A Step Above Cleaning Concepts: Turning Grief Into a Business Built on Heart

NOVEMBER 2025 - (USAnews.com) The Traverse City, Michigan, sky was vast and blue when Christan Coates, with her daughter by her side, made the difficult decision to start over. Having just left behind everything in Arizona, Christan was unsure of the future, yet a spark of determination ignited within her. It was a simple suggestion from her brother that would change everything: “Start a cleaning company.” And with that advice, A Step Above Cleaning Concepts was born.

A Business Built From Love and Purpose

In the early days, Christan was navigating not just a new business but also profound personal loss. Her brother, the one who had encouraged her to start this journey, passed away shortly after her move to Michigan. While grief loomed large, Christan found solace in the idea that her brother would be proud to see her build something meaningful.

“A Step Above Cleaning Concepts isn’t just a business to me,” Christan reflects. “It’s a tribute to him, and it’s what keeps me going every day.” Her story is one of resilience, love, and turning adversity into a mission that helps others.

The company quickly became known for more than just its meticulous cleaning services. It became a symbol of heart and community. As the business grew, so did Christan’s mission. Each month, she offers a free cleaning to a grieving family, a gesture that honors her brother’s memory and brings comfort to others who might be going through their own dark moments.

Compassion at the Core

Today, A Step Above Cleaning Concepts is one of the most trusted names in Traverse City, serving not only the city itself but also the surrounding areas, including Benzie County, Elk Rapids, Kalkaska, Cadillac, Copemish, and Thompsonville. The company specializes in residential recurring cleaning, move-in/move-out services, and Airbnb cleaning.

What makes A Step Above stand out? It’s the heart and soul that goes into every job. “We don’t just clean homes; we care for the people in them,” Christan explains. Her commitment to delivering high-quality services with empathy has fostered long-lasting relationships with clients, many of whom have become more like family than customers.

Overcoming Challenges With Perseverance

Building a business from the ground up was not without its challenges. Christan faced tough seasons, navigating new surroundings, grieving the loss of her brother, and working tirelessly to build a reputation. But through it all, she remained steadfast. “When things got tough, I thought about my brother and what he would want for me,” she says. “I knew I couldn’t give up. I had to keep pushing forward, no matter how difficult it felt.”

Her hard work paid off. The company quickly earned a reputation for reliability and care, with customers frequently leaving positive reviews and recommending the business to others. “People know when we come into their homes, we’ll give them the best service possible. It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about showing up for people when they need it the most.”

Cleaning With Heart: A Business That Cares

It’s rare to find a company that leads with compassion, and it’s even rarer to find one that continues to do so consistently. A Step Above Cleaning Concepts’ philosophy is rooted in the belief that cleaning is not just about getting a home spotless, it’s about offering peace of mind, especially in moments of loss.

“I wanted to give back, to make a difference in people’s lives,” says Christan. “When I lost my brother, I realized how important it is to be there for someone else during their time of grief. So, I decided that this would be a part of my company. It’s my way of honoring his memory.”

Christan’s heart-driven approach is reflected in her consistent support for the local community. Through her monthly free cleaning for a grieving family, she has touched the lives of many, offering both physical and emotional relief. It’s an offering that has become a cornerstone of the business, one that makes A Step Above Cleaning Concepts not just another service provider, but a pillar in the community.

A Fresh Start, A Lasting Impact

A Step Above Cleaning Concepts is a testament to the power of starting over, the strength in the face of adversity, and the profound impact of small acts of kindness. Christan Coates’ journey, from a fresh start in Michigan to creating a beloved local business, shows just how far heart, integrity, and care can take you.

As the business continues to thrive, Christan remains focused on one goal: “I want people to feel cared for when we’re done cleaning, not just because their home is spotless, but because they know we genuinely care about them.”

For anyone in need of cleaning services in Northern Michigan, A Step Above Cleaning Concepts isn’t just the solution, it’s a heartfelt experience. Whether you’re looking for routine cleaning, help with a move, or simply want to support a local business that gives back, A Step Above is a name you can trust.

Join the Movement

If you’re looking for a cleaning service that truly cares, A Step Above Cleaning Concepts is ready to serve you with heart and dedication. Your home will shine, and you’ll be supporting a business committed to making a difference in the community.

Visit A Step Above Cleaning Concepts to book your service or learn more about how this incredible company is making a lasting impact. You can also connect with them on Facebook and read glowing customer reviews on Google.

When you choose A Step Above, you’re not just getting a clean home, you’re becoming part of a family that values kindness and care above all else.