Meet Chericia Thomas | Minister & Entrepreneur

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

Hi Chericia, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand is trusting in the plans that the Lord has for me, one day at a time. One of my most important factors is believing in myself. Believing that I can reach any goal, endeavor, adventure or success level I can possibly reach. Not allowing failure to become my final destination. Next important factor for me is consistency; to keep going, not looking back at past distractions or disappointments. To push myself a little further each day; but I’ve learned to stop, breath, refocus, retract, relax and gear up again. Prayer is key, faith is trusting the process of my own destination and trusting God for the manifestation of my own purpose for my own life.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business is a professional dog grooming business & doggie boutique, where I’m the owner and operator. I established my dog grooming business in 2012 in a shed in my backyard. I was never ashamed by humble beginnings, because I’m wise enough to know, that hard work pays off. I have always had a passion for animals especially small dogs. When I got started, it was hard, trying to grow and expand with little finances for advertising and the right marketing for clientele growth. I started boarding first, it was hard working with people trying to get my payments. So I taught myself how to groom dogs, and I implemented it into my business. It was never easy, and now at times it can get really hard. Now with alot of business experience, I can cope with whatever issues that may arise. I’ve learned being self employed/ a entrepreneur, that I have to invest back into my own brand. I changed the name from Little Angels Doggie Daycare to Kuttin it Up Dog Grooming SalonLLC in 2018 when I bought a new building for my business.

I’ve also been recognized by the Town Talk as the only black owned dog grooming business in Cenla. I’ve learned to accept my truths concerning how I choose to run my business. To always stand on my beliefs thats causing me to prosper. Respect everyone whether you recieve it back. I want people to know that I am here and here now as a black woman, Entrepreneur of character, and of giving a chance. I was never afraid to open my business, never worried about competition near or far. And also when you can get people to work or be on board, get family to work where work is needed it’s a blessing. My oldest daughter works part-time and attend high school fulltime. I want to let everyone know that self love, self-care and self encouragement will sustain you, until your next level of success presents itself clearly. I’m truly proud of myself; for not allowing other people’s negativity to detour me from what God had and has for me. My brand will be around for along time, with public recognition and a 5 star google rating.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oh wow! I would have to take my girl to my favorite Mexican restaurant for a Fujita platter and their specialty drinks. We’ll go shopping and sight seeing. If its Summer we would definitely hit the beach or lake for some quiet fishing time and watch everyone have a great time. If it’s winter we would go to the Pecan festival and to see our Christmas and fire work events. I would take her to catch a Sunday’s special at the theater. I would let her see where I grew up, hung out and attended school. She would definitely have to meet my awesome family.

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?
I would first like to thank God for all that I have, what I am and over all whom I’ve become. I also would like to thank and recognize Dr. Wayne A. Thomas-Bishop, whom is my wonderful, supportive husband, Pastor and best friend. He has been there for me since day one. He has encouraged me, prayed for me, corrected me, and comforted me. His input and his opinion plays a valid role in my success. He been by my side though the ups and downs. Not only do I feel I’m being recognized as a success story, but my husband is apart of my success story.

Website: chericia43@gmail.com

Youtube: Queen of The South Louisiana

Other: Walmart.com for Hair and Face Essentials by Miss Cee