Gratitude and Growth

Upcoming Office Closure - S.E.E.D. Office Closure for Thanksgiving

Admin Roundtable - Thankfulness and Traditions

Thank You for Trusting Us - Jeff Chase, Senior VP, Financial Planning

Finding Joy in the Present - Tonya Laughing, Client Services Associate

In this special Thanksgiving episode, Mae and Tonya welcome a very special guest - Lori from the Client Experience team - to share heartfelt reflections on gratitude, team traditions, and the joy of gathering. From southern potlucks to New York “anything-but-Thanksgiving” feasts, the team opens up about what this season means to them, the changes and growth they've experienced this year, and the appreciation they have for the clients and community who make it all worthwhile. Before you dive into the video, join us in taking a moment to pause, be present, and celebrate the people and moments that matter most.

Jeff Chase, Senior Vice President, Financial Planning

As we enter the holiday season and reflect on this past year, we want to take a moment to say thank you. Not just for choosing us, but for allowing us to be part of your journey. Every conversation, every path we chart together, every milestone reminds us why we do what we do: to help you live life by design. 

One of the most rewarding parts of our work is hearing your feedback. Time and again, clients tell us things like: “You’re the reason we have confidence to make decisions, to spend money without fear, and to live the life we’ve always envisioned.” 

Those words mean everything to us. They affirm that our mission of empowering you with clarity and confidence is making a real difference. It’s not just about numbers on a page; it’s about creating freedom, security, and peace of mind for you and your family. 

Your trust inspires us to keep raising the bar. We’re dedicated to building a lasting partnership with you – one that goes beyond financial planning and grows with you through every season of life. 

Thank you for letting us be part of your story. Here’s to continuing to build lives by design, together. 

Tonya Laughing, Client Services Associate

As the holiday season approaches, the world seems to spin faster. Advertisements shout, calendars overflow, and the pressure to “keep up” grows louder. In the midst of this chaos, it’s easy to forget the most precious truth: the present is a gift. 

This season, challenge yourself to pause. Take a deep breath and notice what surrounds you. The laughter of loved ones, the quiet moments of solitude, and the simple beauty of everyday life. Treasure these gifts. They cost nothing, yet they hold immeasurable value. 

Growth is important, and the holidays can be a time of reflection and renewal. But remember: your path is yours alone. Walk it with confidence, not comparison. Resist the urge to measure joy by price tags or social expectations. True celebration isn’t found in extravagance; it’s discovered in authenticity. 

Financial mindfulness plays a big role in this. Overspending during the holidays often leads to stress that lingers long after the decorations come down. Instead of chasing the biggest gifts or the flashiest experiences, focus on what matters most: connection, creativity, and meaning. Set a realistic budget, plan ahead, and choose experiences that enrich your life without draining your resources. A heartfelt note, a shared meal, or a simple tradition can bring more joy than any luxury purchase. 

Let this season be about love and togetherness or peaceful solitude if that’s your journey. Don’t let hustle and bustle steal your joy. Instead, embrace simplicity. Create moments that matter. These are the treasures that endure. 

The holidays aren’t a competition. They are an opportunity, a chance to reconnect with what truly matters. Silence the noise. Celebrate the present. And let joy, in its purest form, guide you into the new year financially and emotionally balanced.