Meet the team

The hands
behind the groom.

We bring different skills to the grooming table, but we’re united by a love for animals, thoughtful design, and real bonds.

Tailored Tails team members together in the salon
Cat Aikens, Owner, Head Groomer, Instructor

Owner, Head Groomer, Instructor

Cat Aikens

Cat began their career in healthcare, working in long-term care before earning their National Certification in Surgical Technology and an Associate of Science degree. This foundation instilled a deep appreciation for comfort, well being, and the meaningful connection between care and quality of life.

In 2018, Cat transitioned into the grooming industry, where they refined their expertise in breed-standard trims and elevated styling techniques. Their work includes creative grooming approaches such as pet-safe color and Asian-fusion styling, always performed with a thoughtful, detail-oriented touch.

Over time, Cat discovered a true passion and specialty in feline grooming. Through advanced education and a patient, intuitive approach, they have cultivated a calm, low-stress environment designed to promote comfort, confidence, and trust for every pet in their care.

Zarrow Holt, AKC Professional Groomer

AKC Professional Groomer

Zarrow Holt

Zarrow began his journey working with horses, where he quickly developed an appreciation for the care, effort, and connection involved in grooming animals. Years later, he transitioned into doggy daycare, where he was first introduced to the world of grooming.

In August 2025, he enrolled in the professional dog grooming program at Butler Community College. After earning his American Kennel Club (AKC) Professional Grooming Certificate, Zarrow chose to remain at Tailored Tails, valuing the strong relationships he had already built with his clients.

Since then, Zarrow has continued to refine his skills, following in Cat’s footsteps with techniques such as pet-safe dyes, Asian-fusion styling, and the ever-popular corgi “booty” trim.

Emily Hays, Professional Groomer

Professional Groomer

Emily Hays

Emily brings nearly nine years of grooming experience, supported by a background rooted in both caregiving and the arts. She began her career balancing two roles—working as a live-in caregiver for an individual with intellectual disabilities while starting in a salon as a receptionist, quickly advancing into bathing and grooming.

She has volunteered at the Muscular Dystrophy Association Summer Camp as a counselor and later at a wildlife rehabilitation center. Today, Emily specializes in Asian-fusion styling, breed-standard trims, and working with elderly, anxious, or special-needs pets.

She lives in Wichita with her husband, their young daughter, two energetic dogs, and a cat, and enjoys spending her time remodeling her home, reading, running, and tending to her cactus collection.

Eliana Nichols, Professional Groomer

Professional Groomer

Eliana Nichols

Eliana brings over two years of experience in the grooming industry, with a particular eye for detail and style. She enjoys crafting precise schnauzer cuts, thorough de-shedding treatments, and creative color work, while remaining versatile across a wide range of grooming styles.

Dedicated to continued growth, Ellie enjoys attending grooming seminars and values ongoing education, recognizing that the pet care industry is ever-evolving and full of opportunities to refine her craft.

She is currently working toward becoming an American Kennel Club (AKC) Certified Dog Groomer.

Gabe Rodgers, Reception, Groomer’s Apprentice

Reception, Groomer’s Apprentice

Gabe Rodgers

Gabe joined the team in December 2025, bringing a versatile skill set and a strong sense of organization that helps keep the salon running seamlessly. While newer to the grooming industry, they are already confident and capable, particularly when it comes to bath time and de-shedding treatments.

They take pride in maintaining both the salon environment and its scheduling with care and efficiency. Always eager to grow, Gabe embraces every opportunity to learn, from gaining hands-on experience with clippers to refining new grooming techniques.

Before entering the grooming world, Gabe built a career in computer repair and server hosting. Though a vastly different field, their passion for problem-solving and continuous learning remains constant. Within the supportive environment Cat has created, Gabe continues to expand their skills and contribute meaningfully to the team each day.

Love animals? We’re growing.

Groomers, bathers and apprentices: tell us a little about yourself and we’ll be in touch.

Contact us