Appletree Business Services: Our Team
Patrick has been helping small businesses grow for +10 years. After a few years in small business advising, he kept seeing the need for better bookkeeping and cashflow management. Ultimately he loved the team and systems at Appletree that deliver a superb client experience.
Patrick earned his BSBA in International Business and Finance, then went on to complete his MBA at University of Denver. He spent years at a small business marketing startup, then a small business advisory firm.
He is a self proclaimed business geek and obsessed with helping small businesses grow faster. He lives in Dover, New Hampshire with his wife Brie and 3 boys. Patrick enjoys fly fishing, skiing and podcasts.
Rekha is too busy helping the entire team so we wrote her bio for her.
Rekha has a long history of working in small business accounting from Staff Accountant to Onboarding Lead. She joined Appletree in 2022 and has been instrumental in streamlining onboarding and accounting procedures. She lives in New Hampshire and spends her weekends keeping up with her son Advay's cross country, volunteering, engineering and Eagle Scout endeavors.
Wendy joined the team at Appletree Business services in September 2018.
A graduate of Southern New Hampshire University with a BA in Accounting, Wendy enjoys the challenge and reward of working with small business owners. Prior to working at Appletree, Wendy was a bookkeeper in the Londonderry School District. She also has a background in Cost Analysis, Office administration and management. Additionally, should any of us get sick, Wendy is a certified Licensed Nursing Assistant, so we’ll run to her for advice when we get the sniffles!
Wendy enjoys spending time with her family of 4 as well as her friends and very large (but close-knit) extended family. She loves the beach, cooking, crafting, writing, and is always interested in learning new things!
Steve has been in the Accounting industry for over 30 years. He founded Appletree Business Services in 1988.
After graduating from Bryant University majoring in both Accounting and Systems Management, Steve worked for Price Waterhouse for 8 years as an auditor and computer consultant before branching off on his own. He thrives on keeping the firm technologically on target and at least one step ahead of his clients.
Many will recognize Steve from his performances at the Majestic Theater in Manchester. If you ask, he’ll even show you a copy of his review in the Nashua Telegraph! You can find him posting on blog.appletreebusiness.com and on Twitter as CPASteve. Recently married, he and Karen Aagesen enjoy each other’s company, travel, and their 3 cats.
Brendan Hopkinson joined Appletree Business Services in 2025 as Sales Manager. A lifelong resident of New Hampshire, Brendan brings over a decade of experience working with small businesses in a variety of capacities, including payroll and retirement benefits. His background has given him a strong understanding of the challenges business owners face and the solutions that help them succeed.
Outside of work, Brendan enjoys golfing, spending time with his family, and watching football. An animal lover, he shares his home with a dog and a pet potbelly pig, who keep life both lively and entertaining. Brendan is excited to bring his experience and passion for helping businesses to the Appletree team.
Prior to working for Appletree Business Services, Anne has extensive experience in retail, having run a 7 million a year department in a large retail store, in addition to helping manage and run a small family business.
Anne spends her weekends driving her 2 children up and down the east coast for soccer games. If there's a soccer game, there's a pretty good chance that Anne is either at it or watching it (Barclay's and Manchester United). She enjoys doing yoga, sipping wine and walking her Jack Russel Terrier.
Jack Donius is a CFP® professional and Wealth Management Advisor at Appletree Financial Services, where he specializes in comprehensive financial planning, investment management, retirement planning, and wealth preservation strategies for individuals and families.
Prior to joining Appletree, Jack spent five years advising high-net-worth clients and developing personalized financial plans designed to support their long-term financial goals. He graduated magna cum laude from Providence College and holds the CFP® designation along with additional industry credentials.
Jack lives in Boston with his fiancée, Kelly. Outside of work, he enjoys playing and following sports including basketball, golf, and tennis, traveling, and staying current on trends and developments within the financial planning industry.
Paul joined Appletree Business Services in November 2007.
Paul earned degrees in Physics, Computer Science, and Accounting from Princeton University, State University of New York at Stony Brook, and Franklin Pierce College. His employment experience includes technical work in the software industry, business management in the masonry manufacturing industry, and tax work in the public accounting industry.
Paul enjoys sports, outdoor activities, and travel with his wife and kids. When the weather is rotten he prefers to stay at home reading business journals and IRS regulations.
Carreen is a seasoned accountant with diverse work experience that includes working with small business owners in various industries. She is a proud Florida Gator with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Florida.
Carreen is the treasurer of the Little Island Pond Association where you can find her kayaking, paddle boarding or enjoying the view with a nice cocktail.
Karley is a dedicated Accounting Manager with a passion for numbers and a proven track record in the world of accounting. She earned her Business Degree from Florida Atlantic University, where she developed a solid understanding of the corporate landscape.
Beyond her professional achievements, Karley is a firm advocate for leading a balanced and fulfilling life. She finds joy in maintaining an active lifestyle and prioritizing her health. When she’s not crunching numbers, you can find Karley cherishing quality moments with her loving husband and daughter. Her appreciation for family time underscores her commitment to nurturing meaningful relationships both in and outside the office.
As an Enrolled Agent, he brings extensive expertise to the team. His educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a master’s degree in accounting/finance from Southern New Hampshire University.
Before joining Appletree, Dan spent 14 years working as a tax accountant, accumulating valuable tax and accounting experience. His overall accounting career spans more than 20 years, demonstrating his commitment and depth of knowledge.
Beyond his professional life, Dan enjoys hiking and cherishes quality time spent with friends and family.
David joined Appletree Business Services in January 2023.
David earned degrees in Digital Media and Accounting Maine Schools, including the University of Maine, Presque Isle. His employment experience includes aviation administrative work, classroom instruction, and accounting experience.
David enjoys reading and writing in ancient Hebrew and Greek, travel by road or air, and living near the ocean.
Rebeca holds a MS in Accounting from Fitchburg University and has accumulated a decade of experience in the field. Her career spans various industries such as manufacturing, professional services, Real Estate and government.
Outside of work, Rebeca enjoys quality time with her family and has a keen interest in traveling to beautiful beaches and resorts. Staying active is also a priority for her, as she values exercise as part of her routine.
Diane has extensive experience working together with small businesses, providing common sense advice to help them improve their financial position. Diane has a history in the fields of construction, medical services, and Public Accounting industries. She has a Bachelor of Business Administration with a Major in Accounting from Northeastern State University. Diane has served as a senior tax accountant with several reputable CPA firms and as a financial director for a large medical practice before joining Appletree.
Diane has been married for 14 years to her husband Mike. They have five children and nine grandchildren. In her spare time, she loves spending time with family, traveling, playing with her two dogs and horseback riding.
Rachel brings a wealth of experience in small business and personal tax preparation, bookkeeping, and compliance to Appletree. She is a former Soldier and attended American Military University studying Accounting and Business Management. Residing in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, Rachel cherishes time spent with her family, friends, and a delightful array of animals, including ducks, chickens, a cat named Meow, and three dogs Bruce Wayne, Jack Jack and Sir Remington.
Brent Johnson is a 2013 graduate of the University of the Cumberlands, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Since 2012, Brent has worked closely with small to medium-sized businesses, specializing in Management Reporting and Analysis. His focus has been helping business owners gain clarity and confidence in their numbers, enabling stronger decision-making and long-term success.
Brent’s background also includes working with large, multi-location organizations to implement meaningful financial reporting systems and build proactive tax strategies that align with their operational goals.
A resident of a small town just outside of Knoxville, TN, Brent is a dedicated family man with four children who keep him on the go. When he’s not digging into financials, you’ll likely find him at the ball field cheering on his oldest boys in whatever sport is in season. A true Tennessean at heart, Brent is a proud and passionate Vols fan through and through.
Thomas is an experienced accounting manager who specializes in working with small businesses across diverse industries, including dentistry, legal and professional firms, manufacturing, and more. Originally from Southern Utah, Thomas earned his Bachelor?s degree in Accounting from Utah Tech University and later moved to Oregon, where he continues to provide financial expertise and strategic guidance to his clients.
Outside of the office, Thomas enjoys exploring Oregon?s outdoors, visiting the coast, traveling the world, catching up with family and friends, and spending time with his two small dogs.
When calling Appletree, one of the friendly voices answering the phone might just be Karen M. She joined us in June 2021 as an Office Support Specialist.
Karen graduated from Bridgewater State University with a Bachelors in Communications and Psychology. She is also a certified Orthopaedic Technician, so we know who to limp to when we trip up!
Prior to working for Appletree, Karen had a history of working for several financial institutions, making her well rounded for Office Support in our firm. No doubt she'll keep us all in order!
Karen's hobbies include reading, puzzles, family adventures, the beach and playing Minecraft.
Courtney started with Appletree in August 2017.
Prior to working for Appletree Business Services, Courtney helped to start and manage small businesses for over 14 years. She understands the trials and tribulations of running a small business day to day.
Courtney enjoys visiting new places, whether it’s the next town, state, or country. She also loves spending time with friends and family, especially with her son, cooking delicious meals, and being outdoors.
Back in high school it didn’t take long for Robin to see she had a knack for numbers and loved accounting. Life took her in another direction as she raised a family and worked in administrative support roles in the medical and legal field. Needless to say, she jumped at the chance to join the Appletree team. She brings knowledge of the day to day operations of healthcare facilities and law offices.
With two teenage boys at home there is never a dull moment. On the rare occasion that Robin has spare time, she enjoys reading, photography, visiting craft breweries, and spending time with friends and family. A lifelong resident of New Hampshire she loves the beach, the lakes, hiking, and skiing. Sunrises are quite possibly her favorite thing!
Kristyne has her Associates Degree in Business Management and started her Accounting Career at a car leasing company in Plymouth Massachusetts where she was born and raised. She worked for a car dealership for 12 years with roles as Manager and Comptroller for two locations. In 1992 she and her husband purchased a small outdoor power equipment company they ran together. Kristyne kept her full-time job at the dealership while her husband quit his job and focused on the day-to-day. After 3 years of doing both jobs, Kristyne left the car business and went full-time with her husband. They owned and operated this business for 28 years and grew it from 0 to 44 employees with Kristyne in charge of all the HR and financial responsibilities of the business. She also does all the bookkeeping for several commercial properties they own so has a good understanding of rents, leases and commercial financing. Because of her love of numbers and reconciling, she enjoys doing accounting for small businesses and watching them grow and succeed.
In her down time she loves boating and traveling with her husband, 2 daughters and other family and friends.
Drew joined the Appletree Business Services team in fall 2022 with the acquisition of The Prestige Journal.
After attending the Univerity of Denver, Drew started a career in high-tech both in software and hardware, ranging from start-ups to Fortune 100 companies. He has settled in with Appletree helping clients with accounts payable and receivables and special projects in data migration and presentation.
In his spare time Drew enjoys spending time in the Rocky Mountains, hiking, relaxing and reading! Then he escapes to travel around the US as much as possible.
Kirsten spent nearly 20 years in the service industry developing customer service skills, making critical-thinking decisions in real time, and problem solving. She is highly organized, detail-oriented, and multi-tasks with confidence. With a humble attitude towards learning and a passion for working with a wide range of cultures and personalities, she started at Appletree in May of 2023. She’s excited for the opportunity to bring these skills into a profession better suited to her long-term goals and family circumstances.
She leads a very active life. The view from the top of a mountain is an addiction she feeds through snowboarding, hiking and biking. Or you can find her near the water, on a beach or a paddleboard. Teaching her young family the power of volunteerism and cultivating meaningful relationships gives her focus and joy.
Jacquelyn is an experienced bookkeeper with a background in Accounts Receivable. Previously to Appletree she worked at Cintas Corporation for several years as well as part time with a small business as a bookkeeper. She has a bachelor’s in accounting from Lakeland University in Wisconsin.
Outside of work Jacquelyn enjoys backyard BBQs with family and friends and watching the Green Bay Packers.
Ashley is a dedicated professional with a background in sales and insurance. Known for a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, has made for a great match as a Staff accountant at Appletree.
In Ashley's free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and three kids. With a passion for traveling especially in locations near the ocean.
Mahrah is a Payroll specialist who started with Appletree in 2023. Prior to joining the company, she had multiple years of experience processing payroll with various US companies.
When not at work, Mahrah is a passionate photographer. She aims to capture timeless images that preserve beautiful memories.
Alexis is a New Hampshire native and a recent graduate of Franklin Pierce University. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting/Finance concentrating in Accounting, followed by a Master of Science in Accounting. Throughout her college years, she was a dedicated student-athlete, competing on the women’s golf team. Her experience on the team instilled in her a strong sense of discipline and teamwork. Growing up in a family business, she developed a deep understanding of hard work and the importance of financial skills. This background has greatly influenced her professional approach and dedication to accounting. Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time on the golf course, relaxing on the lake, and spending quality time with her family and friends.
Natalie joined the team in November 2024.
A Graduate of the University of New Hampshire with a BA in Communications. Natalie has vast retail management experience assisting multiple general managers in NH, MA and Maine with the daily operations and store standards.Natalie enjoys spending time with her husband and two children.
Weekends include, taking her kids to sporting events, watching her daughter participate in aerial acrobatics, enjoying the bravo network and the attending the occasional murder mystery events with friends at local vineyards.
After working in the customer service industry for several years, I made the switch into accounting in 2015 at a smaller car dealership in Massachusetts. After relocating to New Hampshire, I made the switch from Car Dealership accounting to Property Management accounting.
I have recently re-entered the workforce after focusing on our small children and helping my husband grow his small business as well as handle his books for the past 3 years. I love watching our 3 daughters grow into the amazing people they are! With all the craziness that comes with taking care of our 3 daughters, 2 large dogs, 1 cat, 1 bird and many fish I love curling up with a good book at the end of the day. During the warmer New England months, you can always find me on the beach or looking for a new adventure!
Shiela has a degree in Business Administration, specializing in Financial Management. She has a strong background in accounting and finance, gained through her experience in an accounting firm. She enjoys her weekend spending time with her family and watching action, thriller movies or series.
Cristine joined the company in September 2023. She brings experience in bookkeeping and accounting from various industries in the US. Outside of work, Cristine enjoys traveling with family and friends, relaxing on beaches, and exploring local art scenes. She also loves discovering new places and trying different cuisines during her travels.
Josephine is an experienced accountant and bookkeeper with over five years of expertise across various business industries in the Philippines, Canada, and the United States. Passionate about financial accuracy and efficiency, she helps businesses manage their books with precision. Outside of work, Josephine enjoys watching movies and listening to podcasts.
Andrés brings over 15 years of diverse accounting experience across multiple industries and international markets. As a CPA with a background in business administration, he has built a reputation for identifying financial irregularities and implementing effective solutions that strengthen organizational integrity. Andrés has successfully worked with teams across different cultures and countries, bringing a global perspective to financial management. Outside of work, Andrés is passionate about travel and exploring different cultures, with a personal goal of visiting at least one new country each year.
Devin Wanzor leads due diligence and quality of earnings projects at Appletree. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Oklahoma State University in 2007 with a major in Finance and minors in Accounting and Economics.
Embarking on a seven-year journey in commercial banking post-college, Devin honed his skills in serving small to medium businesses. In 2013, Devin bought a sign manufacturing business in Tulsa, OK. Over the next seven years, he orchestrated remarkable growth, elevating annual revenues from $500k to over $10 million through a combination of organic expansion and successful merger and acquisition transactions.
Relocating to Stillwater, OK, in 2020, Devin acquired a large retail liquor store. Under his leadership, the store experienced a 40% increase in cash flow within a three-year hold period before successfully exiting in late 2023.
Having recently developed a passion for aviation, Devin attained his private pilot license in 2023 and is actively pursuing an instrument pilot rating. In late 2023, he also co-founded an aviation-related business. On the personal front, Devin has been happily married to Emily since 2008, and they are proud parents to two sons, Charlie and Sam, aged 8 and 6 respectively.
Matt is a CPA (Texas/Iowa) and Quality of Earnings analyst who specializes in financial due diligence for lower middle-market acquisitions across a range of industries, including home services, transportation, manufacturing, and franchise businesses, among others. He had a career in Big Four public accounting before moving into the buy-side world, where he helps acquirers understand the true, sustainable earnings of the businesses they're considering. Matt is also an owner-operator himself, having bought and run his own businesses, and he brings that buyer's perspective to every engagement.
Outside of the office, Matt lives in Austin, Texas with his wife Lucy and their dog, Wesson. He enjoys golf, reading, cooking, and traveling, along with spending time with family and friends.
Claudio Meardi is a senior finance professional with deep experience in M&A financial due diligence, Financial operations, and accounting automation. He leads complex analytical work across Quality of Earnings, working-capital normalization, proof-of-cash reconciliations, multi-entity consolidations, and detailed financial modeling, supporting clients through critical transaction and reporting processes.
Before joining Appletree Business, Claudio worked in financial and controllership functions, where he implemented automated workflows in QuickBooks Online, Kyriba, GTreasury, and FIS Integrity, improved month-end close efficiency, standardized reconciliation frameworks, and managed vendor payments and multi-account cash structures. His technical rigor and systems expertise allow him to diagnose issues quickly and build scalable, data-driven solutions.
Outside of work, he enjoys training for CrossFit and Hyrox competitions
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