After getting laid off in February, I started Prairie Bookkeeping. Here's what my first year as a small business owner taught me about gratitude and growth.

I'll be the first to admit it's not the most exciting or glamorous job I've ever done. I don’t find it surprising that 40% of small business owners find bookkeeping and tax preparation to be one of the most challenging aspects of running a business. However, it surprises me every day how even the most minor changes can have such a profound impact on my clients.

Being seasonal isn't a character flaw in your business model. It's a different operating style that requires different financial strategies, but it also provides unique advantages once you learn to leverage them.

Payment processing doesn't have to be a mystery that quietly drains your profits. While that advertised 2.9% rate might actually cost you 4.5% once you factor in all the hidden fees, you now have the tools to see through the marketing and calculate your true costs. The processor with the flashiest ads or lowest headline rate is rarely the best choice for your specific business.

90% of Iowa Small Businesses Miss These Tax Deductions - Are You One of Them? Save thousands on your 2025 taxes with these commonly overlooked deductions specifically for Iowa small businesses.