Q + A: PET SPA OWNER, Sharon Town Lee
Sharon Town Lee, owner of Paws & Effect Pet Spa on Pico Boulevard, quickly earned the loyalty of neighborhood dog lovers by treating their dogs like family members, with tender loving care, impeccable service and the best quality shampoos and products. We sat down to learn a little bit about her and her shop, a perennial winner in Santa Monica’s annual Most Loved Business contest.
How did you get started on Pico?
In 2014, I decided that a pet-related business was a great fit for my interests and skills, I did my research and found that the demographics in my local Pico neighborhood supported a full-service, pet spa and boutique. It took 2 full years of actively looking for space that met the needs of the business before I hit the jackpot! I went to grooming school myself, to understand the nuts and bolts of the business.
What sets you apart from the competition?
Paws & Effect Pet Spa is unique in its focus on treating pets as family members, aligned with our philosophy of placing a priority on your pet’s health and wellbeing.
We are a styling salon, tranquil and clean, with special treatments and adornments. Our aim is to increase the health and beauty of your treasured pet, bringing joy to them and you! Our stylists, with exceptional skills, are experts at making your dog comfortable and beautiful. We use the newest systems to run the shop, including use of social media, appointments online, and text reminders.
What is your idea of success?
We’ve had the opportunity to work with an amazing team of folks, who I am super proud of. It’s very fulfilling that our company provides employment for 13 people and helps to support the local economy. We learn new things every day, and we also get to be with dogs and their families all day! My grandpa was a barber, and his shop was the local hangout for his friends. It has been my dream to have a business that brings joy to people and is a treasured part of the community, and I think we’ve done that. I’ve made so many new friends, (human and dog) and I think people feel comfortable and happy when they drop in.
What makes Pico special?
People sometimes think of Santa Monica as a city, but it is made up of several local neighborhoods, with a unique sense of identity and community. I love that. Pico has a ton of fun, family things to do, like Virginia Ave Park, and the Morgan-Wixson Theatre. But there are lots of small businesses and services on the boulevard, like mine. People visit us for every day needs like car repair and picture framing, as well as a night out at Lunetta, or whisky and pool at The Daily Pint!
Where do you like to eat on Pico Boulevard?
When I go out for dinner, I really love all the fun choices on Pico. It is so diverse! Lunetta is stylish and elegant but still feels like a local hangout, and the food is delicious. For a daytime special occasion, you can’t beat Shutters on the Beach for lunch. The view, service and cocktails are all world class, right here in our neighborhood. How lucky are we? I’m very big on picnics, and Lady and Larder is perfect for that. For an outdoor concert, I’ll pick up sandwiches, snacks, wine and beautiful flowers - all in the same adorable spot!