I never set out to work in financial services—my plan was to become a teacher. While finishing my final semester at Utica College of Syracuse University in 2007, I took a part-time filing job at a financial firm to earn some extra income. But what started as temporary work quickly turned into something I loved. I was drawn to the organization, the problem-solving, and the sense of purpose that came with helping clients. Instead of stepping into a classroom, I decided to stay and build a career that continues to challenge and inspire me nearly two decades later.
Since then, I’ve grown my expertise in operations and leadership, earning my FINRA Series 7 license in 2021 and my Series 66 license in 2024. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of serving in leadership roles, including on Osaic’s Service Excellence Council (formerly the National Operations Excellence Council) in 2022. In January 2025, I was selected to return to the council—a role I’m honored to hold as we continue working together to enhance efficiency, collaboration, and the overall client experience. After spending most of my career with one firm, I was drawn to Xavier and Erik’s client-centered approach to financial planning. After many great conversations, I knew it was the right fit and officially joined the Plan Wisely team in November 2024.
On a personal note:
Outside of work, my story centers on family and community. My husband, Andrew, and I live in West Winfield, NY, where we’re raising our three daughters. Between soccer and volleyball schedules, school events, and cheering for our favorite teams (the Buffalo Bills, Manchester City F.C., the USMNT, and UNC), there’s always something happening—and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Giving back and staying active are big parts of who we are as a family. Each year, I take part in the American Heart Association’s Heart Run and Walk in Utica, honoring family members affected by heart disease and remembering my Uncle Frank. We also proudly support the Kelberman Center’s annual autism fundraising efforts and walk to celebrate my niece—and the unique, wonderful qualities autism has awarded her. Both causes are deeply personal to me and remind our family of the power of compassion, awareness, and community.
And if you know me, you know I’m rarely without a great pair of heels, a bold lip color, and a good laugh with family or friends. I believe life’s better when you bring a little style, warmth, and joy to everything you do—whether that’s at work, at home, or somewhere in between.
My Content
Article
The Importance of a Rainy Day Fund :: Why You Need One And How to Set It Up
By Erik Garcia
The Importance of A Rainy Day Fund For those of us in South Louisiana, we know all too well the inconvenience and disruption of our lives from hurricanes. These storms disrupt our finances as well….
Topics Saving
Podcast
At the Intersection of Money, Health and Happiness With Ryan Goulart
By Erik Garcia
Why do people do what they do? And, is it possible for one to be who they would ideally like to be, more often? In this episode of the Building Us podcast, Ryan Goulart, co-author…
Podcast
The Best Way to Join Money in Marriage
By Erik Garcia
Should couples have married or separate financial accounts? Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT, and Erik Garcia, CFP®, dive into the pros and cons of each – as well as some of the underlying psychology. The…
Topics Building Us Podcast, Couples & Money
Article
Managing Money as a Couple
By Erik Garcia
Managing Money as a Couple What does the data tell us about love and money? When you marry or simply share a household with someone, your life changes—and your approach to managing your money may…
Topics Couples & Money
Podcast
3 Decisions Warren Buffet Says Will Change Your Life
By Erik Garcia
In this episode of Building Us podcast hosted by Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT, and Erik Garcia, CFP®, Erik and Matt explore some of Warren Buffet’s life-changing philosophies. ‘Hit fewer bad shots’ is Erik’s advice…
Article
Simple Steps To Raising Money-Savvy Kids
By Erik Garcia
Did you know that children’s financial habits are set by the age of seven? They also start picking up on money concepts as young as three! The habits they emulate come almost entirely from parents…
Topics Kids & Money
Podcast
Food Is Life – Parenting a Child With Severe Food Allergies, With Erik & Jennifer Garcia
By Erik Garcia
In today’s episode of the Building Us podcast, Jennifer Garcia and Erik Garcia, CFP® recount their journey of discovering their son’s severe food allergies, and carefully guiding their family through it. 17 years later, now,…
Topics Building Us Podcast
Article
How to Pay Off Debt
By Erik Garcia
Paying off Debt? Start Here. Part of prudently managing debt is making sure you have a plan to repay what you borrow. Any plan starts with a solid grasp of your budget and a full…
Topics Debt Management
Podcast
Special Needs Parenting: Life Isn’t Always Fabuloso with David & Andrea Carothers
By Erik Garcia
Raising a special needs child is a mixed bag of emotions. This week Erik Garcia, CFP®, and Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT sit down with David and Andrea Carothers as they share the joys and…
Topics Building Us Podcast

