Open Letter Re: Changes at Oakleigh

Dear Reader,

Since becoming a financial planner and founding Oakleigh almost two years ago, I truly feel that I’ve found my calling: helping families and individuals make good decisions with money and align their time and resources with what truly matters most to them.

I’ve had the opportunity to serve and learn from folks in a range of situations, from young business owners to busy families to those nearing or years into retirement. I’ve enjoyed delving into the unique issues that each stage of life or chosen path entails. But, even more so, it is illuminating to see the challenges and aspirations that transcend age and circumstance.

My goal has long been to be a “general practitioner” or a “jack of all trades.” I love exploring the universal issues we all have around money and digging into the nuances of specific scenarios. However, I have also realized some of the drawbacks of such a broad focus, especially as a solo practitioner. I never want to compromise on providing excellent client service, expertise, and transparent value for each client.

Therefore, I’ve decided to narrow my focus going forward to primarily serve clients who are retired, within 5-10 years of retirement, or considering transitioning to “encore careers.” This still encompasses a diverse range of circumstances, but also some core questions and solutions that are both deep and universally shared (see my recent blog post - Retirement: Math Problem vs. Human Problem — Oakleigh Wealth Services). I am increasingly drawn to serving these individuals and families on a personal level, and I believe that narrowing my focus is consistent with my vision for Oakleigh.

I want to be clear that I am committed to serving all my existing clients, whether or not they fall into this emerging focus. And, while my plan had always been to raise my prices for new clients as Oakleigh became more established, I am not raising prices for existing clients. They have taken a chance on me, and I’m committed to delivering above expectations.

 If you or someone you know is looking for a financial advisor, I’m always eager to help folks find a skilled CFP practitioner with high character and transparency, whether that person is me or not. I have developed relationships with other excellent independent financial planners across the country. They are committed to the same values of integrity, transparency, communication, and expertise, and they serve folks in other niches and with various service models.

In the meantime, please feel free to schedule a call or shoot me an email if you would like to discuss this new direction (or anything else). Please check out the new landing page on my website: www.oakleighwealth.com.

Thank you again for following Oakleigh. I’m so thankful to be a part of your journey, and that you are a part of mine.