California’s Top Rated Local® Flooring Contractors Award Winner: Abbey Carpets Unlimited Design Center

Top Rated Local® is pleased to announce that Abbey Carpets Unlimited Design Center is a 2018 award winner for flooring contractors in California!

For all of your flooring needs in Napa, there’s no better option than Abbey Carpets Unlimited Design Center.

Abbey Carpets Unlimited Design Center has received more than 150 online reviews on six different verified sites with an average rating of 4.83 stars, earning them a stellar Rating Score™ of 98.26 and a 2019 Top Rated Local award for ranking among the top 10 flooring contractors in all of California!

Here’s just one of their many five-star reviews:

“As a designer, I probably visit Abbey Carpets Unlimited a couple of times a month, and have been doing so for many years. I enjoy working with them, not only because of their variety of product and peppermint lifesavers, but also because of their friendliness, helpfulness and long-term customer service. They offer many carpet and tile manufacturers to cover just about any style a homeowner or business owner could want. They also have a selection of window shades and blinds. It’s always a pleasure to work with the staff and the owners at Abbey.” – Patti C.

Not Your Average Flooring Company

We took a few minutes to talk with Janice, owner of Abbey Carpets Unlimited Design Center, to learn a little more about the business and how they managed to build such an impressive online reputation.

The first thing we wanted to know was what sets Abbey Carpets Unlimited Design Center apart from the many other flooring companies in California. Janice points to the face that their sales team works to take care of their clients — not to earn a commission, to their staff — which is extremely knowledgeable and to their installers — who have been with Abbey for more than 30 years and who are the best at what they do.

We also asked Janice how they work to make the world a better place at Abbey Carpets Unlimited Design Center. She shared with us that they do a lot with non-profits, that they have small fundraisers here and there and that they help with disaster relief.

Building Success by Taking Care of Customers

Janice credits Abbey Carpets Unlimited Design Center’s strong online reputation to their commitment to taking care of their customers.

Outside of building a strong online reputation, Abbey has grown simply by showing up and doing a good job, and after 40 years of serving the community, people know who they are.

Clearly, Janice understands a thing or two about how to grow a business and build an online reputation. Here’s her expert advice for the many other business owners out there working to do the same thing:

“Put yourself in the client’s shoes.”


Congratulations to the team at Abbey Carpets Unlimited Design Center for being a 2018 Top Rated Local award winner, and thank you so much, Janice, for taking the time to speak with us!

For all of your flooring needs in Napa, we highly recommend Abbey Carpets Unlimited Design. Visit their website today to learn more.

California’s Top Rated Local® Sign Companies Award Winner: FASTSIGNS

Top Rated Local® is pleased to announce that FASTSIGNS is a 2018 award winner for sign companies in California!

If you are looking for a fantastic sign company in California, look no further than FASTSIGNS in Clovis.

FASTSIGNS of Clovis has over 50 reviews on four verified sites with an average rating of 4.92 stars earning them an unbelievable Rating Score™ of 97.23 and a 2018 Top Rated Local award for being one of the top ten sign companies in the entire state of California. Here is just one of their many five-star reviews:

“I needed a sign for my new store, and all I had was an idea. I had no idea all of the things getting a commercial sign from design to installation entailed. Fast Signs in Clovis, CA. walked me through the entire process. It was so fantastic to give that one idea and be able to trust, write a REASONABLE check, come back to the store and voila! It is perfect!” – Chanel W.

Not Your Average Sign Company

We took a few minutes to speak with Robert Craigo, owner of FASTSIGNS of Clovis, to learn a little bit more about the business and how they managed to build such an impressive online reputation.

The first thing that we asked Robert was what helped his business set itself apart from the competition. Robert was very clear that the biggest difference was his team’s dedication to the details, an emphasis on unparalleled customer service, and the fact they stand behind every product and service they sell.

We also wanted to understand how Robert and his team at FASTSIGNS makes his community a better place. Here’s what he had to say:

“It all comes down to the customer experience and making sure everybody in the company understands that customer service is the top priority.”

Building Success By Treating The Customer The Right Way

Robert credits his business’ strong online reputation to a simple but important adage:

“We truly focus on customer service above all else. In fact we have two rules at our business: 1) the customer is always right, and 2) always refer back to rule number one”

Outside of simply building a strong online reputation to grow the business, FASTSIGNS of Clovis also participates heavily in marketing their brand across many different channels, including radio ads.

There are so many other businesses interested in achieving the same level of success as Robert and his team at FASTSIGNS. Here is Robert’s expert advice for those business owners:

“Always focus on the customers and the customer service while providing the best product at an affordable price.”

Congratulations to the team at FASTSIGNS of Clovis for being a 2018 Top Rated Local award winner, and thank you so much, Robert, for taking the time to speak with us!

California’s Top Rated Local® Pet Groomers Award Winner: Essential Grooming

Top Rated Local® is pleased to announce that Essential Grooming is a 2018 award winner for pet groomers in California!

If you are interested in treating your pet to a spa day with a groomer that offers a custom experience, look no further than Essential Grooming in Santee.

Essential Grooming has over 150 reviews on five verified sites with an average rating of 4.68 stars earning them an incredible Rating Score™ of 96.82 and a 2018 Top Rated Local award for being one of the top ten pet groomers in the entire state of California. Here is just one of their many five-star reviews:

“I absolutely love Essential Grooming! They pamper our Chewy baby. We now take our senior rescue pup and she loves it. She can be nervous at times, but she wasn’t at Essential Grooming. She came home happy and in a great mood, all relaxed. Both our dogs come out looking like movie stars! Thank you for always taking great care of our doggie babies and being good to them.” – Bridget D.

Not Your Average Pet Groomer

We took a few minutes to speak with Kathy, groomer at Essential Grooming, to learn a little bit more about the business and how they managed to build such an impressive online reputation.

The first thing we wanted to know was how Essential Grooming separates itself from the other groomers and why pet owners should choose their service. This is what Kathy had to say:

“One of the things we truly pride ourselves on is taking the absolute best care of people’s pets while they are under our watch.”

We also wanted to understand what Kathy and the rest of her team’s mission is every single day. Kathy indicated that Essential Grooming makes it a point to treat every single animal that comes in their door with the same love, respect and care that their owners would.

Building Success One Pet At A Time

We also asked Kathy how Essential Grooming had built their amazing online reputation. Kathy told us:

“We make sure to focus on the details for every customer experience. We know that pets are actually members of our customer’s family and we never forget to treat them as such.”

Outside of simply building a strong online reputation to grow the business, Essential Grooming relies heavily on referrals and utilizes their solid customer service to promote word of mouth among the community.

We know there are many small businesses that are striving to achieve the same level of success as Kathy and her team at Essential Grooming, so we asked her to provide some advice for other business owners. Here is the expert recommendation Kathy provided:

“It is very simple: always treat customers and their pets with respect and integrity.”

Congratulations to the team at Essential Grooming for being a 2018 Top Rated Local award winner, and thank you so much, Kathy, for taking the time to speak with us!

California’s Top Rated Local® Martial Arts Studio Award Winner: Academy Of Self Defense

Top Rated Local® is pleased to announce that Academy Of Self Defense is a 2018 award winner!

“I did the two-week trial, and I was immediately hooked after my first class of Krav Maga. This place is full of great staff who care about what they teach and who teach very relevant skills, all while kicking your butt with a hard workout. Others students at this place are very friendly and welcoming to newcomers, creating an open environment that helps learning. If you come to learn how to defend yourself and get a good workout in, look no further.” -Daniel C.

That’s just one of the more than 500 fantastic reviews Academy Of Self Defense has received on verified review sites, giving them a 98.33 Rating Score™, a 4.83 average star rating, and a spot among the top five martial arts studios in California.

A One-of-a-Kind Martial Arts School’s Secret to a Strong Online Reputation

Neal Newman, the owner of Academy Of Self Defense, took some time to speak with us about his business’ reputation and success online,

Getting down to brass tacks, we asked about Neal’s secret to success. He told us, “The services and training we provide are top-notch. We are a true hybrid — what UFC is trying to accomplish with the big-gym feel. We combine diverse fitness programs with muay-thai, krav maga, and combat hapkido. We offer unlimited fitness memberships and total memberships — you can take four fitness programs for $49, or the whole kit for $99 (includes self-defense).”

Neal and his team of instructors are committed to providing a place where people can not only get a good workout in, but build community and learn self-defense. “We always have the same comment when people come in: the facilities are so clean, our staff is engaging and doesn’t intimidate our members even though they’re trained fighters,” he said. “Our goal is to develop every client to his or her highest ability. We know people have different proclivities and abilities, so we give every person the best chance to maximize their innate skills. We’ve taken diversity to a new level wherein anyone can walk through the door, get fit, and learn how to defend themselves.”

Making the World a Better Place By Helping People Get Fit

We wanted to know how Neal and his team work to serve their community and make the world a better place. “We want to give the average person the opportunity to learn how to get fit and defend themselves to the best of their ability, and this can often be very difficult when it comes to self-defense, since instructors are strong, powerful, fast athletes, and it can often be far too intimidating for regular people. Everyone knows that it’s about the customer — we offer a network of support and favor it over the tough-guy machismo that usually sells. We are adamant about safety and nurturing our clients’ abilities,” he said. “I’ve been in business for 14 years, so we have a culture of support. For a fighting gym, it’s really hard to pull that off. I don’t look for guys with chips on their shoulders, badass complexes, etc. We actively monitor what’s going on and do not allow trainers whose personalities can become liabilities.”

Here’s Neals advice to other business owners:

“Customer service is the most important thing. You can have an unbelievable marketing campaign, but you absolutely must give people value at all times. The customer might not always be right, but he’s NEVER wrong.”


Thank you for speaking with us, Neal! Congratulations to the team at Academy Of Self Defense for being a 2018 Top Rated Local award winner!

California’s Top Rated Local® Window Cleaners Award Winner: A Better Outlook Window Cleaning

Top Rated Local® is pleased to announce that A Better Outlook Window Cleaning is a 2018 award winner for window cleaners in California!

If you’re looking for a window cleaner you can rely on to get the job done right the first time, look no further than A Better Outlook Window Cleaning in Irvine.

A Better Outlook Window Cleaning has received dozens of reviews on three verified sites with an average rating of 5.00 stars, earning them a wonderful Rating Score™ of 96.00 and a 2018 Top Rated Local award for ranking among the top 10 window cleaners in all of California!

Here’s just one of their many five-star reviews:

“We’ve got a much better outlook today because of Travis’ great work. He went above and beyond to fit us in during a busy season, and he did a top flight job. He even repaired a bent screen and pressure washed a small section of our patio. Travis is a faithful guy who is good at what he does!” – Brian U.

Not Your Average Window Cleaner

We sat down with Travis Montgomery, the owner of A Better Outlook Window Cleaning, to learn a little more about what sets them apart and how they managed to build such a powerful online reputation.

The first thing we wanted to know is what makes A Better Outlook Window Cleaning unique among the many window cleaning companies in California. Here’s what Travis had to say:

“We have years of experience in every form of exterior washing. We don’t cut corners, and we use tried-and-true methods to get the job done.”

We also asked Travis why they do what they do at A Better Outlook Window Cleaning and how they work to make the world a better place. Here’s his response:

“We have a good group of employees who show up on time and do great work. It’s all about the client’s happiness.”

Building Success by Being Personable and Doing Good Work

Travis credits A Better Outlook’s strong online reputation to their commitment to being personable with their clients and always doing really good work.

They can accomplish this because their employees are vested in the company, and they all truly care about client satisfaction.


Congratulations to the team at A Better Outlook Window Cleaning for being a 2018 Top Rated Local award winner, and thank you so much, Travis, for taking the time to speak with us!

For all of your window cleaning needs in Irvine, we highly recommend A Better Outlook Window Cleaning. Visit their website today!

California’s Top Rated Local® Employment Agencies Award Winner: Transition Staffing Group

Top Rated Local® is pleased to announce that Transition Staffing Group is a 2018 award winner for employment agencies in California!

Whether you’re an employer looking to hire the right person or a job seeker looking for the right career path, Transition Staffing Group in San Diego is the employment agency to turn to.

Transition Staffing Group has received more than 1,100 reviews on five verified sites with an average rating of 4.95 stars, earning them a fabulous Rating Score™ of 99.54 and a 2018 Top Rated Local award for being ranked the number one employment agency in all of California!

Here’s just one of their many five-star reviews:

“My recruiter was very professional, friendly and excited about helping me find the right job to challenge me, meet my employment needs and help me grow. He even offered advice on presenting my experience better to reflect the industry in which I want to work.” – John P.

Not Your Average Employment Agency

We sat down with Shaun Enders, the owner of Transition Staffing Group, to learn a little more about who they are, what they do and how they managed to build such a solid online reputation.

The first thing we wanted to know was what makes Transition Staffing Group unique among the many employment agencies in California. Shaun shared with us that Transition utilizes its own proprietary technology, and that really differentiates them from their competitors. They also provide next-level customer service; they are dedicated to under-promising and over-delivering, to being realistic with what they’re capable of and to going above and beyond for their customers. When you combine their one-of-a-kind technology with their incredible customer service, you’ll see a tangible difference between Transition Staffing Group and their competition.

When asked why they do what they do at Transition Staffing Group, Shaun shared their internal mantra, which is:

“We are in a unique position to affect people’s professional lives, and given that every person’s life can be divided into two areas — both personal and professional — we have a very big impact on that professional section, which impacts the personal.”

At Transition Staffing Group, they help people transition into new careers, and over the years, they’ve been able to see what a big impact they’ve made in San Diego and see their local relationships grow.

Building Success by Focusing on the End Goal

Shaun credits Transition Staffing Group’s strong online reputation to the fact they always focus on the end goal for their customers:

“It’s a very simple mindset of how would you like to be treated if you were in their shoes. When you distill things down to a basic level and treat others how you want to be treated, it’s amazing how things fall into place. Our client base genuinely appreciates the fact that we care immensely about where they take their careers.”

Outside of building a powerful online reputation, Transition Staffing Group has grown by putting out relevant content on a monthly basis, whether it be in the form of a blog or a newsletter. Not only does this help them to position themselves as thought leaders in the industry, but it keeps them in the forefront of their clients’ minds.

There are many other business owners out there looking to grow their business and build their online reputation. Here’s Shaun’s expert advice for those business owners:

“Don’t cut corners; put one foot in front of the other. Let your day-to-day work do the talking. If you’re really trying to build a presence or you wants positive reviews, there is no way to expedite that process. It is a matter of doing good business day in day out and making sure that your team has a shared vision. If your entire team has a shared vision, you have to be intentional about what you want to accomplish and to ensure everyone is on the same page with the steps to take to achieve that goal. When you do that and you recognize it isn’t going to happen overnight, things will happen.”


Congratulations to the team at Transition Staffing Group for being a 2018 Top Rated Local award winner, and thank you so much, Shaun, for taking the time to speak with us!

We highly recommend Transition Staffing Group! Visit their website today.

California’s Top Rated Local® Photographers Award Winner: Nathan Nowack Photography

Top Rated Local® is pleased to announce that Nathan Nowack Photography is a two-time award winner in California for 2018!

From engagements to weddings, Nathan Nowack Photography can help you capture life’s most memorable moments.

Nathan Nowack Photography has received more than 150 reviews on five verified sites with an average rating of 5.00 stars, earning it an impeccable Rating Score™ of 100.00 and two 2018 Top Rated Local awards — one for ranking among the top 100 businesses in California and one for ranking among the top 10 photographers in California!

Here’s just one of their many five-star reviews:

“We used Nathan for a second time recently to capture our family photos. Just like last time, he did not disappoint. When we received the digitals, we were blown away by how amazing all the pictures turned out. We have two energetic six-year-olds, and it’s not easy to keep them still. The fact that he got such great candids while they were a tornado of motion speaks a lot to his skill. Nathan is patient, professional and wonderful to work with. We will definitely be using him again.” – Judy R.

Not Your Average Photographer

We sat down with Nathan Nowack himself to learn what makes Nathan Nowack Photography different from the many other photographers in California. He shared with us that he tries to be creative and to do something different whenever he can. So if you’re looking for quality photos, but you don’t want to settle for cookie-cutter images, Nathan is your guy.

We also wanted to know why Nathan does what he does. Here’s what he had to say:

“I really enjoy what I do. One thing my parents always taught me is that you should do what you love, and I have.”

Building Success Through Good Service and Happy Clients

When asked what Nathan Nowack Photography’s secret is to such a strong online reputation, Nathan has this to say:

“Actually getting content out there online is the biggest challenge for a lot of people. Posting on social media, the blog and getting awareness out there are all very important. Make it easy for people to review and want to review you.”

Outside of building a powerful online reputation, Nathan’s commitment to providing good customer service and keeping his clients happy has helped his company grow.

There are so many other business owners out there looking to grow their business and build their online reputation. Here’s Nathan’s expert advice for those business owners:

“Work on the basics first. Do what you love. Do a good job, and that isn’t always about making the money. The money will come if you actually have a passion for it and you do a good job of learning about your process/equipment and industry changes.”


Congratulations to Nathan Nowack Photography for being a 2018 Top Rated Local award winner, and thank you so much, Nathan, for taking the time to speak with us!

We highly recommend Nathan Nowack Photography. Visit Nathan online today to learn more!

California’s Top Rated Local® Window Cleaning Company Award Winner: Blu Sky Window Cleaning

Top Rated Local® is pleased to announce that Blu Sky Window Cleaning is a 2018 award winner!

This is just one of the many reviews that landed them among the top 10 window cleaning businesses in the state:

“Yesterday, Blu Sky came to clean my windows. They were perfectly on time, assessed the number of windows that needed to be cleaned inside and out, gave me a quote that I had anticipated, got immediately to work, cleaned out the window rails, were very thorough in their clean up after having done the windows, and all the windows gleamed with brightness that made my home shine with light. These two gentlemen were very friendly, asked for permission to unlock windows and shades when necessary, and are an absolute credit to their profession. Thank you for a job excellently and efficiently done and in 1.5 hours, finished off 12 windows, a patio slider door, and two indoor panels to other rooms in the house, all of which had not been cleaned in several years.” -Karl D.

Reviews like these have earned Blu Sky Window Cleaning a 96.00 Rating Score and a perfect five-star average rating on verified sites.

Not Your Average Window Washing Company

We spoke with Rob McCully, who owns Blu Sky Window Cleaning with James Harrison and Jared Giesic, about the business’ success.

“We’re meticulous. There are a lot of other companies that do window cleaning but it’s more of a hobby,” Rob said, when we asked what it is that sets his business apart from the crowd. “We consider ourselves expert window cleaners and we try to do the absolute best job we can and try to keep our pricing low for our customers.”

We also wanted to know what drives Rob and his team to do what they do. He said, “With window cleaning, there is actually satisfaction in it. We get to watch something dirty get sparkling clean, and a lot of people are intrigued by it. We work with a lot of businesses where we’re cleaning windows outside and people are attracted to that. We’re kind of like ninjas with squeegees.”

Building Success By Making a Good Impression

As an owner of an award-winning window cleaning company, Rob’s an expert in service. Because of that, he has tons of wisdom to share with other business owners that want to improve their online reputation. Here’s his advice to our readers:

“Do business with integrity, and don’t be so concerned with just trying to make a buck. If people trust you and you earn their repeat business, that is what will help them be successful. Make a good first impression.”


Congratulations to the team at Blu Sky Window Cleaning for being a 2019 Top Rated Local award winner, and thank you so much, Rob, for taking the time to speak with us!

California’s Top Rated Local® Window Cleaner Award Winner: California Window Cleaning

Top Rated Local® is pleased to announce that California Window Cleaning is a 2018 Top Rated Local award winner!

With a 97.93 Rating Score™, a 4.89 average star rating, and dozens of positive online reviews, California Window Cleaning is one of the top three window cleaning businesses in California. Ira Horowitz, the owner, took some time to speak with us about their success.

Unbeatable Service and Fair Prices

“My mom sold her huge 6,000 square foot home last year, and we used California Window Cleaning to clean a TON of windows. They did an absolutely incredible job. The windows looked impeccable and all for a very reasonable price. We shopped around, got a few quotes, and these guys were able to provide an unbeatable rate and provided an unbeatable service. I HIGHLY recommend them!” -Daniel H.

The team at California Window Cleaning is wholeheartedly dedicated to providing unparalleled service to their valued customers. One thing they really focus on is reducing their environmental impact. Ira, as well as the rest of the California Window Cleaning team members, understand the importance of treating both the planet and their customers well.

Professional, Efficient, and Responsive

“I don’t normally leave reviews on these sites, but these guys were great, so I felt compelled! I just had to share in case you are trying to find a reliable fair-priced window cleaning service. The technician was extremely professional, efficient, and responsive. They’re priced really well compared to the other companies I called. They even removed some hard water stains that have been there for years. Super happy with the service and will definitely be using them again!” -Molly M.

Treating people right is the California Window Cleaning secret to success, according to Ira. That is reflected in this review and so many more. This unwavering dedication to service has earned California Window Cleaning a healthy base of loyal customers.

So, what’s Ira’s advice to other business owners that want to improve their online reputation?

“You have to be sure that you do search engine optimization and collect reviewers.”


Thank you for speaking with us, Ira! Congratulations to the team at California Window Cleaning for being a 2018 Top Rated Local award winner!

California’s Top Rated Local® Accounting Firm Award Winner: Fairchild Tax Service

Top Rated Local® is pleased to announce that Fairchild Tax Service is a 2018 award winner!

Having helped to lighten the financial burden of countless clients, Fairchild Tax Service has earned a 97.63 Rating Score™, a 4.96 average star rating, and tons of positive online reviews. All of these things combined give Fairchild Tax Service a spot among the top 10 accounting firms in California. These are just two of the tremendous reviews they’ve received:

“Dr. Fairchild and his beautiful wife are the most wonderful people to work with. I recommended a lot of my friends and they were happy as well. He does everything in his power to get you your money back that you deserve. Plus he is so wise, has written so many books, and can give you amazing advice if you’re feeling stuck in life or business. Call and make an appointment. You will be satisfied 100-percent and more. Every time I leave this office I feel like a million bucks. I think it’s all the positive vibes in there. Thank you, times a TRILLION, Dr. Hal and Heather Fairchild!” -Sanaz A.

“Dr. Halford Fairchild and his wife, Heather, are the best! Fairchild is the easiest and fastest place to file your taxes. I had a very bad experience the year prior with a different tax service, and I was very hesitant to trust anyone this year. But, as soon as I walked thru the door I was out at ease. Heather was warm and welcoming. Halford was an expert! And he even took his time to answer every question I had. And believe me, I came in loaded with questions because of my prior experience. He comforted me and actually even taught me a few things. I left empowered and uplifted. I am not going anywhere else ever again! Fairchild has my business for life!” -Adena D.

Not Your Average Accounting Company

Our team spoke with Dr. Halford Fairchild, who owns and operates Fairchild Tax Service with his wife, about their fabulous online reputation.

As an award-winning business, they are clearly doing something right. That’s why we asked Dr. Fairchild what sets his business apart from competing accounting services. “We have over 34 years of experience and provide a quality service at a fair price,” he said. We are customer oriented and always focus on doing what is right for the customer.”

Making the World a Better Place

During our conversation, it became abundantly clear to us that Dr. Fairchild and his wife are passionate about helping others (both in regard to their tax service and in their everyday lives) making them trustworthy and caring tax experts. In his words, “We help clients with their emotional well-being by taking care of their taxes, giving them the peace of mind that it is done with their best interest in mind and done correctly.”

This is Dr. Fairchild’s advice to other business owners that want to maintain a positive reputation:

“Always operate your business with honesty and integrity and provide a quality service at a fair price.”

As part of his mission to work toward world peace and create true change, Dr. Fairchild has written several books, which can be found here.


Thank you for speaking with us, Dr. Fairchild! Congratulations to the team at Fairchild Tax Service for being a 2018 Top Rated Local award winner!