situations groomers encounter every day—from skin and ear concerns to stress responses, physical changes, and unexpected findings—and discuss how veterinarians assess risk, urgency, and next steps.

This seminar will cover:

Common issues groomers see and how veterinarians interpret them
What warrants monitoring versus a same-day veterinary visit
How to communicate concerns clearly and professionally with pet parents
Building stronger, more respectful groomer–veterinarian relationships
Supporting dog safety, comfort, and trust through informed decision-making

This seminar is not about diagnosing. It’s about awareness, communication, and teamwork.

2:00–4:00 PM (2 hours)

Asian Fusion Magic: Adding Colour, Style & That “Something Extra”
with Isabella Doblas Jones & Colin Taylor

Step into the playful, polished, and wildly creative world of Asian Fusion grooming with two of the most entertaining speakers in our industry.

Known for their impeccable technique, infectious energy, and ability to make learning feel like a celebration, Isabella and Colin will show you how Asian Fusion styling can elevate everyday salon grooms into unforgettable, client-loving works of art.

In this extended 2-hour seminar, you’ll learn how to:

Create soft lines, expressive faces, and balanced silhouettes
Add subtle, safe pops of colour without committing to a full creative groom
Use bows, accessories, and finishing details to enhance—not overpower—the groom
Inject fun, flair, and individuality while keeping trims wearable and practical
Stand out in your local market by offering something just a little bit magical

Expect technique, laughter, real-world salon application, and plenty of “ohhh I want to try that” moments.

SATURDAY – July 25, 2026

9:00–10:30 AM (1.5 hours)

The Groomer’s Survival Guide: Reading Dogs, Managing Humans & Keeping the Salon Sane
with Marcia Strong

Every grooming salon has those days—the nervous dogs, the spicy personalities, and the pet parents with calendar dreams and five months of coat. Luckily, there’s no one better to guide you through it all than Marcia Strong.

In this upbeat, practical, sparkle-filled seminar, Marcia shares proven strategies for creating a low-stress, safety-first environment for both groomers and dogs.

You’ll learn how to:

Work confidently with fearful, reactive, or overwhelmed dogs
Read body language and adjust handling for comfort and safety
Build trust without losing your cool (or your fingers)
Navigate tough conversations with pet parents
Create a calmer, more efficient salon flow

Throughout it all, Marcia reinforces the golden rule: the comfort and safety of every dog always comes first.

11:00 AM–12:30 PM (1.5 hours)

Handstripping & Carding: Mastering Coat Integrity the Right Way
with Nathan Austin & Kathlena Austin

One of grooming’s most misunderstood—and most beautiful—skills, handstripping and carding can completely transform coat quality, colour, and longevity.

In this clear, confidence-boosting seminar, the Austins break down the why, when, and how of this traditional method in a way that’s approachable and practical.

You’ll learn:

Which dogs are ideal candidates—and when handstripping isn’t appropriate
Essential tools and techniques from beginner basics to refined methods
How to maintain coat integrity while keeping the dog comfortable
Common salon breeds that benefit from carding and stripping
Timing, workflow, and efficiency tips

A must-attend for groomers wanting to expand their technical skill set.

2:00–4:00 PM (2 hours)

Doodle Perfection: Pro-Level Pet Trims
with Sue Zecco & Jay Scruggs

Join world-renowned grooming powerhouses Sue Zecco & Jay Scruggs for an exclusive, high-impact Doodle seminar focused on efficiency, polish, and client-loving results.

With decades of combined experience, Sue and Jay are known for their ability to make even the most challenging coats feel manageable.

They’ll share:

How to decode different Doodle coat types
Prep techniques that lead to smoother scissoring
Creating balanced, stylish trims that clients love
Where to save time without sacrificing quality
Communicating realistic expectations with pet parents

Packed with technique and real-world insight, this seminar will leave you confident, inspired, and ready to elevate your Doodle grooms.

SUNDAY – July 26, 2026

9:00–11:00 AM (2 hours)

Salon-Perfect Poodles: Elegant Pet Trims with European Flair
with Romana Kania

Poodles are timeless, intelligent, and endlessly elegant. In this highly practical, salon-focused seminar, Romana Kania shares her expert approach to creating refined pet poodle trims inspired by classic European style and top-level competition standards.

This seminar focuses on:

Understanding structure and angulation
Creating balanced, flattering silhouettes
Applying European flair without over-complicating
Clean scissor techniques and refined finishes
Building the perfect topknot
Subtle refinements for competition-ready trims

Ideal for salon groomers and competitors alike.

11:30 AM–1:00 PM (1.5 hours)

Social Media for Grooming Success: Grow Your Brand, Your Confidence & Your Community
with Nathan Austin & Kathlena Austin

Turn your everyday grooming life into scroll-stopping, client-booking content. Nathan & Kathlena break down how to grow your brand online—without losing your authenticity or your sanity.

You’ll learn how to:

Find your unique online voice
Create engaging, algorithm-friendly content
Use storytelling and simple editing tricks
Build community, not just followers
Understand what works and why

Fun, honest, and packed with practical tips.

2:00–3:30 PM (1.5 hours)

Coat Carving: Precision, Artistry & Playful Creativity
with Isabella Doblas Jones

Step into the world of coat carving with Isabella Doblas Jones as she breaks down how to create bold—or beautifully subtle—designs through scissoring and clipper work.

You’ll learn how to: