MONROE, CT — Carolina Sa had a dog walking business and her boyfriend Jordanny Novo, helped out. Then Sa moved on to work at a dog grooming spa, learning under experienced groomers, while taking online courses.
Nearly four years later, Sa decided to strike out on her own. “She saw things she wanted to change and implement herself,” Novo said.
Sa founded the Furever Zen Dog Grooming Spa and her boyfriend, whose professional background includes working at his family’s liquor store, then as a salesman for a beverage distribution company, became her partner.
On April 16, the Newtown couple opened in a storefront at 650 Main St. in Monroe.
“We strive for all dogs to be treated with love and taken care of with understanding and patience,” Sa said.
Furever Zen offers everything from baths to full haircuts, which includes a bath, a shampoo and conditioner. “We try to tailor the shampoo to a dog’s specific needs,” Sa said.
Furever Zen’s logo is a picture of Sa’s late pet Nicky, a pinscher chihuahua mix who lived to age 18.
On Friday, First Selectman Terry Rooney, State Rep. Tony Scott, R-Monroe, Monroe Chamber of Commerce President Ray Giovanni, Community and Economic Development Director William Holsworth and other town officials attended a ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome Furever Zen to Monroe.
“I’m very happy that you took on this shopping center and I’m hoping in the next few years this place will be full with thriving companies like yours,” Rooney said.
The first selectman congratulated the young couple on their new business, wished them a long run of success and told them the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, he and other town officials were there to support them.
Giovanni thanked everyone in attendance, including several members of the Monroe Chamber and the Monroe Ecomomic Development Commission.
“Our furry pets, and other kinds of animals, they’re no longer what’s called extended families,” he said. “Now, as we know, they are our families. To know we have a nice family like yours taking care of our families, it’s gonna be very rewarding for Monroe residents and businesses alike, so thank you for joining us in that compassion and we’ll help you go forward. Our chamber will do whatever we can to promote you all the way through.”
Sa and Novo expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support shown by town officials.
“It goes to show they care and are very appreciative, because a lot of towns don’t show that,” Novo said. “We’re just excited to know we are supported in Monroe.”
“We’re a part of the community,” Sa added.
For information about Furever Zen or to schedule an appointment, call 203-590-3092 or visit its website by clicking here. The spa is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
A gallery featuring photos by Obscura Organica Photography captures moments from Friday’s grand opening:
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