Check out the latest edition of our newsletter!
AUGUST 2024
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Introducing the New Home of Financial Architects, Inc. Architecting a Bright Future
Financial Architects is proudly approaching our 40th anniversary. As a company, we didn’t sustain our longevity by being complacent. We have always been adaptable in order to provide the best possible service for our clients and the best work culture for our employees. It’s only fitting that we, for only the third time in our near 40-year history, usher in the next era of our success in a brand-new state-of-the-art facility. As Executive Vice President of Financial Architects, I have had the honor of assisting clients in architecting their financial futures for over 34 years. However, it wasn’t until now that I had the responsibility of actually architecting a building! Our new facility may only be a few miles from our previous location, but it is truly worlds apart in its modernistic aesthetic and multitude of amenities. Although it served us well for two decades, our previous office was dated and just wasn’t meeting the current needs of our growing company. Our new facility is transformative and was custom designed specifically for us while also providing us with optimal flexibility now and into the future. Our goal was to architect an inspiring space that would boost productivity, creativity, and overall employee contentment in order to best serve our clients. The space integrates all the latest technology and features hybrid work spaces that support
small-team collaboration, private in-person client meetings, full-staff gatherings, and personalized individual employee spaces. Interestingly, one of the most important requests of our staff was for improved lighting. The contemporary architecture of the new Financial Architects facility incorporates a glass wall design that allows natural light to stream from exterior windows throughout the entire space. An additional feature for our employees is a full-service gym that allows our staff to wind down from or gear up for their work day. Another standout feature of our new home is the 40-person lecture hall adjacent to our main office suite. It will be used for educational and social client events. It is a fantastic addition that will allow us to engage with clients in new and meaningful ways. There are many innovative details throughout the design. One of my favorites is that every workstation features the latest innovations in ergonomic office equipment design. For example, our staff now has the flexibility of adjusting their desk height so they can work standing or sitting. They can change it to accommodate different tasks they are completing or for their personal comfort preference. We are also pleased to have a green-friendly office. As a result of having access to all the latest technology, our office is now virtually paperless.
Architecting a brand-new facility was a monumental task, one that I did not complete on my own. FAI’s Operations Manager, Kristi Laporte, and I worked collaboratively to bring the blueprint to fruition. Kristi was not only the voice representing the needs and wants of our support team and advisors, but she was also instrumental in directing the overall design. I am forever grateful for her involvement and design flair. Our clients have always been at the heart of everything we do, and our new office embodies that. We are dedicated to staying ahead of industry trends and ensuring our services and facilities are top notch. We are all incredibly excited to share our new space with you and are planning an open house for the fall. We can’t wait for you to see firsthand how our new environment is designed to enhance your interactions with us. The new Financial Architects facility is a significant step forward in our journey as a company. It reflects our preparedness for the future, our continued commitment to excellence, and our dedication to providing the best possible service to our clients. Thank you for being a part of our foundation! We look forward to continuing to architect a bright future with each and every one of you! – Patrick Marody
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Camping is an excellent way for families to disconnect from their devices and spend time together — but traveling to a campsite isn’t always feasible. Instead of forgoing this treasured summer activity, think outside the box and discover the best campsite you’ll ever pitch a tent in — your own backyard. Here are our two tips for success. MAKE A PACT TO STAY OUTSIDE (NO CHEATING)! If you’re going to pretend you’re camping, you have to commit fully. That means no running into the house except for bathroom breaks or emergencies! To ensure you don’t disrupt your fun, pitch your tent and set up your campsite, double-checking that everything you need is present and in working order. It’s also not a bad idea to stash extra supplies (like batteries) or a first-aid kit in a tote before heading outside. And don’t forget the cooler! Stock it with juice boxes and other cold beverages or fruit, plus easy-to-heat-and-eat foods like hot dogs, cans of soup, or even store-bought camping meals you simply add boiling water to. GET CREATIVE WITH CAMPFIRE CUISINE. The best part of camping is the time spent around the campfire, and mealtimes are an ideal excuse for this summer tradition. Don’t have a firepit? No problem! A charcoal grill works just as well. Roasting hot dogs on sticks over a bonfire is a classic camping experience your kids will remember forever. Buying extra sticks, chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows make crafting s’mores a breeze. Are you looking for something a little healthier? Foil packets filled with rice, proteins, vegetables, and flavorful liquids like broth or wine can be placed near the fire for hands-free cooking. Get creative with your dishes, and you might discover a new family favorite to add to your weekly rotation — or to savor and keep as a campground specialty. You might forget you never left home as you tell spooky stories, go on scavenger hunts in your yard, and enjoy other campsite activities or games. Camping doesn’t have to happen at some exotic location — what matters is time spent together unplugged from your tech and plugged into nature. Backyard Camping Made Easy PITCH A TENT TO MAKE MEMORIES
INSIDE FINANCIAL ARCHITECTS
Hello everyone, I’m Colin Eads, and I’m excited to be interning at Financial Architects this summer. I’m a rising sophomore at the University of Alabama, studying finance with a minor in investment banking and personal wealth management. I graduated from U of D Jesuit High
School, where I played soccer and lacrosse.
At Alabama, I learn everything from investment strategies to personal wealth management. These studies have sparked my passion for helping people manage their finances and plan for the future. This summer at FAI has been an amazing experience. I’ve been actively involved in the firm’s business development and marketing side, working on various projects to help grow our client base and enhance our brand presence. From creating marketing materials to supporting business development initiatives, I’ve gained hands- on experience that has been challenging and rewarding. The team here has been incredibly supportive, and I’ve learned so much from their expertise and guidance. A huge thank you to Financial Architects for giving me this opportunity. It’s been a fantastic learning experience, and I’m grateful for the chance to contribute to the team. Special thanks to Matt Dery for taking me under his wing and providing invaluable mentorship throughout my internship.
I’m looking forward to taking what I’ve learned here and applying it to my future studies and career.
– Colin Eads
The information contained in this newsletter is derived from sources believed to be accurate. You should discuss any legal, tax, or financial matters with the appropriate professional. Neither the information presented nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Investment Advisory Services offered through FAI Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser.
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Amy Walsh Chat With a Client
Take a Break
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HOW DID YOU GET CONNECTED TO FINANCIAL ARCHITECTS? In 2013, we were looking to get a new financial planner in place. We felt like we were making good decisions but wanted to make sure we were set for the future. I was freelancing from home at the time, and my husband had worked at GM for almost 30 years. A colleague of mine mentioned Financial Architects and Chris Cousins. We were on a learning curve for about eight months when I had a life-altering event; my spouse died in an unexpected accident. Chris and his team immediately helped me and continue to help as I have raised my two teenage sons to adulthood. I will always be grateful for them during that time and today. Thanks to Chris, we continue to thrive personally and professionally!
Lime Chicken With Corn and Poblano Salad Inspired by PureWow.com
There’s still time to enjoy sweet summer corn with this lime chicken dish.
INGREDIENTS
Chicken • 3 tbsp olive oil
Corn and poblano salad • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 poblano peppers, diced • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1 14-oz can of corn • 4 scallions, minced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour • 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper • 1 1/2 tsp salt • 3/4 tsp black pepper • Zest of 1 lime • 8 chicken thighs
TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS OR YOUR PROFESSIONAL PASSION?
I work in human resources at our school district here in Clarkston. It has been very rewarding, and I work with really great people! Prior to working with Clarkston Community Schools, I freelanced in marketing for a few years after leaving a career in marketing and advertising at GM.
• Juice of 2 limes • 1/3 cup chopped cilantro • Salt and pepper
1. Preheat oven to 400 F. 2. In a large oven-proof skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. 3. In a bowl, whisk flour, spices, and lime zest. Dredge chicken in the mix to coat. 4. Add chicken, skin-side down, to skillet, then place skillet in the oven for 30–35 minutes. 5. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil and add poblanos. Sauté 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute. 6. In a bowl, add poblano mix, corn, scallions, lime juice, and cilantro, toss and serve with the chicken. DIRECTIONS
WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO FOR THE REMAINDER OF 2024? As we are halfway through the year, I look forward to more travel and new experiences! I love being outdoors, and I also look forward to attending/watching sporting events in the fall/winter months. And of course, spending time with my family and my mini dachshund, Franklin!
This is a testimonial by an existing client of FAI Advisors. No compensation was provided for this testimonial. This client’s experience is not necessarily representative of all clients’ experiences.
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248-482-3600 www.financialarch.com
Inside This Issue 1 | Introducing the New Home of Financial Architects, Inc.
2 | Discover the Campground in Your Own Backyard (Literally)
2 | Inside Financial Architects
3 | Chat With a Client: Amy Walsh
3 | Lime Chicken With Corn and Poblano Salad
4 | The Ultimate Beach Retreats to Visit This Year
If you’d like to record a client video testimonial, please contact Matt Dery at MDery@financialarch.com or 248-482-3600.
Jet-Set to Paradise DISCOVER 2024’S TOP TROPICAL GETAWAYS
vibrant cities. Whether you want to stroll down the historic neighborhood of Casco Viejo and marvel at the architecture or visit one of its museums, Panama gives guests a mix of activities and chances to spoil themselves. SAINT KITTS The island of Saint Kitts is a nature-lover’s paradise in the West Indies. With rainforests, mountains, and serene shores, you can explore by land or relax on the beach. Catch a glimpse of elusive green vervet monkeys at Mount Liamuiga or step back in time by visiting the Brimstone Hill National Fortress. Snorkeling and golf are popular pastimes in this growing hot spot of the Caribbean. As you plan for your next great tropical escape, set sail for one of 2024’s hottest destinations. Whether you want to traverse nature or lounge on immaculate beaches all day, your seaside oasis awaits you!
COSTA RICA There’s a reason Travel + Leisure named Costa Rica the best destination in 2024. Known worldwide for its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and unique biodiversity, this peaceful nation is a haven for nature lovers. You can explore the jungle and view native animals by visiting one of the country’s volcanoes, nature preserves, or the Térraba-Sierpe Wetland, Costa Rica’s largest mangrove swamps. If you want the most luxurious experience possible, the Nayara Tented Camp is one of the newest hot spots for a glamping trip. The resort is made up of private tents at a spot with incredible views and offers five-star amenities. PANAMA If you want a mix of old-world charm and modern splendor, Panama has established itself as one of the “it” destinations for travelers. This country offers a little bit of everything, from rainforests and beaches to
Palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and intimate jungle views — if you’re ready to fly off to a tropical paradise in 2024, this year’s trend is small beach resorts and private retreats. If you want to book a tropical trip, you should check out these destinations that travel experts can’t stop talking about. Grab your sunscreen and a sense of adventure because these three destinations are sailing atop the charts!
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