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
Podcast
SIMPLE. 6
By Erik Garcia
We teach our kids not to…maybe we should be teaching them how to. Every week Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT and Erik Garcia, CFP® end the show with the encouragement to “Invest in Your Relationships.”…
Topics Building Us Podcast
Podcast
SIMPLE. 5
By Erik Garcia
It’s so delicious. Why wouldn’t you want to do this? Every week Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT and Erik Garcia, CFP® end the show with the encouragement to “Invest in Your Relationships.” But how? How…
Topics Building Us Podcast
Podcast
SIMPLE. 4
By Erik Garcia
How many times do you wish you would have…? And it’s so meaningful when someone does it for you. It’s so simple. Every week Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT and Erik Garcia, CFP® end the…
Topics Building Us Podcast
Podcast
SIMPLE. 3
By Erik Garcia
Leave it to the couples therapist to make this suggestion. You know you want to. Every week Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT and Erik Garcia, CFP® end the show with the encouragement to “Invest in…
Topics Building Us Podcast
Article
Tax Season Tips
By Erik Garcia
Tax Season Tips The day is coming, Tax Day! Preparing your taxes can be a real drag. It can feel like tax day looms over your spring! Well, fear not: the IRS has given you…
Topics Taxes
Article
Saving and Planning for Your Child’s College
By Erik Garcia
Saving and Planning for Your Child’s College College is CRAZY expensive. As a parent, where do you start planning for your child’s Higher Ed? There is so much competing for money. How much should you…
Topics College Planning
Podcast
SIMPLE. 2
By Erik Garcia
It costs you next to nothing, and pays serious dividends. It’s simple. Every week Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT and Erik Garcia, CFP® end the show with the encouragement to “Invest in Your Relationships.” But…
Topics Building Us Podcast
Podcast
SIMPLE. 1
By Erik Garcia
How can a little fresh air make a deposit in your relational and emotional “bank account”?” It’s simple. Every week Dr. Matt Morris, LPC, LMFT and Erik Garcia, CFP® end the show with the encouragement…
Topics Building Us Podcast
Podcast
Building Families: Meet NewOrleansMom.com Life Bosses
By Erik Garcia
Ashley Angelico and Elizabeth Schmelling built New Orleans’ premiere digital parenting resource. Serving both residents and visitors to New Orleans, Ashley and Elizabeth have become ambassadors for New Orleans and advocates for families. Dr. Matt…
Topics Building Us Podcast
