So you’ve started a small business. Maybe it’s just you, a dream, and a really nice coffee mug. You’re hustling, serving clients, selling your magic—and then bam, tax season hits, and suddenly you’re googling “What even is bookkeeping??”
Welcome. I’m Axel, Countess of Accounting, and I’m here to make sure your books don’t look like a crime scene.
What Is Bookkeeping (And No, It’s Not Just for Big Companies)
Bookkeeping is simply the process of keeping track of what money comes in, what money goes out, and where it all went. It’s the financial diary of your business—and trust me, the IRS wants receipts.
Why You Need It
Even if you’re a one-human show, bookkeeping helps you:
- Know if you’re actually making money (Not just “busy,” but profitable)
- Prepare for taxes without panic attacks
- Separate business and personal expenses (No, that Target run doesn’t count)
- Make decisions with confidence (“Can I afford to hire help?” becomes less of a vibe check)
How to Start (Without Burning Sage)
- Open a separate bank account
Step away from your personal debit card. It’s time to give your business its own wallet. - Pick a system
Spreadsheet? QuickBooks? Wave? Choose something you’ll actually use. (Start simple. You’re not filing IPOs—yet.) - Track everything
Record income and expenses regularly. Weekly is best. Monthly is okay. Yearly is… yikes. - Keep your receipts
Digital is fine. Snap photos, save PDFs, and name them like a grown-up. - Review your numbers
Look at your profit and loss each month. Celebrate wins. Adjust the weird stuff.
Need Help?
If this all still sounds like a lot, that’s what I’m here for. Whether you want to DIY it with a little guidance or hand it off completely, the Countess has your back.
