Small Business Saturday: Insight from the Owners of Stratlign Inc.

We are huge supporters of small and local businesses! Well, because:

  1. They help the economy by creating a great number of job opportunities.
  2. Not only does shopping small help the community, but also benefit you by getting to enjoy the more personal experience.
  3. Being business owners ourselves, we appreciate the courageous leap of starting your own business.We understand the challenges and how much work it is. We appreciate all of the support we receive from our clients, friends and family and want to pass it on to other businesses.

We have recently started dedicating Saturdays to the stories of local and client businesses. It is such fun hearing from other owners, learning about their journeys, and getting insight of advice they have for someone thinking of starting their own business.

A huge part of our job is helping business owners, whether it is with accounting and payroll services, taxes, or coaching them through their growth to develop their business. Since we work to guide businesses through their own path of growth and success, why not share our business’s story. Every business journey is unique. Here is a closer insight into Stratlign’s journey.

  1. What inspired us to open our business?The freedom you have as a business owner or self-employed person vs. being an employee.  Nobody is telling us where to be, what to do, etc.Although, there is a stereotype that business owners can come and go as they please. That really is not true unless you’ve put significant time into your business to create an environment where that’s actually possible.
  2. Is there anything special or new happening at Stratlign?We’re hoping to add different types of service lines as technology, small business, and accounting continue to change. We always want to stay ahead of new trends in our industry.We’re implementing Profit First now with clients and we should have a bunch of us certified as ‘Profit Advisors” in the next several months.  I think that’s the missing link for our industry.  Meaning, we should be helping clients not only with their tax situations and accounting, but growing their businesses, becoming profitable, and helping with implementing systems and processes that allow owners to determine what their version of success is for themselves and their business.
  3. What has been our biggest success to date? We’ve gone from zero employees to over 10 in a few short years.  Our business has grown dramatically over the last two years and we want to continue that for as long as possible. Creating a 7-8 figure business is in the works.
  4. If we were to give advice to someone starting a business of their own, what would it be?

•  Define what your goals and vision are for your business long-term, which can be difficult to think about.
•  Establish systems and processes from day one to drive scalability for the business and increase productivity.
•  Be intentional with everything you do.
•  Don’t let other people and their opinions get in the way of your goals and dreams.
•  Be willing to outsource work, tasks, duties, etc. to maximize your time as an owner to focus on the most important       things in your business to create long term success.

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Justice Bragg

Business Development Specialist, Florida

At work, Justice is passionate about helping the team make decisions and connections that propel the business forward. He prioritizes client satisfaction by serving as a medium to facilitate communication to the proper channels making sure every issue is properly addressed.

Outside of work, Justice enjoys exercising by going to the gym and playing pickleball with his friends. He is a self-proclaimed foodie who can’t say no to trying a new restaurant, sometimes even immediately regretting it.

Zachary Williams

Staff Accountant, Florida

At Level Accounting, Zach is responsible for bookkeeping & payroll. He is dedicated to ensuring financial success for our clients.

Beyond the office walls, Zach’s weekends are filled with adventure, whether he’s exploring Florida’s hidden gems with his wife or battling it out in tournaments. When it’s time to unwind, you’ll find him at the movies or casting his line out for a relaxing fishing session.

Melanie Jerome, MBA

SENIOR STAFF ACCOUNTANT, FLORIDA

Meet Melanie J, one of our senior staff accountants! Melanie ensures your financial health with precision and expertise. Beyond the office, she’s a true crime enthusiast who loves traveling and outdoor adventures. Whether she’s balancing books or exploring new trails, MJ’s dedication and skill set the standard for excellence in our team.

Seren Lunsford, MBA

STAFF ACCOUNTANT, INDIANA, QUICKBOOKS ONLINE PRO-ADVISOR

Meet Seren, one of our dedicated staff accountants here at level accounting! She is responsible for bookkeeping & payroll. Outside of the office, you can find her on the sidelines of a soccer pitch, karting track, or baseball diamond, cheering on her two active boys. Seren is also a proud owner of two gentle giants, her beloved Great Danes. In her downtime, she channels her creativity into baking and decorating sugar cookies, always eager to experiment with new baked goods ideas and recipes. With her expertise in accounting and her passion for family, pets, and baking, Seren brings a unique blend of professionalism and warmth to our team.

Ivette Rivera

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT, FLORIDA

Ivette Rivera is our Executive Assistant at Level Accounting, juggling schedules and keeping things running smooth.

When she’s not crushing it at work, Ivette is an avid participant in her church community. As a mom, she’s all about those quality moments, whether it’s baking up a storm, hitting the water for some kayaking fun, or just chilling with a good book or binge-worthy show. And let’s not forget her partners in crime at home: Harley Quinn, the fridge-raiding pit bull, and Atlas, the cat who rules the roost. Ivette’s all about that balance between work hustle and personal bliss.