We all love our dogs, but having a dog can be also be a lot of work. For pup owners, it’s important to thank those that help us care of our four-legged friends, like vets, dog walkers, and groomers. One groomer, in particular, is Erica Li of Grooming by Erica Li. As this week’s Hoboken Girl of the Week, learn all about how she got her start in the dog grooming biz, her being a cancer survivor, her goals, and more. Keep reading to learn all about Hoboken Girl of the Week, Erica Li.
Tell us about yourself.
I’m the shop owner/dog groomer of Grooming by Erica Li located at 155 4th Street in Hoboken.
“Grooming would never have entered my mind if I didn’t have my dogs. They completely changed my life.”
Who is your biggest source of inspiration?
My dogs are my biggest inspiration. I was in corporate for almost 30 years and the last company I worked for let me go. I didn’t know what I wanted to do after that, but I knew I didn’t want to go back to corporate. My daughter encouraged me to check out grooming school, and I decided to give it a try. I thought if it doesn’t lead to a grooming career, I can at least groom my own dogs and save some money. Grooming would never have entered my mind if I didn’t have my dogs. They completely changed my life.
See More: Hoboken Girl of the Week: Courtney Roselle {of Brazen Athletics}
What are your goals for this year?
I am currently one year in remission from ovarian cancer and my goal for this year is to stay healthy so that I can continue to cater to all the fur babies.
What does a typical day look like for you?
My day usually starts at 9:00AM and ends between 5:00PM to 6:00PM. My daily schedule varies as I work strictly by appointment only.
“I’ve always wanted to open my own grooming shop, but finding the right space in Hoboken is very challenging. But thanks to Heather, I have a cute and cozy shop of my own.”
What has been the highlight in your career so far?
The highlight of my career would be when Heather Gaida, owner of Trusty Tail Pet Care, approached me to rent space from her property. I’ve always wanted to open my own grooming shop, but finding the right space in Hoboken is very challenging. But thanks to Heather, I have a cute and cozy shop of my own.
Tell us about another business in the area you admire.
Jungle Juice, they have the best smoothies and açaí bowls in town. Not to mention the amazing service of their staff.
Hoboken + Jersey City Favorites
What are your favorite restaurants in Hoboken and JC?
Court Street in Hoboken, Matthews in JC.
What is your favorite boutique in Hoboken?
MARGO Market in Hoboken for their uniqueness and their support of individual designers.
What do you love most about Hoboken?
I live and work in Hoboken. I love Hoboken’s sense of community, and of course, the pups in town.
What is your favorite thing to do in Hudson County?
I only give myself one day off a week. My favorite thing to do on my day off is to hang out with my dogs and take them out for walks.
How long have you lived and worked in Hoboken?
I’ve lived in Hoboken for about 15 years and worked in Hoboken as a groomer for over 10 years.
Read More: Hoboken Girl of the Week: Carly Heitlinger {of Carly the Prepster}
What is your favorite outdoor place to spend time in Hoboken?
Bwé Kafé.
What is your favorite place to work out in Hudson County?
The streets of Hoboken, I like to walk.
Where do you go out with friends in the area?
Court Street restaurant, Tosti Cafe, Elysian Cafe, Antique Bakery, Bwé Kafé.
What is something you think needs to come to Hoboken?
Anything but real estate offices, nail salons, bars, banks. A Whole Foods market would be awesome.
Keep up with Erica and her adorable pups on Instagram at @ericaligrooming and book an appointment for your dog with her via text at 917-747-5524.
Want to be featured or nominate someone as an upcoming Hoboken Girl of the Week?
Email hello@hobokengirl.com about your/her story.
