Frequently Asked Questions
What makes your firm different from other financial advisors or RIAs?
We're a local boutique firm that’s easy to reach and easy to work with. We are truly an independent firm—free from corporate quotas and products. That gives us the freedom to recommend what's best for our clients, with no conflicts of interest.
Our clients work directly with the same trusted advisors who know their full financial picture. We intentionally maintain a manageable client base so we can provide personalized, high-touch service and long-term strategies built on trust.
Are you truly a fiduciary? How does that benefit me as a client?
Absolutely, we are a fiduciary. That means we are legally and ethically obligated to always put your best interests first. As a client, this gives you the confidence that our advice is always based on what's right for you — not what's best for us, a parent company, or any product provider.
How do you get paid?
We charge a small percentage of the assets we manage for you. This aligns our compensation with your success: when your portfolio grows, we grow. There are no commissions or hidden fees. For example, if you invest $100,000 with us, your fee would be 1.15% annually, that will come to about $375 per quarter. This fee covers ongoing portfolio management, financial planning, and personalized advice tailored to your goals.
Do you offer comprehensive financial planning, or just investment management?
We do full financial planning, not just investing. We use the same planning tools for our clients that we use for ourselves and our families — and that’s what you become to us. Your plan is built around your goals, flexible as life changes, and designed to prepare you for all the ‘what-ifs.’ We’re big believers in planning, education, and helping you make confident decisions.
Will I be working with one dedicated advisor or a team?
You won’t be working with just one person — you get our whole team. From day one, you’ll work directly with Mel and Jen. We take a team-based approach to understanding your goals, building your financial plan, developing investment strategies, and actively monitoring them over time. When you call, it’s us who pick up — and the same people you’ll meet face-to-face. You always have direct access to advisors who truly know you.
Do you require a minimum investment?
We work with clients at every stage—from those just starting out to high-net-worth individuals. By design, we have no minimum because putting people over money is what matters most to us. We believe everyone deserves access to expert guidance to build their future through investing and financial planning, regardless of portfolio size.
What’s one piece of financial advice you wish more people followed?
“Spend after you save”- Mel.
“Start investing yesterday- compounding is the 8th wonder of the world”- Jen