Recommended Service Professionals
I have my go to list of recommended energy balancing practitioners, but what about my recommendations for other amazing people in my life? We all need a list of recommended professionals in their fields, those we can count on for reputable and reliable business ethics, great customer service, reasonable fees, and excellent work habits. Having some go to professionals makes our lives that much easier in reducing our stress by providing necessary services.
The reward for great work is more work. The best kind of advertising is word of mouth and genuine personal testimonials. I like to support the entrepreneurial spirit of some of these hidden gems I have found in our community. Supporting local!
Honestly, finding reliable and reputable people these days can be quite daunting. I have had some pretty awful experiences in the past with poor service, damages, and exorbitant fees. I have dealt with less than integrous service persons, lack of effective communication, inefficiency, and over charging for poor workmanship. This causes undue stresses on top of the required service issues.
All the more reason to give shout outs and glowing recommendations to those whom I have found to be worth their weight in gold!
I am blessed to have found some spectacular people and I am pleased to recommend them to my friends, family, and clients. These are people I trust to uphold integrity and to offer equal value energy exchange in providing their services.
These are in Prince George BC Canada, my top-notch favorite contacts that I can count on anytime.
My personal shout outs:
Personal Care and Wellness:
Melissa Rioux, Honeybee Inspirations Creativity and Wellness. I am a pretty proud momma in supporting my daughter Melissa in her ongoing entrepreneurial endeavors. She is a Registered Reflexologist and a Usui ART Reiki Master, plus more! She offers her services through our home office location. See her page in this website here: https://ladybugwellness.ca/honeybee-inspirations/
Walk Rite Shoes. Ok, ok, my eldest daughter Chantelle manages the Prince George location so I am a little biased here, but SHOES!! They carry many high end brands that are feet pillows. I love my Reikers, Halflingers, and particularly my “artwork for your feet” Laura Vitas. You can order online or shop in Prince George, Quesnel, and Williams Lake locations. https://walkriteshoes.com/
Dr Terry Warawa, chiropractor. 250.562.2377 When I started my mail carrier position in 2002, I had many times injuries that put my back and shoulders out quite painfully. Dr Warawa is gentle and effective in getting my spine and body back into alignment. I have recommended him to numerous friends who have appreciated his services. Dr Warawa has a punny sense of humor and we always have some laughs when I go for my visits.
https://www.drwarawa.com/
Janelle’s Esthetics, 778.281.0564: Janelle operates out of her home. Professional, efficient, personable. She is the wonderful lady who keeps me de-fuzzified. Highly recommended for her waxing services.
https://www.facebook.com/janellesesthetics
While I am sending out shout outs on this page, I would like to acknowledge some amazing doctors I have appreciated over my years. They are effective and knowledgeable in their work, and personable as well in caring for me when I have needed them.
Dr Ian Schokking, Dr Kasandra Joss, Dr. Mitchell Webb. If you are in need of medical services, these are the doctors I highly recommend.
**Dr Pieter van Herk was my doctor for many years in my hometown. I think he may have retired now though.
Home Maintenance:
Bob Martin, PG Gasco. Bob has installed my hot water tank and furnace. He has been wonderful for emergency calls when needed and shows up when he says he will, as he can accommodate his clients. Bob used to drive cab and I met him years ago when I was a mail carrier. Fascinatingly, one of our first conversations when he installed my hot water tank, was all about the energetic implications of the numeral 8 in his invoice fees. He was impressed that I noticed the metaphysical philosophy.
250-612-7004
Christopher Fagan, FNA Services Ltd. 250.631.1114
“Construction Company, Carpenter, Demolition & Excavation Company, Snow Removal, Hot Shot/ Deliveries, Landscaping, Trailer Rental, Civil and Infrastructure Experts. Serving residential and commercial clients in Prince George and surrounding areas”.
Prior to February 2022, I had been quite frustrated with trying to find a reliable and effective plow service that could accommodate a small home business for regular service. Turns out Chris is from my home town Terrace BC. He has proven to be reliable, conscientious, and effective for snow removal and keeping our driveway safe for our clients.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555598010411
2024: Nick Goldney came to us through FNA Services to replace and rebuild a patio and deck with stairs in our back yard which leads to Melissa’s Honeybee Inspirations office. I have been super impressed with Nick’s work ethics and knowledge in getting this project done professionally.
Nick is a man I definitely will be keeping in my fave contacts for any construction and repair type jobs around my home. I intend to keep him busy with word-of-mouth recommendations!
He is skilled, organized, meticulous, and great at problem solving which are essential traits for a highly sought handyman.
Nick @ FNA Services Ltd.: 778.345.4591
Dave at Sparkle Kleen. Carpet cleaning. 250.561.1699. I hired Dave a few times in the past and he has come through as reliable, efficient, and personable. My carpets were night and day difference after his work.
Unfortunately, I tried out another company in 2021, using a gift certificate. That was a poor experience with a review gone horribly wrong. I had shared on social media, but moved that review here: https://ladybugwellness.ca/reviews-gone-bad-a-business-ethics-experience/
Yes, Dave has seen this review as I continue to promote his services and reasons why I won’t go with anyone else ever again.
Krysta May Dyble. Owner at Bright Beginnings Cleaning, Painting, Staging and Design
I hired Krysta and her team to deep clean our home office space before a training weekend. I was pleasantly surprised at how shiny and sanitized my home became. Seriously impressed and grateful to have found someone so conscientious in their cleaning skills. After checking out her Facebook page, I realized she is also a Life Coach and has several insightful posts I recommend checking out.
My FB Post: I just had Krysta and her team in for a deep clean today.
I am impressed. They say they will get your home sparkling, and they do!!!
They got right in the corners and made everything shine. The energy in here feels amazing!”
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556792103764
2024: Look for Krysta out at PGARA racetrack with hit to pass and local sponsors.
Tom Muxlow, appliance repair. Tom repairs washers and dryers mainly. I followed up on a social media tag when my washer broke down a few years ago. He has since fixed my appliances and a few other minor repairs. He retired from a day job and now is busier than ever because everyone seems to tag him on social media as the go to guru for washers and dryers.
250.612.8952
Bill Johnson Stump Grinding: 250.613.6824
https://www.facebook.com/PGBill
From FB post July 19 2020: Jackie N. Rioux: Had a quote done from someone else, a while ago for a stump in the back yard, behind carport and close to my shed. Was told a big production to get it out. Last Friday it took mere minutes to get it out with a perfect sized machine. And reasonable cost. Thank you so much!!
Bill Johnson Stump Grinding: Thanks for the eggnog bread. So tasty!
Business Connections:
Creative Outdoor Advertising is responsible for the Bench Signs that you see at the bus stops in Prince George.
Having a Creative Outdoor Advertising Bench Sign implants thoughts, sharpens your identity and states a brief message giving you huge credibility and reminding your potential customers who you are… every day!
https://www.CreativeOutdoor.com/
Ladybug Wellness has two benches in Prince George. One at Spruceland Mall and one at 5th and Ospika by the firehall.
Real Estate Investors/ Acquisition Specialists: I had been involved with StoryAthlete entrepreneurial community from April of 2020 to January 2024. Founded by Ryan Fletcher, this is a select group of individuals striving to be in the 5% populace who uphold integrity, accountability, and responsibility for self and others in the highest regard. I have connected with numerous entrepreneurial friends here. I have been involved in the main community and in GRIT, the monthly challenge of integrating Mind, Body, Business, Relationships. You will find my GRIT daily writings here: https://ladybugwellness.ca/a-story-athlete-grit-jrioux/
Impact Club is the Partner community of Story Athlete where they invest in assisting families though buying homes for cash. Yes, this is all legit and they are wonderful people that look for a win-win situation every time.
This link is to contact Ryan France, one of the top Partners. He can put you in touch with other Partners in your area.
https://www.texashousepartners.com/helping-families
Prince George Small Business Network: 2023: Laurie Niedermayer and Carol Surbey, two of my local friends/ business associates created this Facebook group here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/princegeorgesmallbusinessnetwork
They had regular business luncheons and meetings to encourage connecting with other small business entrepreneurs but now just have the Facebook group.
This was my interview within that group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/princegeorgesmallbusinessnetwork/posts/317698274453034/
Laurie started her own YouTube channel.
This is my interview there: https://youtu.be/1bBKDtJVpdI?si=eNqzi2qcQPJUOoI-
Just a good share:
The Currency of Leadership is TRUST. If people don’t trust you, they won’t follow you.
Here are 11 ways to build trust…
1. Say what you are going to do and then do what you say!
2. Communicate, communicate, communicate. Frequent, honest communication builds trust. Poor communication is one of the key reasons marriages and work relationships fall apart.
3. Trust is built one day, one interaction at a time, and yet it can be lost in a moment because of one poor decision. Make the right decision.
4. Value long term relationships more than short term success.
5. Sell without selling out. Focus more on your core principles and customer loyalty than short term commissions and profits.
6. Trust generates commitment; commitment fosters teamwork; and teamwork delivers results. When people trust their team members they not only work harder, but they work harder for the good of the team.
7. Be honest! My mother always told me to tell the truth. She would say, “If you lie to me then we can’t be a strong family. So don’t ever lie to me even if the news isn’t good.”
8. Become a coach. Coach your customers. Coach your team at work. Guide people, help them be better and you will earn their trust.
9. Show people you care about them. When people know you care about their interests as much as your own they will trust you. If they know you are out for yourself, their internal alarm sounds and they will say to themselves “watch out for that person.”
10. Always do the right thing. We trust those who live, walk and work with integrity.
11. When you don’t do the right thing, admit it. Be transparent, authentic and willing to share your mistakes and faults. When you are vulnerable and have nothing to hide you radiate trust.
Financial Affairs:
IG Private Wealth Management, Terry Paziuk and Jaymie Koehler. 250.565.8100. Back when I was taking my first energy balancing courses, I had been introduced to Terry and Jaymie as recommended financial management planners. Franzi’s recommendation has paid off tremendously as these two have taken care of my investments, retirement, and mortgage needs for many years. Although located in Prince George, I know they serve a wider area. Inquire about your location and needs.
https://www.paziukandassociates.com/
Taxes/ accounting: Terry and Jaymie take care of all my financial needs. I do most of my own bookkeeping with Excel documents. See free downloads page for the template I use.
I had a poor experience with an inefficient bookkeeper in early 2024, but have found a new person so I am trusting this will become a recommended connection.
Credit Counselling Society of BC
Back in the late 90s, I had gone through a divorce and was left with a ton of debt. I contacted and worked with Scott Hannah. They have an intake to decide your best course of action. I remember filling out all the paperwork and he told me he shouldn’t take me on because the numbers just don’t work. However, I explained my situation and that I was determined to not let a man put me in the ground over this mountain of debt. He took me on only because of this attitude.
It took 5 years but I succeeded. President & CEO Scott Hannah called me personally to congratulate me in finishing their program.
They had done debt consolidation for me and got all creditors off my back. Years later, close to my retirement, they assisted me again in getting my finances straightened out. It was then that I found out I was one of Scott Hannah’s original cases and “my story” has been one they use for training their staff and as an example for their clients.
I highly recommend Credit Counselling Society of BC. They are amazing! Note: Scott Hannah retired in 2023.
https://www.nomoredebts.org/
Superstore/ Loblaws Flashfood. Ok, this isn’t really a hidden local gem, but definitely worth mentioning here as a recommendation. Get the “Flashfood” app and use my code JACKXSZV to get $5 off your first $10 purchase. This is a great way to find soon dated or discontinued deals on anything you can imagine from these stores. We have filled our freezer with Flashfood deals. With the cost of food these days, this recommendation is its own hidden gem.
Another good information share:
This information is for those of you who don’t have your affairs in order. Make sure all bank accounts have direct beneficiaries. The beneficiary need only go to the bank with your death certificate and an ID of their own.
– TOD = Transfer On Death deed if you own a home. Completing this document and filing it with the court saves your heirs thousands. This document allows you to transfer ownership of your home to your designee. All they need to do is take their ID and your Death Certificate and they will then have the deed signed over. Doing this will avoid the home having to go through probate.
– Living Will: Allows one to put in writing exactly what you want done in the event you cannot speak for yourself when it comes to healthcare decisions.
– Durable Power of Attorney: Allows one to designate a person to make legal decisions if one is no longer competent to do so.
– Power of Attorney for Healthcare: This document allows one to designate someone to make healthcare decisions for their person.
– Last Will and Testament: Designates to whom personal belongings will go too.
– Funeral Planning Declaration: States one’s wishes as far as disposition of the body and the service/s.
– If the above documents are completed, you can AVOID probate. If all the above is not done, you have to open an estate account at the bank. All money that doesn’t have direct beneficiaries goes into this account. You have to have your executor to open the estate account. The executor also has to publicize your death in the newspaper or post publication at the courthouse, to allow anyone to make a claim on your property. – It’s a complete nuisance.
– Make a list of all banks and account numbers, all investment institutions with account numbers, lists of credit cards, utility accounts, etc. Leave clear instructions as to how and when these things are paid. Make sure heirs knows where life insurance policies are located.
– Make 100% sure SOMEONE knows your Apple ID, bank ID account logins and passwords!
– Make sure you have titles for all automobiles, campers, motorcycles etc.
– MOST IMPORTANTLY! – Talk with those closest to you and make all your wishes KNOWN. Talk to those whom you’ve designated, as well as those close to you whom you did not designate. – Do this to explain why your decisions were made and to avoid any lingering questions or hurt feelings.
Hope this lights a spark to encourage all your friends and family to take care of these things and to make it easier for those we all leave behind. There is no template for these documents. Please do not waste your time contacting me for such. I do not have any, or any to give away, or for sale, because these are quite simply, written documents, in your own words, and an exercise in just instructing your wishes to be carried out in detail in plain English.
The above list at least helps you start an important conversation with your loved ones.
Vehicle Maintenance:
Craftsman Collision with locations across Western Canada. My SIL Larry was a manager with Craftsman Collision for 17 years until he passed in 2018. The owners, the Hatswell family, treated Larry like a son and an essential part of their family. Craftsman has 40 years of experience and locations across BC.
In Prince George, there are 2 locations. In 2019, we dealt with manager Mirsad at Craftsman Queensway Autobody when my moms car needed service.
Mirsad remembered Larry, having met him once at a manager’s conference. He is a wonderful person to deal with and Craftsman is an excellent reputable company.
https://craftsmancollision.com/
Darcy/ Kirk Baker, heavy duty mechanic. Kirk is a childhood friend from grade school days. He currently (2023) lives in Hope BC. Find him at Tri-West along Silver Skaggit Road. He has rescued me a few times whenever I have needed a vehicle check when I am in the Vancouver area. I try to visit him, his mom, and wife any time I am in the area otherwise as well.
Jefferey Dyrblom, mechanic. I had worked with his dad Anders at the post office for several years, and modeled with his mom eons ago in local fashion shows. I met Jeff at a Toastmasters reunion meeting in 2010. His mom, Stella, is also an energy balancing practitioner so Jeff is well versed in my energy practitioner language.
My former mechanic Quentin had moved away, so Jeff has been my mechanic since then moving from a few shops to currently the Nissan dealership. I have had to request him specifically and pay shop rates, but he is worth it.
Jeff has been my road angel for a long time, making sure my Uplander minivan was safe before heading out on my spontaneous road trips.
250.561.8797
July 2024: My new truck is a Ford F150 with an extensive maintenance package, so now I go to Ford dealership for vehicle maintenance. I still recommend Jeff as he has been a great friend for many years.
Daryll at Major Muffler and Brake 250.612.5100. Jeff recommended Daryll when he was not available to work on my van himself. Daryll came through with great work and customer service. Small shop with big heart and soul, and old school service. https://majormuffler.ca/
Drive by Tire, Herb Vautour 778.281.3278: That huge green and black cube van driving around town is Herb with Drive by Tire. I connected with him through my friend Tammy several years ago as he is her relative.
Herb is prompt, efficient, and comes to my home to change over my tires each season. He even collects the tires from my shed.
Drive By Tire: Facebook: October 31 2022: Thank you Jackie Rioux from Ladybug Wellness, for keeping us fed with fresh out of the oven baked goods. It really hit the spot!
https://www.facebook.com/drivebytireservice
Dear Friends and Honorable Mentions:
Aubrey Grace. I have known Aubrey since kindergarten. In 2012, after a conversation about his web design hobby, he revamped my website and has been hosting my site ever since. He taught me how to fix some things, but he is my man behind the scenes that takes care of this website for me. He also built Melissa’s Honeybee website.
2024: Aubrey is now the “Farm Assessment guy” so he is not building websites anymore, but I want to acknowledge and appreciate his service all these years anyway.
Birgit Allgaier, Into the Minds of Hands Photography.
Have you seen any of our promotional photos for Ladybug Wellness and Honeybee Inspirations? This is the amazing work of Birgit Allgaier!! She has an exceptional eye for detail and her specialty is close up working hands. In some of our photos, she even managed to catch what looks like energy exchange. Fascinating!
Birgit also specializes in other photography, foraging, and natural foods. A very inspirational person I am honored to know and follow. She is also a fantastic facilitator for local events and workshops. I quite enjoyed her Moonfest event in May 2023, and an intimate solstice meditation event as well. Looking forward to more 🙂
Check out some of her work here: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066935994365
Danny Arronge, to be honest, I have not yet personally used Danny’s RV rental service, but I recommend him here because I have known him on a personal level for many years. Danny has had the shuttle contract with the post office for as long as I worked there. When I worked the registration position at Station A, Danny and I had numerous conversations while we unloaded his shuttle truck. I also worked with his amazing wife Kirby out at the sorting plant. Because of Danny’s involvement with our local racetrack PGARA, and knowing I had a bucket list dream to drive a race car, he let me drive his car around the track, then I was taken for a real fast ride around the track as well.
I cannot say enough about these two in promoting their business and any endeavours they put their minds to as they are both conscientious, ethical, reasonable, and just all around fun people to work with and to spend time with. Campfires and visits have been a fun memory as well.
https://www.triparrvrentals.com/
Jessi Bell: Jessi has been a family friend for eons (my daughter’s school mate). She is a “Jessi of all trades”, a MacGyver type of handyperson. She has authored books, created artisan crafts, she is a veterinarian technician, and a hunter.
The most current endeavors are spruce tip syrup, artisan crafts, and painting canvases with her trusty sidekick pup, Cody.
Find Jessi’s products at Raven Gifts in Terrace BC, and the farmer’s market there.
“Cody Paints” https://www.facebook.com/codypaintsart
https://www.instagram.com/cody_the_painting_doggo
https://www.instagram.com/codypaintsgallery/
Tim Goggins, Tim’s Tags and Engraving: I have a couple amazing travel mugs with my Ladybug Wellness info engraved on them, plus I have angels, Metatron symbol and the Flower of Life, all from my dear friend Tim.
Check out his website for all products available: https://timstags.net/
Tim is also a fellow Reiki practitioner and energy balancing practitioner.