About The Groomers
Alaina LeBlanc
Owner/Pet Stylist
With over two decades of experience, Alaina began her grooming journey in 2005 and turned her passion into a reality when she opened Pawfections Pet Salon in 2011 . Since then, she has grown from a dedicated stylist into a leader and educator in the grooming industry.
Alaina is the initiator and president of the Maine Professional Pet Groomers Association, championing continued education, high standards and collaboration among groomers statewide . She also founded The Groomer’s Speakeasy Institute, a continuing‑education hub that brings nationally renowned grooming educators to Kennebunk for intimate seminars .
Beyond teaching, Alaina competes at national grooming events, winning awards and staying at the forefront of industry trends . She’s also stepped into the AKC ring as an owner‑handler, gaining breed‑specific grooming and presentation expertise . She and her team are also Pet Tech CPR & First Aid certified, so they’re prepared to care for pets with confidence and love in any situation.
With a background as a veterinary assistant and licensed wildlife rehabilitator, Alaina ensures every pet receives compassionate care and attention to overall health, incorporating holistic and natural approaches to wellness. Whether she’s guiding fellow groomers, showing her own dogs, or giving your pet a one‑on‑one spa treatment, her goal is always the same: to bring out the very best in every dog she touches .
Bethanie Currier
Pet Stylist
Hi, I’m Bethanie! For more than six years I’ve been devoted to grooming dogs, and I’ve loved every minute of it. I moved to Maine from Florida at 18 and have worked with animals in vet offices, doggie daycares and shelters ever since. Dogs have always been a huge part of my life, and I do my best to make every pup feel safe, happy and cared for while they’re with me.
I’m committed to staying on top of an evolving industry. Modern grooming introduces new tools, techniques and styles all the time , so I regularly participate in continuing‑education workshops and seminars on topics such as advanced coat care, breed‑specific styling and safe handling. This ongoing learning builds my confidence in working with all kinds of breeds and temperaments and ensures that your pet receives the most up‑to‑date care.
Safety is my top priority, which is why I’m certified in pet CPR and first aid. Pet‑care experts note that accidents can happen, and professionals with CPR/first‑aid training are better prepared to act quickly in an emergency . This certification gives my clients added peace of mind that their furry family members are in capable hands.
When I’m not grooming, I love getting creative through painting and arts and crafts, and I enjoy relaxing with cozy games like Animal Crossing. I also spend plenty of time with my own Pomeranian, who keeps me smiling and reminds me daily why I love what I do!
Katlyn Place
Pet Stylist
Hello, my name is Katie, and I have been grooming dogs for over 12 years. My passion used to be in food — at one point I really wanted to be a pastry chef, and after working in the culinary world for so long, I decided I needed a change. That's when I landed a job working in a grooming salon. What a change! But because I love animals, it just fit, and I never want to go back. I really am in it for the dogs, but I am here for the people as well. What better way to make a connection with someone than by being passionate about something they cherish? Grooming isn't a job — it's part of my life, and it makes my life better.
Becoming a part of Pawfections gives me an amazing opportunity to open up the grooming world to its max! By working hard and furthering my education with knowledgeable and talented people, I feel I can do even better for your furry family member. I have trained in pet CPR and first aid in case of an emergency, and I continue to further my education by attending seminars and taking courses.
Outside of the grooming world, I have many crafts and hobbies, such as needle felting and rock tumbling. I also love to be near the water and stay active by kayaking and fishing. I love sci-fi and fantasy, and spend a lot of time reading, playing fantasy games, and watching movies. I try to get out to a concert with my best friend or a Bruins game at least once a year! The most important thing at the end of the day is my small but beloved family. My husband and I spoil our derpy Doberman, Loona, like she's a rock star — and for us, that makes for a happy life.