August 2021

Over the years, I have really come to appreciate other professionals. I have come to recognize that while financial planning and managing investments is what I do day in and day out, that does not make me an expert in things like home repairs and haircuts. Maybe that sounds a little odd, but I grew up in a household where my father was very handy and chose to do most household and car repairs himself. My parents also were quite thrifty, and to this day, my dad still prefers my mom cut his hair (what is left of it anyway).

I very much respect the abilities of others to do so many of these things on their own. My husband and I agree that it is not in our toolbox of tricks to do most things around the house and we very much appreciate and respect the professionals we rely on. It was while I was sitting in my hair stylist’s chair the other day that I thought about this. She asked me a few questions and I told her that I really rely on her opinion and advice. “You’re the expert,” I said. I know what you’re thinking right now, and no, the blond is not natural, but in my defense, it’s not my natural color I’m afraid of, it’s the grey that is creeping in that I’m not quite ready for yet. But I digress….I appreciate her expertise! I appreciate the conversations we have to make sure we are both on the same page to meet my hair goals.

We all rely on a lot of professionals in our lives. Attorneys, accountants, car mechanics, window repairs, carpet cleaners, lawn care, doctors, dentists…the list goes on. Cliff and I are professionals you rely on too and we are glad you do. Relying on professionals allows you to spend your time doing things you really enjoy. We have so many clients who infer that they should be the ones researching and learning more about all of “this”….and “this” being investments. That is what you hired us to do. We are here to manage your investments, talk to you about your goals, help plan your finances to future and also to help educate you. In our meetings, periodic emails, quarterly videos and educational events, we aim to help you understand what is going on in the markets and how that may impact you.

We are also here to answer your questions and understand your situation. When I first sit down with my hair stylist, she gets me talking about how my hair has been since the last time I was in. (This past time I saw her checking out my grey hairs…she denied it, but I know she was.) When we meet you for your annual review, our first question to you – is “what questions do you have?” We know you have some, so tell us what has been on your mind. We want to discuss what is important to you as we review your investments, goals and help your financial future.