Congrats to the winners in this year’s Best of Johnson County Professional Services categories!
Best Best Large Employer (over 100 employees): Johnson County Park and Recreation District
At Johnson County Park and Recreation District (JCPRD), our greatest asset is our people. The passion, expertise, and dedication of our employees make a lasting difference in the communities we serve every day. Their commitment to excellence has helped JCPRD earn recognition as a National Gold Medal Award-winning and fully accredited park and recreation agency.
Since 1955, JCPRD has enriched lives by connecting people with parks, programs, and experiences that inspire healthy, active, and engaged communities. Today, JCPRD manages more than 10,000 acres of parkland, hundreds of miles of trails, and thousands of annual programs for all ages—from summer camps and youth sports to arts, nature, fitness, and senior wellness. JCPRD also operates beloved destinations including Theatre in the Park and the Johnson County Museum.
Behind every park, program, and experience is an incredible team committed to serving the community and improving quality of life. Their work helps make Johnson County a place where people come to play, learn, connect, and thrive.
Finalists: nbkc Bank, Central Bank of the Midwest, Azura Credit Union
Best Bank: Central Bank of the Midwest
Central Bancompany is a publicly traded holding-company headquartered in Jefferson City, Missouri. We manage more than $19.2 billion in assets, serving 158 locations in 79 communities, as well as operate numerous divisions, including: Central Investment Advisors, Central Trust Company (CTC), Central Mortgage Company (CMC), HSA Central, Central Technology Services (CTS), and Online Central. For more than a decade, Forbes Magazine continues to recognize our family of banks as one of the “Best Banks in America” in the large bank category – a standard we’re committed to upholding.
Finalists: nbkc Bank, Capitol Federal Savings, Commerce Bank, UMB
Best Photographer: Strauss Peyton Portrait Studio
Strauss Peyton Portrait Studio is honored to be named Best Photographer in Johnson County for the second consecutive year.
As we celebrate our 126th year in business, this recognition means far more than an award. It represents the trust that families, couples, pet lovers, and businesses have placed in us for generations.
Since 1900, Strauss Peyton has helped people celebrate the relationships that matter most. While cameras and technology have changed dramatically over the years, one thing has remained the same: people want meaningful reminders of the people and animals they love.
Our approach goes beyond creating beautiful portraits. Through design appointments, discovery conversations, guided portrait sessions, and custom artwork installation, we help clients slow down, reflect on their relationships, and create commissioned portrait art that becomes part of their family history.
Many of our clients tell us their portraits become more meaningful as the years pass. Children grow up, families change, and beloved pets leave lasting pawprints on our hearts.
The artwork remains as a daily reminder of those connections.
Thank you to everyone who nominated, voted for, and supported us. We are grateful to continue serving the Kansas City community and helping families hold close what matters most.
Learn more at https://strausspeytonkc.com
Finalists: Taylor Made Photo KC, Mallorie McBride Photography
Best Accountant/Tax Preparer: Douglas L. Freeman, CPA, LLC
Douglas L. Freeman, CPA, LLC is now TOMAHAWK CREEK GROUP. We exist to foster growth and build legacies through trusted financial guidance, providing clarity, confidence, and strategic insight that help our clients navigate complexity, seize opportunities, and achieve their personal and business goals. We provide sophisticated accounting & advisory services, tax planning, financial leadership, consulting services, and estate planning tailored for businesses, high-net-worth individuals, and families. Additionally, we offer expertise to professional service firms by helping alternative investment managers, investment bankers & M&A advisors, wealth advisors, attorneys, and their clients navigate growth, transactions, tax complexity, and financial decision-making with confidence.
Finalists: KC Bookkeeping LLC, Jason Louk- Marr & Company- P.C.
Best Credit Union: Mainstreet Credit Union
Mainstreet Credit Union, based in Lenexa, Kansas, is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative proudly serving more than 54,000 members across nine locations in the Kansas City metro area. Since our founding in 1953, we’ve been dedicated to supporting this community for over 70 years, and we’re committed to being here for many more. We believe banking should be personal and foster a sense of belonging, which is why Mainstreet Credit Union provides inclusive, people-first financial guidance with personalized coaching, fair lending decisions, and practical tools to help you achieve your goals. Our members enjoy educational resources, expert support, and flexible options, empowering you to move forward with confidence. Discover more at https://www.mainstreetcu.org/ . Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.
Finalists: CommunityAmerica Credit Union, Azura Credit Union, Truity Credit Union
Best Criminal Defense Law Firm: Gigstad Law Office, LLC
We are honored to be voted to Best of Johnson County for the 4th year in a row! Thank you!
Gigstad Law Office opened our doors in Overland Park almost 16 years ago to help clients facing various legal problems, but specifically criminal and DUI charges. “Sometimes bad things happen to good people — and we’re here to help,” says Attorney Robert Gigstad. The boutique-style law firm is able to provide personalized attention since they only handle criminal cases such as DUI defense, domestic violence, drug, traffic, and other misdemeanor and felony charges.
Attorney Robert Gigstad and his associate, Josh Zarse, aggressively advocate for their clients’ rights and know how to fight back. Their legal team is there for each client every step of the way inside and outside the courtroom. Their passion and dedication are evident from the moment they take on a case.
Gigstad Law Office has been named to Super Lawyers for eleven years in a row, and is also a member of the National College for DUI Defense, and The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. They serve clients facing charges all over Kansas and the Kansas City Metropolitan area. Thank you again to all the voters!
Finalists: Lebaron-Ramos Law Office, The Law Office of James L. Spies
Best Coworking Space: Training Umbrella
Winning Best of Johnson County is especially meaningful because it comes from the community we proudly serve. For over 15 years, Training Umbrella has been a trusted partner for businesses and organizations throughout Johnson County and the Kansas City metro, helping thousands of professionals build new skills, host successful meetings, and achieve their goals.
We believe great training is about more than learning software—it’s about giving people the confidence and knowledge to do their best work. That’s why organizations return to us for expert-led classes in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, AI, leadership, project management, and other professional development topics. We also offer flexible meeting and training spaces, certification testing, and event support, making us a “under one umbrella” resource for learning and collaboration.
As a locally woman owned business, we’re proud to build lasting relationships with our clients. Our team is known for friendly service, personalized solutions, and creating an experience that is welcoming, responsive, and easy from beginning to end. We’re here to help every step of the way.
Discover why so many organizations choose Training Umbrella by visiting https://www.trainingumbrella.com and see how we can help your team learn, grow, and succeed.
Finalists: Serendipity Labs, ecafe Coworking Center
Best Insurance Agency: Alec Bartz, State Farm Insurance Agent
Thank you to the Johnson County community for recognizing Alec Bartz Insurance Agency as the 2026 Best Insurance Agency. We are honored by your trust and grateful for every customer who has chosen us to help protect what matters most. As a locally owned State Farm agency, we proudly serve individuals, families, and businesses throughout Johnson County and the greater Kansas City area. We believe insurance should be personal, not transactional. That’s why we take the time to understand each customer’s unique goals and provide personalized recommendations for auto, home, renters, life, business, health, and financial services. Our mission is to build lasting relationships by delivering knowledgeable guidance, response service, and support through every stage of life. Whether you’re purchasing your first policy, reviewing your current coverage, or preparing for your financial future, our team is committed to helping you make informed decisions with confidence. We are proud to be part of this community and look forward to continuing to serve our neighbors for years to come. To learn more about our agency or request a quote, visit www.bartzinsurance.com. Thank you again for this incredible honor.
Finalists: Matthew Flax, Farm Bureau Financial Services, Tom Mayfield Agency, Inc., American Family Insurance, Matthew Meyer Insurance Brokerage
Best Business Law Firm: Kincaid Law KC, LLC
Kincaid Law KC, LLC is a Leawood, Kansas–based law firm serving contractors, startups, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profits across the Kansas City metropolitan area and Johnson County. Founded in 2016 by Matthew T. Kincaid, the firm focuses on business law, intellectual property (trademarks), and real estate law. Kincaid Law KC practices in Kansas and Missouri and serves as outside general counsel. Services span entity formation, contract drafting and negotiation, trademark registration and enforcement, business disputes, and real estate transactions and litigation. The firm is committed to delivering responsive and cost-effective legal counsel.
Finalists: W Law Group LLC, Lebaron-Ramos Law Office
Best Chamber of Commerce: Leawood Chamber of Commerce
The Leawood Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development Council is proud to serve as a catalyst for business growth, meaningful connections, and community leadership in Johnson County. Through networking events, leadership development programs, advocacy efforts, and signature experiences like A Taste of Leawood and At the Tee, we help businesses thrive while strengthening the Leawood community. Named Best Chamber of Commerce in Johnson County, we are honored by the support of our members and community partners. Learn more about membership, events, and economic development initiatives at www.leawoodchamber.org.
Finalists: Overland Park Chamber of Commerce, Olathe Chamber of Commerce, Shawnee Chamber of Commerce, Lenexa Chamber of Commerce
Best Marketing Agency: J29 Creative Group
Founded in 2015, J29 Creative Group is a Leawood-based marketing agency that helps second-stage businesses grow through strategy, storytelling, and digital marketing that feels human. We partner with organizations across Kansas City and beyond to build stronger brands, generate opportunities, and create meaningful connections through branding, websites, video production, social media, SEO, digital advertising, and AI-driven solutions. Built on relationships and rooted in community, our mission is to help businesses save time, grow with confidence, and amplify their message of hope and future. Learn more at www.j29creative.com.
Finalists: Springboard Creative, Funda Marketing, Social Centric Media
Best Travel Agency: Spirit of Adventure Travel
Imagine getting back the gift of time, and enjoying your vacation. With Spirit of Adventure Travel, our highly-qualified travel agents will help remove the stress from planning and provide expertise, so you don’t have to spend countless hours researching.
Shannon Riordan started the agency in 2017 out of the perfect combination of entrepreneurial and Disney passion! At Spirit of Adventure we specialize in Disney Destinations – including Parks, Cruises, and all over the world with Adventures by Disney. As we’ve grown, we’ve added Universal Parks & Resorts, other cruise lines, and all-inclusive resorts.
Our passion is helping generations of families make memories that will last a lifetime.
Finalists: Travel Wright with Barb, Love to Travel, Fantastic Memories Travel
Best Best Small Employer (under 100 employees): Vintage ’78 Wine Bar
Finalists: Mr. Handyman of Olathe, Gardner, The Grove Spa, Advanced Aesthetics
Best Family/Divorce Attorney: Jacquelyn Bernhardt
Finalists: Shea Stevens, Denise Lebaron Ramos, Erik Rome
Best Financial Investment Firm: Creative Planning
Finalists: Prevail Innovative Wealth Strategies, Azura Credit Union, Searcy Financial Services, The Retirement Planning Group
Best Funeral Home/Crematory Services: Amos Family Funeral Home & Crematory
Finalists: Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home, Johnson County Funeral Chapel & Memorial Gardens, Bruce Funeral Home
Best Junk Removal Service: Johnson County Junk Removal & Dumpster Rental
Finalists: Sirna Bros Junk & Debris Removal, Shawnee Junk Removal
Best Law Firm: Seck & Associates
Finalists: Kincaid Law KC, LLC, Kimbrell Estate Planning, LLC, Gigstad Law Office, LLC, Hunter Law Group, GroverLawKC, Bloom Legal Advisors
Best Nonprofit Organization: Starfish Project Foundation
Finalists: Growing Futures Early Education Center, Inclusion Connections, Hillcrest Transitional Housing
Best Personal Injury Attorney: Gigstad Law Office, LLC
Finalists: GroverLawKC, Michael Rader
Best Probate Law Firm: The Binder Firm
Finalists: Ong Law Firm, Bennett Bodine & Waters, Bloom Legal Advisors, Stern & Mauck, LLC.
Best Recruiting Agency: Chief of Staff
Finalists: Cornerstone Executive Search, Alliance Workforce Inc.
Best Web Designer: KC Web Specialists
Finalists: Greenhouse Social, Tri-plicity Design + Marketing
