Armed with determination, a passion for pet care, and a willingness to learn as she went, Andrea started grooming dogs from a live-work space and began building what would eventually become Atlanta’s first pet care wellness and workforce hub.
Today, Jazzy Pawz offers cage-free, one-on-one grooming experiences designed to reduce stress and create a positive environment for pets. Clients are welcomed into a setting that incorporates enrichment activities, calming music, and personalized attention, an experience that sets Jazzy Pawz apart from larger franchises and big-box competitors.
Over the past decade, Andrea has expanded to a second location, launched Georgia’s first registered pet grooming apprenticeship program through the U.S. Department of Labor, created salon suites for independent pet care professionals, and opened a boutique featuring products from local brands.
“To start a business and not have mentorship, you’re kind of just jumping into it,” she said.
After nearly ten years in business, Andrea joined the 2025 Beltline Business Ventures (BBV) cohort looking for guidance, mentorship, and the tools to help her scale strategically.
Through BBV’s workshops, advisors, and one-on-one support, Andrea gained a deeper understanding of her financial statements, learned how to evaluate and negotiate commercial leases, explored capital options for future growth, and developed a stronger business strategy. For the first time, she felt confident that she not only had a successful business but also understood how to grow it.
The program also helped her shift her mindset.
Rather than spending all of her time working in the business, Andrea began thinking more strategically about working on the business. She recognized the importance of building a team, delegating responsibilities, and creating systems that would support long-term growth.
That new confidence led Andrea to take on a challenge she never imagined for herself: pitching her business in front of an audience.
Describing herself as shy and introverted, Andrea initially hesitated to participate in BBV’s pitch competition. But with coaching, practice sessions, and encouragement from mentors, she stepped outside her comfort zone and shared her vision for the future of Jazzy Pawz.
She went on to win first place.
“I almost didn’t do it,” Andrea said. “The program helped us prepare every step of the way. Then I won.”
The momentum didn’t stop there.
After completing BBV, Andrea continued building on what she learned by participating in The Center’s Digital Growth Accelerator. The program helped her strengthen her digital marketing skills, better understand SEO and lead generation, and identify new ways to reach customers online.
Together, the programs have given Andrea the tools, confidence, and support network to continue growing Jazzy Pawz and pursuing new opportunities.
June 24, 2026