Recommendation for masonry work

[Anonymous]

I have a small project - turning a window into a door and bricking up an existing exterior door. I have gotten bids from two contractors but a friend recommended I should just find someone who specializes in masonry work and contract them out for the work instead (said it would be cheaper to go right to the source). The person wasn't local - has anyone here down a similar project and can recommend someone?

Also, if you have down anything similar, what did it cost?