Let’s be honest—running a paint-your-own pottery studio is an art in itself. You’re balancing creativity, community, and cash flow all at once. But what if I told you that the biggest threat to your studio’s success isn’t a slow season or a kiln malfunction—it’s your accountant?
That’s right. The wrong accountant could be quietly draining your profits, suffocating your growth, and keeping your business from reaching its full potential. So, how do you know if your accountant is holding you back? Let’s dive into the three types of accountants most business owners deal with—and which one is actually worth keeping.
This accountant plays it painfully safe. Their strategy? Avoid any deduction or tax credit that might raise even the faintest eyebrow at the IRS. While that sounds like a smart approach, here’s the problem: playing it too safe often means you’re leaving thousands of dollars on the table—money that could be reinvested into your business.
If your accountant frequently says, “Let’s not claim that, just to be safe,” it’s time to reconsider. Being too cautious could be costing you way more than an audit ever would.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is the accountant who takes every deduction imaginable—and then some. Did you take a vacation? Well, let’s call it a "business retreat." Bought a new couch for your house? Sounds like an office expense! While this might look like a win in the short term, it’s risky. If the IRS catches wind of these questionable tactics, you could face hefty penalties, sleepless nights, and a tax nightmare that makes a pottery glaze explosion seem like a minor inconvenience.
If your accountant treats tax deductions like a game of limbo (“How low can we go?”), you might be in trouble. Short-term wins aren’t worth long-term risks.
This is the accountant you actually want—the one who operates in the sweet spot between ultra-conservative and overly aggressive. They know the tax code inside and out and use it to your advantage while keeping everything compliant.
They understand the unique needs of a paint-your-own pottery studio, like claiming deductions for kiln repairs, studio supplies, class materials, and even depreciation on equipment. They maximize your savings without crossing into IRS danger zones, helping you keep more money in your business and fueling long-term growth.
✅ Balances tax strategy and compliance✅ Helps you claim every dollar legally available to you✅ Understands the financial needs of a creative, event-driven studio✅ Saves you thousands annually while keeping your business audit-proof
If your accountant isn’t actively helping you grow, they’re holding you back. Taxes are one of your biggest expenses, but they don’t have to be a financial drain. The right accountant can free up thousands of dollars each year—money you could use to expand your product lines, host better events, or simply build a stronger financial cushion.
Your competition is growing. Your expenses are rising. Don’t let outdated accounting strategies keep you from reaching your full potential.
If you’re not confident your accountant is saving you every dollar they can, it’s time to take a closer look. Your studio deserves an accountant who understands your business inside and out—one that helps you thrive, not just survive.
Book a consultation with PYOP Accounting today, and let’s turn your studio into the profitable, thriving business it’s meant to be!
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Donna Bordeaux, CPA with PYOPAccounting.com
Creativity and CPAs don’t generally go together. Most people think of CPAs as nerdy accountants who can’t talk with people. Well, it’s time to break that stereotype. Lively, friendly, and knowledgeable can be a part of your relationship with your CPA, as demonstrated by Donna and Chad Bordeaux. They have over 50 years of combined experience as entrepreneurial CPAs. They’ve owned businesses and helped business owners exceed their wildest dreams. They have been able to help businesses earn many times more profit than the average business in the same industry and are passionate about helping industries that help families build great memories.
