We bring balance & structure
to your business.
MEET CINDY
Cindy Bartlett is the owner of Brilliant Business Solutions Inc., offering thoughtful, reliable bookkeeping to law firms, businesses of all sizes, non-profits, and individuals across Vancouver Island.
With over 26 years of experience in legal accounting — and deep knowledge of PC Law, Unity Legal, and Law Society of BC trust regulations — Cindy helps her clients stay compliant and confident, with systems that actually make sense.
As a small business owner herself, she understands how important it is to have support you can count on. She brings that same care and clarity to every client relationship.
Cindy is also a part-owner and facilitator of Living in Balance, a business program that empowers women entrepreneurs to grow their work with purpose, community, and heart.
When she’s not working, you’ll find her with family — she’s a proud mom of three, grandmother to eight, and step-grandmother to three more.
Brilliant Business Solutions Inc. specializes in Sage 50 software for their bookkeeping clients. This software really meets the needs of small businesses and all of their accounting requirements.
Having trained for four years with H & R Block, Cindy offers income tax services for most individuals and self-employed people. With her experience and training, Cindy can handle all but the absolute most complicated tax issues - and even those she doesn't, she knows where to refer people so they are well cared for. As a member of Nanaimo Executive Association, Cindy spends many hours volunteering as the Treasurer. This comes with an understanding that Boards don't always focus completely on their accounting and Cindy is ready to step in.
Cindy receives business coaching from Living in Balance Seminars Association as well as being a mentor, facilitator, and now part-owner in this program. It's her way of giving back to the young entrepreneurs who are joining the program to build their business and their wealth.
This unique program is for women Entrepreneurs, to create an empowering, positive context and foundation to build and lead their businesses, profession, vision and relationships with purpose, power, heart and balance. They acquire the tools to have success, wealth and freedom doing what they love, with the connection and support of like-minded women in the Living in Balance space. To empower your success by increasing prosperity with balance in your business, kindly contact Cindy for more information.
Cindy also has an ownership interest in Bowen Auto Repair, which gives her a unique perspective on the working of small, vibrant businesses in Nanaimo.
If you have questions for Cindy, or would like to connect with the Brilliant team, please get in touch. We love hearing from you.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
Brilliant Business Solutions is the leader in bookkeeping services providing law firms and businesses with accurately documented records. In addition, we provide individuals, partnerships and corporations with professional income tax services.
In return, Brilliant Business Solutions receives ongoing committed clients, an abundance of referrals and five-star reviews.
Meet our Brilliant Team
Elaine Brown
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Elaine joined Brilliant Business Solutions Inc. in November 2015, bringing a steadfast dedication to delivering exceptional service to her clients. During her 13 years with a long-established business services company up-island, she advanced from reception to progressively more responsible roles, showcasing her adaptability and expertise.
While pursuing bookkeeping courses through Thompson Rivers University, Elaine transitioned into bookkeeping and eventually moved to Nanaimo. Over the past 20 years, she has provided top-tier bookkeeping services to various small businesses and non-profits, specializing in government remittances and payroll.
Elaine continually enhances her skills and is proficient in QuickBooks Pro, QuickBooks Online, and Sage 50. She is known for her meticulous approach, ensuring compliance with government filing deadlines. Additionally, Elaine is the team’s T1 personal and self-employed income tax expert, renowned for her knack for maximizing tax returns.
Sandra Dutchak
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Sandra joined the Brilliant Business Solutions team in May 2017, bringing 20 years of extensive experience in the retail and restaurant industries. Her expertise spans setting up bookkeeping systems for self-employed businesses, managing complex records for high-volume operations, and working with non-profit organizations and societies.
Sandra is proficient in Sage 50, QuickBooks, PC Law, Unity, and Clio software, making her an invaluable resource for law firms. She has also completed corporate tax preparation training, enabling her to expertly handle year-end tax filings for small business clients.
Known for her sharp sense of humor and dedication, Sandra provides accurate, efficient, and cost-effective services. She is also an expert in payroll management, further enhancing her versatility and value to the team.
Aileen Herkel
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Aileen joined the Brilliant Business Solutions team in October 2024, bringing with her 25 years of expertise in full-cycle bookkeeping and year-end financials for a diverse array of businesses. Known for her dedication to client success, Aileen combines a sharp eye for detail with strong problem-solving skills to help businesses achieve financial clarity and growth. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Management from Vancouver Island University, giving her a solid foundation in both financial and managerial principles.
Aileen is excited to work alongside Brilliant Business clients, knowing that her support enables them to focus on expanding their businesses while she oversees the financial side. Her commitment to accuracy and efficiency ensures that clients can make informed, data-driven decisions.
Outside of the office, Aileen enjoys gardening and spending cherished moments with her family, embracing the balance between her professional and personal life.
Stefanie Bartlett
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Stefanie Bartlett joined Brilliant Business Solutions in October 2022, bringing with her over 20 years of experience in law firm environments and a reputation for reliability, professionalism and integrity. In 2009. She completed the Applied Business Technology program with an accounting specialty at Vancouver Island University. For the past 12 years, she has excelled in administrative and data entry roles, demonstrating attention to detail, strong time management skills, and an ability to prioritize under pressure.
Stefanie is also a graduate of the BOLD leadership program through the Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), where she developed leadership skills that she applies daily to implement a positive and productive workplace culture. With her extensive knowledge of the LEAN office methodology, Stefanie actively seeks ways to streamline processes, enhance accuracy and increase efficiency, benefiting both the Brilliant Business team and its clients.
Outside of work, Stefanie is a dedicated mother of three and enjoys being an avid participant in her local softball league.
Are you ready to take control of your business so that you can enjoy the fun stuff in life?
Our expertise provides peace of mind that you can rely on.

