My Story

The fluorescent lights buzzed overhead, casting a soft glow on the polished marble floors of the bank. I stood beside my mother, barely tall enough to see over the wooden counter, my eyes wide with curiosity. I watched intently as my mom handed her paycheck to the teller. That white slip of paper represented hours of her life, marking the passing of another two weeks.

The teller processed the check, and then, almost magically, crisp bills appeared. They were counted carefully before being pushed across the counter. This moment, repeated every other Friday, was more than a simple transaction. It was the foundation for my first lessons in personal finance.

As we left the cool interior of the bank and stepped into the California sunshine, my mother began her familiar lesson. She explained how she would allocate specific amounts for spending and saving, always emphasizing the importance of preparing for unforeseen circumstances.

As a single parent juggling multiple jobs with no formal education, she still made it a priority to include me in our family’s financial decisions. I was there when she opened her first credit card, both of us listening attentively to the banker’s lecture on using credit wisely and avoiding unnecessary debt. When it was time to pay bills, I watched as she filled out checks (I even “helped” by licking the envelopes). When she needed a new car, I observed her fierce negotiation skills in action.

Inspired by these experiences, I first chose a career in public accounting, helping small business owners and individuals save on taxes. Wanting to expand my impact beyond taxes, I then became a financial advisor. As a CFP®, I love helping people reach their personal financial goals and educating anyone open to learning. In doing so, I hope to pass on the invaluable lessons I learned from my mother, standing in those bank lines so many years ago.

How I’m expanding what’s possible with money

With my background in accounting, I help clients navigate the analytics of their finances in a way that isn’t daunting, building trust and rapport so they can focus on living their best lives.

Outside of work, my passions include

Eating French macarons while spending time with my husband, daughter and two dogs. Fun fact: I am also a licensed esthetician, and as a hobby, I enjoy spa activities and researching the latest skincare treatments and products.