My Story

From Survival to Strategy: The Vested Story

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Ten years ago, Vested Client Services didn’t begin with a business plan — it began with a lifeline.

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At the time, I was navigating personal challenges and unsure of what was next.  I was newly divorced, raising three children, unemployed, and recovering from an injury that made job-hunting nearly impossible. Out of the blue, a trusted friend — an independent financial advisor — reached out with an opportunity. He asked if I’d be willing to help two of his clients, both NFL players, by reviewing their books. I had a background in bookkeeping, but I didn’t know exactly what the work would entail. I said yes anyway. That very day, I received two emails confirming I’d officially taken over their financials — and just like that, Vested’s journey had begun.

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At first, I wasn’t trying to build a business — I was focused on stability. But about a year later, that advisor transitioned out, and I assumed my work would end with him. Instead, another advisor stepped in and told me something I’ll never forget: “The clients don’t want to lose you. What would it take for you to stay?” We renegotiated terms, and for the first time, I chose to keep going — not just out of necessity, but with intention.

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From that point on, what started as basic bookkeeping expanded into something far more dynamic. I began managing bill pay, budgeting, lifestyle management, and small business bookkeeping. Behind the scenes, I quietly wrestled with imposter syndrome — questioning whether I was enough, whether I was doing it right, would I let everyone down? But what kept me going was the trust of my clients and the encouragement of mentors who reminded me that this work mattered — that I mattered, and I should take a leap of faith.

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Through every challenge, it was my faith that grounded me. In the quiet moments of uncertainty — when I questioned my capability or the path I was on — I was reminded that this wasn’t just work. It was purpose. This business wasn’t built by accident; it was entrusted to me. That conviction has been my constant through every season of doubt, guiding me with clarity when the way forward wasn’t always clear.

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Over time, I was able to build the kind of support system I once only imagined. I partnered with Brendan, a specialist in financial reporting, whose values and work ethic mirrored my own. As the workload grew, I took a leap and brought my daughter on part-time to assist with scanning, filing, and day-to-day operations. It was a small but meaningful step in sharing the load. Eventually, I made the decision to hire my first full-time executive assistant — a move that felt both daunting and exhilarating.

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Brendan’s role grew organically, and in 2025, we officially acquired his bookkeeping company and brought him in as Vested’s VP of Financial Services and Client Relations. Trusting others with what I built wasn’t easy, but it turned out to be one of the most pivotal and rewarding decisions I’ve made. With Brendan on board, we expanded our service model — introducing two distinct divisions: one for high-net-worth individuals and athletes, and another dedicated to small business owners –broadening our range of clients without compromising on our personalized, boutique approach.

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To this day, I’ve never marketed Vested in a traditional sense. Every client has come through word-of-mouth — from advisors, CPAs, attorneys, or clients themselves. That trust is not something I take lightly. I’ve built this firm on transparency, integrity, and deep relationships. We’re not a high-volume, transactional shop. We’re a boutique partner, walking hand-in-hand with our clients through every stage of life.

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From the very beginning, I’ve made transparency a cornerstone of my work. I’ve witnessed firsthand the damage that financial mismanagement can cause, and I’ve been determined never to be part of that story. My goal has always been to be the kind of partner clients can trust completely — someone who understands the details of their lives and makes decisions rooted in their best interest, every single time.

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