Who I Am
Meet Steve
Guiding and overseeing the financial and investment management plans for my clients is more than just a job—it's my passion. I take great joy in seeing things come together for my clients and helping them make adjustments when inevitable challenges and setbacks occur. Listening to the stories of life's ups and downs and being there to guide them in making good decisions is incredibly rewarding. My clients often share how much it means to them to have me working alongside them, and that’s what makes my work so fulfilling.
About Me
My Journey
I come from a very modest upbringing. My dad was a pastor and my mom stayed at home. I learned early on that while my dad wasn’t much of a long-term saver—he'd pretty much keep his entire paycheck in cash in his wallet—we always had what we needed. He enjoyed giving things. You really had to be careful saying you liked something because a year later, he would just surprise you with it. We had these things called "Christmas Clubs" at the bank. I thought it was just free money the bank gave you. I didn't know my parents saved it for us!
When I moved out on my own after college, I really wanted to learn as much as possible about saving and investing, and most of that was just done on my own. It was when my wife and I learned we were having twins (and we had another a few years later) that I knew all the things I had learned (and didn't know yet) would surely be put to the test!
Professional Background
I graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1989 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. After spending 10 years with several Wall Street firms, I founded my own firm in 2009. I fully believe that being an independent advisor provides my clients the financial confidence they deserve, knowing that I am free to recommend only those products and services that address their needs, without quotas or pressure to use proprietary products. My firm is truly a reflection of my personality: honest, reliable, and committed to helping you.
Community Involvement
A northern Virginia resident since 1989, I was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and grew up in western Pennsylvania. Prior to moving to Fredericksburg, I actively participated in various chambers of commerce and business groups in the metropolitan area as well as a number of charities and non-profits. I enjoy being involved in the local community.
Personal Life
Having a wonderful family is my biggest achievement. Nothing can describe the feeling of caring for and raising your kids. This is still a work in progress (and it will always be), but my wife Lisa and I wouldn't have it any other way. We've been married for over 35 years, and I couldn't have asked for a more supportive and caring person to spend my life with. We make a great team and are continuously tested (as all parents are!) by our three sons—Ben, Zach, and Alex. They are so unique in their own way. I learn from them every day, and this makes me a better person as an advisor and business owner.
In my free time, I enjoy self-improvement, public television (especially UK shows), Hallmark movies (corny yes but I like making fun of them), fitness (I recently won a natural 50+ bodybuilding contest at age 55), and fishing. I also developed a board game called Crazy Capitol Commuters back in the early 90s, which, although it never went to market, was lots of fun. My favorite movie is “Field of Dreams” and we have a rescue dog named Luna.
One of my favorite quotes is from Stephen Covey: "Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood." This principle guides my approach to both my personal and professional life.