He overcame these problems on the football pitch, playing football for Crosfields JFC and taking on coaching and refereeing roles as well as representing the players on the committee.
He was named the FA’s Rising Star of the Year for the north west when he was just 15 in recognition of going the extra mile as a young volunteer in the grassroots game.
Fast forward five years, and the 20-year-old, who lives in Birchwood, has taken that drive and determination into the business world, launching El’s Pawfection Dog Grooming.
On National Love Your Pet Day – Tuesday, February 20, which is an entire day dedicated to our fur babies and feathered friends and giving them a little extra love and attention – Elle shares her experience opening a new business as a teenager.
She told us about The Prince’s Trust Enterprise Program and the support they provide and how her passion for animal welfare led her to open her own business.
If you would like your business featured in the Warrington Guardian, email [email protected]
Elle has always been passionate about animal welfare
What is your full name?
Elle Whittaker
What is the name of the business?
El’s Pawfection Dog Grooming
What is the address?
260a Padgate Lane
Warrington
WA11 3LA
Are you the owner/manager?
I am the owner
When did you open the business?
I opened the business in June 2023.
Is it always in the same location?
Nope. I originally opened from home but then moved last month to new premises on Padgate Lane.
Are you local to the area? did you grow up here
We have lived in the area since 2007. I was four years old when we moved here.
Tell me about your business
I run a holistic dog grooming business. I also offer a drop off and pick up service to people who can’t make it to the shop.
Elle opened her new place in June last year
what do you do What services do you provide?
I provide all aspects of dog grooming from full grooms and de-sheds to nail clippings. All services are carried out using the best products on the market which means I can offer the best possible animal care.
READ MORE:
Warrington’s top ten pet businesses on National Love Your Pet Day
Why did you decide to open your own business?
Having worked with several groomers in the past, I have seen how grooming is not always at the top of people’s agenda. Also, the quality of the products used is not always the best. I want to open my own business and offer the best to everyone because this is what animals deserve.
What is your business background?
I have been accepted into The Prince’s Trust Enterprise Scheme and the people in the program are teaching me. The scheme has helped more than 90,000 young people start their own business, working with 18 to 30 year olds. They provide help and support every step of the way when you want to open your own business.
Why is the business like this?
I’ve always been interested in animal welfare so this is my dream job.
Elle sends photos and videos to customers so they can see their dogs enjoying their pamper session
Did you open before/during/after the Covid-19 pandemic? How has it affected your business?
I trained during the Covid-19 pandemic and opened after the birth of my little girl. He was 11 months old when I opened a business last summer.
What makes your business different from others in the same area/field? What differentiates your business from your competitors?
What sets me apart from other similar businesses is the personal touch I offer. I am an animal lover at heart and always want the best for all the animals in my care. I treat each dog as if he were my own and I love building a relationship with each one of them. If a dog is nervous, I will take the time to meet with the owners and get to know their dog. I also offer videos and photos of grooming sessions so owners can see that their dog is in safe hands.
Why do loyal customers return to your business?
If you look at the reviews we have on Facebook, you will see that they love the personal touch and the care provided at all times. I feel that is our USP.
What next? What do the next few months hold for you and your business?
We are looking at the potential of hiring another groomer. I would also like to open longer hours and more days to cope with demand.
