After completing the culinary program in Charlottetown, PEI, My husband Shane and I dreamed of starting our own business. Running a business requires learning many new skills, and I was particularly eager to master the financial aspects of the business. To gain the necessary skills, I enrolled in the University of Prince Edward Island to begin my accounting degree. Halfway through my studies, we moved back to Saskatchewan to raise our three children and to be closer to family. I then completed my Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting through Athabasca University, and together with Shane, we started Hillside Food: Kitchen & Farm.
While running Hillside Food, I was still eager to gain experience in accounting. So, I also took a job working alongside a CPA to gain experience in the accounting field. This invaluable experience allowed me to provide accounting services to business owners primarily in agriculture, as well as in other industries including beauty, grocery stores, photography, massage, welding, mechanics charities, and non-profits.
I enjoyed working with all my clients and being able to learn new industries while meeting new like minded entrepreneurs. However, I often struggled with the impersonal nature of my relationships with these business owners. The need for streamlined processes sometimes prevented me from adapting to my clients’ unique needs. This realization led me to start my own accounting services business, where I can now offer flexible, personalized support to each client, helping them achieve their goals. By building strong relationships, I gain a deeper understanding of their visions and personalities, enabling me to provide more effective assistance.
Today, I continue to work with agricultural businesses, as well as campgrounds, charities, non-profits, dental practices, event management companies, seamstresses, caterers, food manufacturers, welders, mechanics, summer camps, and restaurants.