In this edition of the IPBN Spotlight Series, we’re proud to feature Elizabeth O’Shea, Co-Founder of IPBN member company Groom & Coffee, a community-driven pet grooming salon and café that has quickly earned a loyal following in Lisbon’s pet-loving community.

Elizabeth’s journey into entrepreneurship didn't begin in a boardroom or business incubator, it happened while picking up her own dog, Dennis, from a local sitter.

“My involvement began quite organically,” she explains. “My business partner, Danielle, is a well-known local dog sitter with over seven years of experience. While picking up my own fur baby, Dennis, from her place, she mentioned she was planning to open a grooming salon. It immediately sparked my interest.”

At the time, Elizabeth had been exploring a number of business opportunities, from fitness to hospitality, but hadn’t yet found the right fit. That conversation turned into a collaboration—and Groom & Coffee was officially founded in August 2023, opening its doors in March 2024.

With a background in marketing, operations, and sales, Elizabeth brought a valuable set of skills to the business.

“I have a strong grasp of brand building, digital marketing, and local outreach strategies,” she shares. “I enjoy creating campaigns that connect with our community and reflect our values.” She also oversees operations and sourcing, from supplier relationships to developing efficient systems behind the scenes—ensuring the business runs smoothly from front-of-house to grooming table.

Building Community, One Client at a Time

What sets Groom & Coffee apart is its clear commitment to community and care. The business has expanded beyond grooming to include curated wellness products and café offerings, with future plans for merchandise, doggy daycare services, and deeper involvement in pet nutrition.

“We’re working closely with trusted brands like Ownat and Happy Dog to offer high-quality, nutrition-focused food options in-store,” Elizabeth says. “Our goal is to provide curated, reliable products that help our clients make informed decisions about their pets’ health.”

Equally important is the development of the team. “We’re investing in staff training and development, ensuring our team stays up to date with best practices in grooming, customer service, and pet care. A well-trained, confident team is key to delivering a consistently great experience.”

Every project, Elizabeth says, is guided by one principle: “Being client-focused and enhancing the lives of both pets and their humans.”

A Case Study in Consistency and Care

One story Elizabeth shared perfectly illustrates that ethos. A Bichon Frise named Ray came to Groom & Coffee with a severely matted coat—common in the breed without consistent grooming.

“At the time, we had no choice but to cut her coat short and essentially start fresh,” Elizabeth recalls. “We placed Ray on a grooming package, which included regular visits—twice a month, alternating between a bath and brush, and a bath and full groom.”

Over time, Ray’s coat returned to full health. “We always say, ‘Let’s get it right, then keep it right,’ and Ray is a perfect example of that philosophy.”

In fact, grooming packages have become a hallmark of the business model. “These packages help maintain coat health, reduce stress for the dog, and come with perks like a 10% discount on baths. One client even brings their dog in twice a week for baths!”

Looking Ahead with Purpose

When asked what message she’d like to share with the wider IPBN network, Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of purpose-driven business.

“The message I’d love to share is that community-driven, client-focused businesses still matter—and they can thrive when built with heart, consistency, and purpose,” she says.

“At Groom & Coffee, we’re more than just a grooming salon and café. We’re a space that supports pet owners with real solutions—from expert grooming and wellness products to trusted advice and care plans tailored to each pet’s needs.”

Elizabeth and the Groom & Coffee team are eager to connect with like-minded individuals and businesses who value personal service and long-term impact.

“We want people to know that we listen, we care, and we’re here for the long game. If you’re part of our network—whether as a client, collaborator, or fellow small business—we’d love to connect, share knowledge, and grow together.”