About US

It all started when I was just 7 and half years old.

 

It all started back in 1979 when my parents bought a Bichon for my older sister. Luckily, they knew to find a reputable breeder, and “Becky” came into our lives. From the moment she arrived, it was love at first sight. My mom thought it would be fun for us to get involved in dog shows as a hobby, but little did I know that these fluffy white balls would become such a huge part of my life.

I couldn’t have achieved everything I did with this breed without my mom’s partnership and support. At first, I was too young to compete, so I spent my time watching and learning everything I could. We became close friends with our breeder and other Bichon enthusiasts, diving deep into caring for, grooming, showing, and loving Bichons.

Before I knew it, I was stepping into Junior Handling classes and even snagged the Best Bichon Junior Handler in America award several times during my youth. It was incredibly exciting! None of my success would have been possible without the love and dedication of my first Bichon, “Star.” She was my best friend growing up and lived to be 18 years old. We were an incredible team, and I feel so blessed to have had her by my side.

Star and me at one of our early Shows. Star was my first Bichon, and my best Friend. I was lucky enough to be her human for 18 years.

As time went on, I realized I had outgrown the junior handling scene and was eager to dive into the breed confirmation ring to earn championships with our dogs. And let me tell you, I was hooked! There have been so many memorable moments, but a few really stand out. Winning Best of Winners from the Bred-by class at the 2004 National Specialty was incredible. Handling both the Winners Dog and Winners Bitch at the 2006 National Specialty under Breeder-Judge Ann Hearn was an honor. And who could forget winning Best of Breed at the 2002 Eukanuba Invitational?

But perhaps the highlight was winning Best of Breed at the 2005 Westminster Kennel Club dog show with my boy, “Cherry Powers.” It was one of the most thrilling days of my life. Traveling and meeting people around the world has been such a rewarding experience. I imported a male from Finland and formed a close friendship with his breeder. She graciously hosted me, and I had the chance to study the bloodlines behind my boy “Perry.” I even got to attend a World Winner Dog Show in Helsinki with my girl “Isis,” who won Best Female and the World Winner 1998 title.

Over the years, my mother and I became close friends with a breeder from Brazil. I spent time in Sao Paulo, learning about our lines and introducing new ones. And when a breeder from China reached out, we developed a friendship that led to me traveling to Beijing to teach him grooming and showing techniques.

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to build such wonderful relationships and learn so much through my dogs. I’m deeply grateful for the support and loyalty of the amazing people I’ve met along the way.

I’ve been grooming Bichons for as long as I’ve been showing them, and it’s been a fulfilling journey. My first foray into International Grooming Competitions was in 2008, where I was thrilled to win my division. However, my true passion lies in showing.

In 2009, I received a significant honor when the Bichon Frise Club of America nominated me to judge the National Sweepstakes Competition in St. Louis, Missouri. It was a deeply rewarding experience, and it reinforced my appreciation for the incredible work and dedication that breeders contribute to our breed. I felt incredibly proud and excited to be part of such a prestigious event.

Keeping the tradition alive, my mother was invited to judge the Pennsylvania Specialty later that year and had also served as President of the Bichon Frise Club of NY for many years.

On a personal note, I’ve expanded my family with my wonderful husband, Tom, who shares my love for our dogs. Our new son, a little miracle, is growing up surrounded by the same love and respect for animals that we cherish. As you’ll see in our photos, our Bichons are a central part of our lives, and they always will be.

We are dedicated to raising healthy, happy, and beautiful Bichons. This isn’t just a business for us—it’s a passion and a hobby. We prioritize the best possible care for our dogs and their future puppies, treating them as beloved pets and cherished family members first and foremost. I truly can’t imagine my life without my Bichons; they are an integral part of who we are.