Last time I wrote to you about firm news, it was "way back" in 2019 to announce Rebecca Zegles was joining the practice.
Now, I'm pleased to announce after nearly 3 years of study, I am a CFP® professional!
I always considered the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification to be one of the most credible study paths in financial planning. Alas, our industry is rife with an alphabet soup of designations, but the CFP® certification is still sought-after, recognized and respected.
Even with several years in the business, it was no easy task. Curriculum included relevant focus areas in investment and tax planning, insurance and estate planning, educational and retirement planning, and general financial management. I know: Fun, right?!
What does this mean for you?
It means an even greater focus on the role of financial planning. We may have already addressed some of the topic areas mentioned above as part of our ongoing client/planner relationship, while other areas may not be as relevant to you and your specific situation.
No matter, as 2021 progresses, expect us to touch base and make sure your needs are being met.
No chance I did this alone!
I had a *ton* of support and flexibility along the way, including from you—my loyal clients and friends—and especially those very first clients and advisers who encouraged me to hang out a shingle in the first place.
Thank you also to:
Our own Rebecca, who effectively steered the business schedule around countless study days and weekends. And to friends who spent time proctoring a few progress exams before COVID threw us all for a loop. Thanks, Chris and Thomas!
My old firm and team. I was fortunate to spend the early years of my career with a firm and team on the cutting-edge of financial planning, striving to do what was best for clients long before doing so became a topic of debate in Washington. Not everyone gets a solid, ethical start in this business; I'm grateful I did. Thank you, RayJay and team.
Our friend and colleague, Terri, for validating my critical experience requirement.
Brett Danko and his in-person Philadelphia review, an intense, 3-day boot camp designed for success. To Brett and his crew, my appreciation and respect: The glass is forever half-full.
My sister, Claudia, who, since my parents passed away, has been on the receiving end of personal news and accomplishments I might've first shared with them. She's the best.
And, of course, my wife, Traci. There is a near-zero probability I would've made it through without her unending support and faith. During some dark study days last summer, difficult, unbelievably dry topic areas took me for a loop. I considered abandoning the multi-year program altogether, at what would've been great sunk cost and time. Fortunately, she encouraged me to push forward to the prize, and so it was. Forever grateful, my love.
She and I recently had dinner (at an actual restaurant!) with clients, near-family with whom I've worked for over 20 years. Along the way we've all shared much joy and some sadness and challenges—life, in other words. I'm amazed at how fast all those years flew by.
What is it they say? The days may be long, but the decades go by quickly... Indeed.
Each night I leave the office and give thanks for the privilege of serving.
And I'm looking forward to serving you and your family in the days—and years—ahead.
Let's go!
Edwin K. Retter, CFP®, CMT
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™
Chartered Market Technician®