The Truth About Tipping: Why It Matters More Than You Think (Especially for Small Business Groomers)

At Roman’s Empire, we’re committed to transparency, compassion, and excellence. So let’s talk about something that often makes people pause: tipping your groomer. It can feel awkward, unclear, or even unnecessary—especially when the person grooming your pet owns the business.

Here’s the truth:
Tipping is never required here, but always appreciated. And it means more than you might think—especially for small business owners doing ethical work at fair prices.

Why Tips Matter (Even When Prices Are Fair)

We price our services at Roman’s Empire to reflect the quality, safety, and overhead of luxury mobile grooming. This means we don’t undercharge and rely on guilt-tipping to survive. But even with sustainable pricing, tips still serve an important role—especially when you're receiving one-on-one, high-effort care from a small business.

Why? Because unlike franchises or large salons that may split labor and responsibility, mobile groomers wear every hat.  We're the scheduler, driver, bather, stylist, cleaner, communicator, and customer service rep—all while giving your pet our full presence and energy.

Tipping Business Owners: Breaking the Myth

Many people believe, “If they own the business, they’re making the most money, right?”

The reality is very different. I used to believe this and was sorely mistaken until I became a small business owner myself.

 Here’s what most people don’t see:

• Owners often get paid last, if at all. In the early years, most put profits back into the business—upgrading equipment, maintaining their van, and covering operating costs.
• Benefits? What benefits? Business owners often skip health insurance, don’t accrue PTO, and don’t pay into retirement, just to keep their business afloat.
• A responsible owner rarely pays themselves more than 30% of their business income. The rest goes to taxes, software, fuel, supplies, tools, maintenance, and insurance—plus saving for emergencies.

So when you tip a small business owner, you’re not padding pockets—you’re supporting a human being who’s pouring their energy, time, and body into a career built on love for animals and service to others.

The Hidden Industry Truth: Many Grooming Businesses Rely on Tips

In many grooming salons—especially those competing in low-price markets—tips are essential. That’s because they often undercharge to stay “competitive,” leaving their groomers dependent on gratuity just to earn a livable wage. It creates burnout, resentment, and turnover.

In contrast, higher-end groomers and small businesses often:

• Charge fairly for the labor and quality they provide
• Rely less on tips to survive—but deeply appreciate them
• Offer more consistent, stress-free care because they’re not rushed or resentful

And when a groomer loves what they do, it shows in the way your pet is treated. For more insight on the work involved, see what professional grooming actually involves.

For more, see why prices vary and why cheap grooming isn't a bargain. 

Tipping = Priority, Not Privilege

Let’s be honest: tipping does make a difference in service dynamics, especially with small businesses.

When you’re respectful, reliable, and show appreciation—in any form—you’re building a relationship. You become a preferred client. Not because you’re “buying” anything extra, but because mutual respect leads to trust, flexibility, and priority when scheduling or needing a favor.

How Much Should You Tip a Groomer?

There’s no strict rule, but grooming—like massage therapy, hairdressing, or chiropractic care—is a personal, service-based profession. The industry standard for tipping service providers is 15–25%, with 20% being the most common.

At Roman’s Empire, tips are never required, but always appreciated. Whether it’s a heartfelt “thank you,” a $10 show of gratitude, or a full 20%—it means the world.

Here’s a general guideline:

• 10%: A kind gesture of appreciation
• 15%: A solid “thank you” for good service
• 20%+: A strong show of support, especially after a complex or difficult groom (matting, senior care, behavior challenges, etc.)
• Anything above that? Amazing! But never expected. Every expression of appreciation is meaningful, though this route will likely make your groomer cry and float the rest of the week!

Tipping helps cover:

• The physical toll and labor-intensive nature of grooming
• The wear-and-tear on equipment and mobile vans
• The ongoing investment in professional tools, training, and high-end products
• The emotional energy and patience your groomer gives to your pet

In short: groomers are service providers, not product sellers. The work is personal, skilled, and requires care, consistency, and compassion. When you tip, you're not just acknowledging that—it fuels the heart behind the work.

Non-Monetary Tips That Mean the World (And Help Us Grow)

Tipping isn’t always about cash—it’s about connection, community, and care. There are many ways to support your local groomer and help small businesses like Roman’s Empire thrive in Folsom, Granite Bay, Citrus Heights, Cameron Park and nearby.

Here’s how you can show appreciation beyond the grooming fee:

•  Offer a drink or small snack
  Mobile groomers often skip breaks. A cold water bottle on a hot day? That’s luxury. It’s a gesture of kindness we never forget.
•  Leave a 5-star review on Google or Yelp
  Reviews are the lifeblood of small businesses. They boost our visibility in local searches like “mobile dog grooming in Folsom” or “best cat groomer in El Dorado Hills”—and help thoughtful pet parents find compassionate, trustworthy care.
•  Refer a friend
  Word-of-mouth is powerful. When you share your positive experience with your circle, you help build a loyal, like-minded client base. (At Roman’s Empire, both you and your referral get 10% off—a win-win!)
•  Follow us on social media & tag us
  Whether it’s a regal pup glow-up or a kitty spa day, sharing and tagging us on Instagram or Facebook keeps us connected—and spreads awareness of safe, ethical grooming.
•  Respect boundaries, policies, and processes
  Showing up on time, confirming appointments, and trusting professional decisions like matting shave-downs or skin assessments shows deep mutual respect—and allows us to provide your pet with the best care possible.
•  Follow coat care and aftercare instructions
  Keeping your pet brushed and on schedule means less stress and more pampering at their next visit. It also keeps their skin and coat in optimal condition between appointments.



These non-monetary “tips” keep our spirits high, our calendars full, and our hearts invested. Every act of support—big or small—makes a lasting impact.

What Tipping Says About You

Tipping isn’t about guilt. It’s about gratitude. Whether it’s monetary, verbal, or through an act of kindness, it tells your groomer:

“I see the effort, I value the care, and I respect your craft.”

That simple message goes a long way in an industry where burnout is common, bodies are overworked, and appreciation is often assumed but rarely expressed.

 Want to support Roman’s Empire today?

• Leave a Google review
• Refer a friend or neighbor (and enjoy 10% off together)
• Tag us in your pet’s transformation on Instagram
• Or simply send a kind message—we treasure them more than you know

Because when you support small businesses like ours, your pet isn’t just a number—they’re royalty.

Serving These Areas with Excellence:

Folsom, El Dorado Hills, Fair Oaks, Rancho Cordova, Citrus Heights, Cameron Park, Roseville, Rocklin, Granite Bay, Carmichael,
Gold River, Orangevale, Antelope, Shingle Springs, and Rescue