You want to manage your own books—without the second-guessing.
You’ve done your best to manage your own books—and honestly, you’ve done pretty well.
But the late nights Googling GST deadlines, the months you fell behind, the decisions you made without real financial clarity? They’ve taken their toll.
And no matter how many YouTube tutorials or Instagram tips you save, the feeling lingers…
Am I actually doing this right?
You’re spending more time worrying about your books than working from them
You’re afraid you’ve made a mistake—but you’re not sure where to start fixing it
You want to stay hands-on… but not at the expense of your confidence
You don’t have to trade control for clarity.
When your books are up to date—but still feel unclear…
When you’re staying on top of things—but still second-guessing your next move…
When you’re doing the work—but wondering if it’s even right…
It’s not about working harder. It’s about having the right kind of support.
A second set of eyes on your books each month
Thoughtful guidance and accountability—without taking over
Strategic insight you can actually use—not just generic advice
Because keeping your books yourself shouldn’t mean figuring it all out alone.
You don’t have to trade control for clarity.
When your books are up to date—but still feel unclear…
When you’re staying on top of things—but still second-guessing your next move…
When you’re doing the work—but wondering if it’s even right…
It’s not about working harder. It’s about having the right kind of support.
A second set of eyes on your books each month
Thoughtful guidance and accountability—without taking over
Strategic insight you can actually use—not just generic advice
Because keeping your books yourself shouldn’t mean figuring it all out alone.
Because nearly 30% of small business owners overpay in taxes due to bookkeeping errors they didn’t know they were making.
And 1 in 5 end up hit with penalties for mistakes they never meant to make.
That’s not just stressful—it’s expensive.
Here’s the thing: bookkeeping isn’t hard because you’re doing it wrong.
It’s hard because nobody ever taught you how to do it right—in a way that fits your business.
Stay in control of your books—with expert support you can count on.
DIY Bookkeeping Support gives you consistent monthly check-ins, smart guidance, and the kind of clarity that turns vague uncertainty into confident next steps.
You’ll stay in the driver’s seat.
We’ll bring expert reviews, clear reports, and steady support—so you can feel confident in your numbers and the decisions that follow.
You’ll walk away with:
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Clean, accurate books
Reviewed monthly so you can trust your numbers and catch small mistakes before they snowball. -
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Reports that make sense
Delivered with plain-language context, not just PDFs full of question marks. -
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Answers when you need them
Because you’re not meant to do this alone, and "just Google it" isn’t a strategy. -
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Steady, strategic support
From a real human who actually understands your business and where you want to take it. -
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Confidence at year-end
With a complete CPA-ready package and the peace of mind that everything’s already sorted.
What’s Included in Your Support:
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Each month, we take a close look under the hood to make sure your books are accurate, up to date, and doing what they’re supposed to.
Personalized review of your reconciliations and categorizations
Light troubleshooting when something’s off (we’ll flag it and let you know what to do next)
Gentle accountability that helps you stay consistent without pressure
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You’ll receive your core monthly reports—complete, current, and readable.
Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet, Statement of Cash Flows
A/R and A/P reports included, if applicable
A few notes from us on what we noticed (so you never have to go digging)
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Because you don’t need to memorize every rule—you just need a guide that helps you stay organized and catch things naturally.
A custom document that evolves with your business
Tips for avoiding errors, spotting issues, and staying clear
Reviewed and updated annually (Foundations) or quarterly (Momentum)
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Let’s talk it through. We’ll hop on a Zoom call to answer questions, adjust your workflow, or troubleshoot whatever’s been weighing on you.
Quarterly calls for Foundations; monthly for Momentum
Come with questions or just show up—we’ll guide the conversation either way
Follow-up notes or action lists sent your way when needed
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When year-end rolls around, we’ll tidy everything up and wrap it in a bow.
One final review of your books for the year
A full CPA-ready reports package
Adjusting entries posted so your numbers are finalized and ready to file
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When something weird pops up in QBO or you’re not sure where that refund goes, we’re just an email away.
No question is too small (or too weird)
Plain-language explanations, always
Response times that respect your time and ours
Here’s how it works:
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Step 01: Start with a simple setup
We’ll get you set up with Hubdoc (if you’re not already using it), get view-only access to your books, and touch base about how things are looking so far. You’ll fill out a short intake form so we can understand your systems and what you want to get out of this support.
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Step 02: Settle into your monthly rhythm
We’ll check your books each month for errors or red flags, reconcile your statements, and prep your full suite of financial reports before sending over a plain-language review of anything we caught, along with best practices and recommendations tailored to how you actually work.
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Step 03: Ask questions, build confidence, and stay in control
You’ll still be doing the day-to-day bookkeeping, but you won’t be doing it alone. With consistent feedback and clear guidance, you’ll start catching mistakes sooner, understanding your numbers better, and leading with clarity (not crossed fingers).
Derek Brain, Owner, Pitstar Trucking Ltd.
“At Pitstar Trucking Ltd., we've always strived to keep our focus on the road. That's why we rely on Brighten Bookkeeping Co. to handle all our bookkeeping needs.
Since dealing with Brighten Bookkeeping, our financial management has become a breeze. Katie's expertise and attention to detail have saved us countless hours of hassle and ensured our books are always in top shape.
More importantly, Katie's proactive approach has taken a huge weight off my shoulders. She doesn't just keep track of the numbers, she understands my business and anticipates our needs. This has given me the peace of mind to focus on what I do best! Trucking!
If you're looking for a reliable and professional bookkeeping service, look no further than Brighten Bookkeeping Co. They're a fantastic team, and Katie is simply amazing!”
Yes, you could keep figuring it out as you go.
You could rely on your best guess when it comes to categorizing transactions.
You could wait until tax time to find out what you missed.
You could tell yourself that if things were really wrong, you’d know.
But here’s the truth: doing your own books doesn’t mean doing them alone.
If what you want is to feel grounded in your numbers, confident in your process, and clear on what’s working (and what’s not), support like this isn’t a luxury.
It’s a smart, strategic move.
DIY Bookkeeping Support is offered in three tailored tiers, so you can get the level of backup that makes the most sense for how you work.
Whether you’re finding your footing, building a rhythm, or ready to get more strategic—there’s a tier that fits.
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For the solo operator who wants a second set of eyes, smart reports, and support when you need it.
Monthly Financial Review – We’ll check your books for errors and ensure everything’s categorized correctly.
Unlimited Email Support – Have a question? Need a second opinion? We’re here for you.
Hubdoc Subscription – Included for seamless document and receipt management.
Monthly Management Reports – Profit & Loss Statement, Balance Sheet, Statement of Cash Flows, and Aged AR/AP (if applicable).
Best Practices Guide – Custom recommendations to help you stay organized and spot issues early.
Annual Year-End Review, CPA Package Prep, and Adjusting Entries – So your books are clean and complete when it counts.
$210/month
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For the steady DIY-er who wants a quarterly pulse check to stay aligned and on track.
Everything in Essentials, PLUS:
Quarterly Check-In Calls – Dedicated time to review your books, troubleshoot sticky spots, and strategize.
Ongoing Updates to Your Best Practices Guide – Reviewed and refreshed annually to grow with you.
$275/month
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For the ambitious DIY-er who wants full support, ongoing insight, and monthly touchpoints to stay sharp and proactive.
Everything in Foundations, PLUS:
Monthly Check-In Calls – More regular time to review your numbers and align them with your goals.
Quarterly Updates to Your Best Practices Guide – So your systems keep pace with your growth.
$330/month
Not sure which tier is the right fit?
That’s what the discovery call is for. We’ll walk through your business, your goals, and your current setup—and recommend the level of support that makes the most sense for you.
Ready to keep doing your own books—without doing it alone?
Let’s talk through where you’re at, what’s working (and what’s not), and which tier of DIY Bookkeeping Support will give you the clarity and confidence you’ve been craving.
You’ll walk away with insight, not pressure. Just smart, human support.
We only take on a limited number of DIY clients each quarter.
That way, every business gets the attention, support, and strategy it deserves.
If this is the kind of steady backup you’ve been craving, now’s the time to reach out.
We’ll help you choose the right tier and get you set up for smooth, confident sailing.
Carmen Richter, Owner, Mistahiya Contracting
“Before working with Brighten, I was frustrated with having to deal with tax filings, invoices and payments. Once I started working with Katie, I could immediately see that she really wanted to see her clients succeed in their businesses. Promptly responding to our requests, she has saved me so much time in operating the business.”
This is a month-to-month engagement—so you’re never locked into something that isn’t serving you.
Please note: refunds are not offered, but your support won’t end abruptly. If you ever decide to step away, we just ask for 30 days’ notice. That gives us time to close things out cleanly and return a tidy, reconciled set of books.
Hi, I’m Katie.
I’ve been in the bookkeeping world since 2009, and I created Brighten Bookkeeping Co. to give small business owners a different kind of support.
Not just reconciliations.
Not just compliance.
But real clarity. Thoughtful strategy.
And a monthly rhythm that actually makes it easier to feel in control of your business—even if you’re still doing the books yourself.
This service exists because I’ve seen the difference it makes—when a business owner gets the right kind of backup. When the numbers finally make sense. When the support actually supports.
If you’re craving that kind of partnership?
You’re in the right place.
Hi, I’m Katie.
I’ve been in the bookkeeping world since 2009, and I created Brighten Bookkeeping Co. to give small business owners a different kind of support.
Not just reconciliations.
Not just compliance.
But real clarity. Thoughtful strategy.
And a monthly rhythm that actually makes it easier to feel in control of your business—even if you’re still doing the books yourself.
This service exists because I’ve seen the difference it makes—when a business owner gets the right kind of backup. When the numbers finally make sense. When the support actually supports.
If you’re craving that kind of partnership?
You’re in the right place.
Is DIY Bookkeeping Support right for you?
Let’s make sure this is the kind of backup that’ll actually support the way you work.
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You’re a great fit if…
✦ You’re a service-based business owner who’s been keeping your own books—but you’re tired of wondering if you’re doing it right.
✦ You’re ready to make decisions with confidence, not just crossed fingers and vague numbers.
✦ You want to stay hands-on—but not at the expense of your peace of mind.
✦ You’re organized enough to stay on top of things, but strategic support sounds like a dream.
✦ You want a bookkeeper who’ll offer kind guidance, not cold corrections.
✦ You’re curious, collaborative, and committed to building a business that actually works for you.
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This probably isn’t for you if…
✦ You’re looking for a one-time fix or a quarterly check-in—we’re here for consistent, month-to-month support.
✦ You want someone to do your books for you—this is a collaborative service designed for DIY-ers who still want to be in the driver’s seat.
✦ You don’t have time to respond to questions, check reports, or make small tweaks when needed—this support works best when we work together.
✦ You’re just starting out and don’t have steady income, systems, or tools in place yet—in that case, check out our Calm Clarity Toolkit instead to start building smart habits from the ground up.
✦ You’re not open to using Hubdoc or QuickBooks Online. These tools are key to how we support you clearly and consistently.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Absolutely. If you ever decide you’re ready to hand things off entirely, we’ll make the transition smooth and easy. You won’t have to start over—we’ll already know your books, your systems, and how you work best. Just let us know when you’re ready, and we’ll walk through your options together.
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Yes! All three tiers include a thorough year-end review, full CPA-ready reports, and any adjusting entries needed to close things out. We’ll make sure everything’s clean, clear, and ready to file.
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Yes. We exclusively support QBO, and your books will need to be up to date in that platform for us to provide monthly reviews and reports.
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You’ll use Hubdoc to upload your receipts, bank statements, and bills. It’s easy to use (even from your phone), and your subscription is included at no extra cost.
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That’s exactly what we’re here for. Each month, we’ll review your categorizations, gently flag any issues, and explain what to do next—so you’re always learning, growing, and staying on track.
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No shame at all—just support. If you’re more than one month behind, we may recommend a small cleanup before we begin. We’ll walk through everything together on the consult call and create a game plan that fits your pace.
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No. Because this is a DIY support service, you’ll remain in control of your filings. But we’ll absolutely guide you on timing, review your returns, and make sure you’re feeling confident when it’s time to file.
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Most clients spend about 2–4 hours monthly on their books. We’ll help you streamline that process and check your work so it stays simple, doable, and accurate.
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That’s totally okay! We’ll meet you where you are—no jargon, no judgment. This service is built to support DIY-ers, whether you’re self-taught or just starting to get serious about your numbers.
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You can cancel with 30 days’ notice. That gives us time to wrap up your books cleanly and return everything in good shape. Refunds aren’t offered, but we’ll never leave you hanging.
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You are not alone—and we mean that. Most clients come to us mid-overwhelm. This is a safe, supportive space, and our job is to help you move forward—not judge where you’ve been.
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We’d love to hear from you. Just send us an email at hello@brightenbookkeeping.ca and we’ll get back to you with a clear, friendly answer—no pressure, no spam.
