Exploring Life & Business with Edrina Calderon of Accounting By Edrina

Today we’d like to introduce you to Edrina Calderon.

Hi Edrina, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I began my career working in the administrative department, where I was eventually given the opportunity to take on some accounting responsibilities. That experience sparked a true passion for the field—it just clicked. Shortly afterward, an uncle, a CPA, invited me to interview for an Accountant position at a nonprofit organization he supported. It was an incredible opportunity to learn directly from their retiring Bookkeeper, with the added benefit of having my uncle’s guidance whenever I needed it. I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

While working with that nonprofit, I decided to pursue my MBA in Accounting to further strengthen my expertise. The organizations I worked with following that role were instrumental in shaping my path. Through valuable mentorship and impactful conversations with my supervisors, I deepened my understanding of business budgeting, forecasting, and financial management.

Those experiences ultimately inspired me to launch my own business, with a focus on supporting smaller nonprofits that often lack the resources for a full-time bookkeeper. This allowed me to combine my passion for accounting with my desire to help mission-driven organizations thrive.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
By the end of my last traditional 9-to-5 role, the workplace had become a toxic environment for me personally. When I left and transitioned to working for myself full-time in mid-2019, it took time to recover and rebuild. Then, of course, the challenges of 2020 quickly followed, which made those early years of business ownership feel like one hurdle after another.

Over time, I’ve worked with a wide range of clients—some incredibly demanding and others truly rewarding. One of the best parts of my work is seeing clients grow to the point where they outgrow my services. While it can be bittersweet, I see it as a success story—it means the organization is thriving and ready for the next stage of financial support.

One of the more difficult aspects of my work has been organizational turnover. When the person who initially brings me on moves to another company, sometimes their replacement prefers to hire their own accountant or bookkeeper. It’s always challenging to transition out, especially when I’ve built a strong working relationship with the original client contact.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My business specializes in providing monthly bookkeeping services to small and mid-sized nonprofits. I’m known for taking the stress and guesswork out of monthly financials so leaders can focus on their mission. What sets me apart is the combination of technical expertise and personal investment I bring to every client relationship. I don’t just “do the books”—I partner with organizations to help them better understand their numbers, improve their workflows, and plan with confidence.

I’m especially proud of how my brand reflects both professionalism and heart. I understand what it’s like for smaller nonprofits to operate without the resources of a full-time finance or accounting team, and my goal is to bridge that gap. I meet clients where they are, whether they need someone to clean up years of backlogged bookkeeping or to step in as an ongoing team member.

My monthly bookkeeping services go beyond standard bookkeeping. I support organizations with budgeting, forecasting, and reporting, making sure leadership teams and boards have clear, actionable insights. Ultimately, I want every client to feel empowered and supported, knowing that their books are in good hands.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
My fondest childhood memories live in the summers. Long days spent swimming beneath the sun, riding bikes with my neighbors, and Saturdays curled up in bed, reading for as long as I wanted.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.accountingbyedrina.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edrina.calderon/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/accountingbyedrina
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/accounting-by-edrina/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@edrina.calderon

Image Credits
Shawna Hansen Photography for the first professional shot.