Wow. I'm sorry you're having to deal with that. SarahLynn, you're a beautiful girl whose business is thriving, and it doesn't surprise me that other, less successful ladies would feel threatened and intimidated by you.
I've experienced similar things since moving up to northwest Arkansas. One time, the disgruntled provider texted the client during our appointment that he was a "dickhead" for seeing me! Wow. It's still comical to me, to this day...just the pure ridiculousness of it. I wonder if that provider realizes how unprofessional & petty she looks when she does these things? I'm sure that type of behavior is a huge turn-off to the client, as well.
When faced with uncooperative reference sources, I always suggest that the gentleman get preferred411.com membership and ask the provider directly for an 'ok.' That way, any personal animosity projected towards you & attempts to deny you referenes will be a non-factor and the provider will only anger the client if she refuses to cooperate. Her p411 membership will also be in jeopardy if she decides to continue to play games.
Doing well is always the best revenge!
I'm always reference friendly...just a text away. And I really appreciate you being so great with references, too.