For most of us, trash day is one of those necessary, but often inconvenient tasks. Whether it’s dragging bins down the driveway in the rain, forgetting to put the trash cans out in time, or dealing with smelly, germ-ridden cans—it's rarely anyone’s favorite chore. That’s exactly why longtime Virginia Beach resident Lori Panther Rudiger decided it was time for a change.

Lori, a licensed attorney and real estate agent with more than two decades of experience in both fields, is no stranger to solving problems for clients. But it was a personal annoyance—hauling trash cans out during bad weather, made worse with hauling trash bins during summer —that inspired her latest entrepreneurial venture: Can Concierge.

“I remember thinking, there has to be a better way,” Lori recalls. “When I couldn’t find a local service that offered reliable curbside can management, I decided to create one.” And with that, Can Concierge was born.

At its core, Can Concierge offers a simple promise: to take the hassle out of trash day. The company provides Can-to-Curb Service, moving customers’ trash and recycling bins to the curb before pickup and returning them afterward. Whether you’re traveling, managing a vacation rental, dealing with mobility challenges, or just want one less thing on your plate, Can Concierge makes it effortless. 

But the service goes beyond convenience. Can Concierge also provides professional trash bin cleaning, using high-pressure, high-temperature water to sanitize, deodorize, and eliminate bacteria and grime. For residential customers, this means nicer smelling bins, but also less exposure to dangerous bacteria, pests and viruses. For businesses, it also adds the benefit of guaranteed compliance with health standards. All wastewater generated by the truck is responsibly contained and hauled away, making the process not only hygienic but also eco-friendly.

This dual service—trash can movement and deep cleaning—is unique in the area and designed to serve a wide range of customers: busy families, retirees, business owners, and property managers alike.

Lori’s professional background has shaped how she runs her business—with attention to detail, a focus on client trust, and a deep commitment to serving the community.

“I’ve spent my career helping people navigate real estate and legal matters, but Can Concierge is about making life a little easier on a different level,” she says. “It’s about serving neighbors in a practical, helpful way.”

With her husband Barry Rudiger by her side and the support of her two grown sons—and now a beloved granddaughter named Marley—Lori’s dedication to family and community shines through in everything she does.

Can Concierge isn’t a national chain—it’s a homegrown Virginia Beach business that understands the needs of the community it serves. Lori and her team are deeply embedded in the area and committed to giving back.

The company hires locally, offering flexible jobs to those who value reliability and service. It also supports local events, neighborhood initiatives, and charity fundraisers. And beyond service, Can Concierge is raising awareness about an often-overlooked hygiene issue.

“Most people don’t think twice about how dirty their trash cans really are,” Lori explains. “They’re a breeding ground for bacteria and pests. Our cleaning service helps reduce health risks and improve sanitation around the home.”

Like any startup, especially one offering a relatively new service, Can Concierge faced its share of early hurdles. Public awareness was a major one.

“It took a lot of outreach, social media, and word-of-mouth to help people understand what we do—and why it matters,” Lori says. “Once customers try it, they see the value immediately.”

Weather delays, team scaling, and building operational systems were also part of the learning curve. But with each challenge came growth, and today, the business continues to expand.

One exciting milestone was the recent investment in a state-of-the-art bin-cleaning truck, allowing for more efficient, large-scale cleanings. This upgrade has opened new doors for partnerships with commercial properties, schools, and HOAs looking to keep their trash disposal cleaner and healthier.

Lori’s vision for the future is clear: to bring Can Concierge’s thoughtful, reliable services to more neighborhoods across Hampton Roads.

“As awareness grows, so does demand,” she says. “We’re here to make trash day easier, safer, and more pleasant—not just for homeowners, but for businesses and vacation rentals, too.”

She also hopes to expand community partnerships, host educational events on home hygiene and sustainability, and remain a trusted local resource.

As a seasoned professional, Lori offers a bit of wisdom for readers.

“Never underestimate the value of your time, your peace of mind, or your health,” she says. “Even something as simple as having clean trash cans can improve your quality of life more than you realize. And whenever you can, support local businesses—they’re owned by your neighbors and invested in making our community better for everyone.”

For aspiring entrepreneurs, her message is encouraging: “If you have an idea that solves a problem, even a small one—go for it. That’s how this all started.”

Want to simplify your trash day?

Learn more or sign up for service at www.trashstinks.com. And next time you see Lori or one of her team members rolling through the neighborhood, don’t forget to wave!