Digital Bookkeeping, AI & the Future of Accounting: Lessons from Finance Takes the Piste 2026

What a great start to 2026!

This January, I found myself in Morzine, in the French Alps, attending Finance Takes the Piste 2026, a unique blend of skiing, workshops, incredible food, and deep, honest conversations with some true pioneers in the accounting and bookkeeping profession.

It’s one of those experiences that stays with you long after the skis come off. What made it even more special was getting to share it with my sister, Justine Marshall, who runs a similar digital bookkeeping business in Glasgow, Scotland through Pinpoint Plus. Different countries, different tax systems, but the same conversations about where our profession is heading.

From Imposter Syndrome to Quiet Confidence

What really struck me this year was how different it felt compared to last year.

Last year, I walked into rooms like this feeling nervous. I compared myself to others and, at times, felt like an imposter, questioning whether I truly belonged in conversations about innovation, scale, and the future of accounting.

Group of accounting pioneers skiing in the French Alps

This year felt different.

Not because I suddenly know everything (I don’t), but because I’ve finally allowed myself to give credit where it’s due.

I’ve built a successful business from scratch. I’ve done it in a new country, navigating completely different tax rules and regulations, after moving to Canada 15 years ago. Today, I’m well on my way to building a seven-figure firm rooted in digital systems, automation, and forward-thinking advisory.

That matters.

Why Digital Bookkeeping and AI Are No Longer Optional

Alongside the skiing and laughter, we also spent time learning about Archie, an AI platform built exclusively for accounting firms. Seeing how purpose-built AI is reshaping accounting workflows was genuinely exciting, and a powerful reminder that our profession is evolving faster than ever.

For business owners, this reinforces something I talk about often at Tidier Books:digital bookkeeping isn’t about shiny tools, it’s about clarity, efficiency, and better decision-making.

AI, automation, and smart reporting free up time, reduce manual processes, and allow bookkeepers and accountants to focus on what really matters: insight, strategy, and growth.

Why Experiences Like This Matter

Trips like Finance Takes the Piste are about far more than the Alps (though that part is pretty special).

They’re about:

• Gaining perspective

• Pressure-testing ideas

• Staying curious

• Making sure you’re not standing still while the profession moves forward

For me, staying ahead of the curve in digital accounting and bookkeeping is a responsibility — not just to my business, but to the clients and organizations I support across Newmarket, York Region, and beyond.

Final Thoughts

Huge thanks to Alastair Barlow FCCA and Luke Streeter for creating such a thoughtful, energizing experience. This was my second year attending, and I truly hope it won’t be my last.

Grateful. Energized. And quietly proud of how far I’ve come.