Check out the latest edition of our newsletter!
JULY 2024
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How Lincoln Has Worked Tirelessly to Support FAI and Our Clients Growth & Innovation: Another Day at the Office
Plenty has changed at Financial Architects since I first joined the team in 2023, but in the best way possible. Hello everyone, I’m Lincoln Yaldoo, and since starting my role as a financial designer at FAI in January of last year, it’s been quite the whirlwind of innovation and growth. Today, I want to share a bit about what I do, the exciting directions we’re heading, and how we’re enhancing our services to better support our clients. Since joining FAI last year, my daily duties have varied but somehow managed to fit my skill set and passions perfectly. I work closely with our advisors to nurture existing client relationships and manage their portfolios. This interaction is not just about numbers; it’s about understanding people’s lives and goals and crafting strategies that resonate on a personal level. I also have been more than happy to make an immediate impact by revamping our Portfolio Steering Committee. This committee, composed of a dedicated group of advisors and myself, meets monthly to dissect and discuss the dynamic economic landscape, scrutinize our market outlooks, and strategize portfolio management. We had a similar initiative before my arrival, but I was keen on revitalizing it to ensure tighter integration and more innovative brainstorming among our team. It’s about getting everyone on the same page, reflecting collectively, and sparking ideas that drive our client strategies forward.
One of the most significant innovations FAI has experienced since my arrival has been the introduction of RightCapital, a cutting-edge financial software. This tool has transformed how we present our ideas and projections to clients. It’s been a robust addition, allowing us to offer a visual and interactive experience that clarifies clients’ financial landscapes and future paths. Implementing RightCapital was a major project, transitioning me from our back-end operations to a more client-facing role. It’s still a work in progress, but the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The platform offers a comprehensive dashboard that not only showcases updates from Financial Architects but also aggregates data from external accounts into one unified view. This integration has been a game-changer, providing our clients with a holistic view of their finances at a glance — a true one-stop shopping experience. Looking ahead, I’m preparing to take the Series 65 exam in the next couple of weeks. Passing this exam will enable me to deepen my involvement in direct client portfolio management and contribute even more effectively to our Portfolio Steering Committee. As markets continue to evolve, my goal is to bring enhanced insights and strength to our team, helping us navigate these changes with confidence and expertise. On a not-so-off-the-record note, the Portfolio Steering Committee plans to roll out some
exciting innovations to clients over the next few months, so keep an eye out!
Now, as for my journey here at FAI, it has been both challenging and rewarding. It’s pushed me to grow professionally and personally, continually adapting and learning in an ever-changing financial landscape. As we look to the future, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead — not just for me but for all our clients whom we strive to serve with the utmost dedication and innovation. Thank you for joining me on this journey. If you’re navigating your own financial path or looking for advice on managing your investments, don’t hesitate to reach out to our passionate team. Together, we can explore your options and work toward achieving your financial goals. –Lincoln Yaldoo
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Enjoying your own party can be more complicated than it sounds. Backyard barbecues are a high point of summer, but hosting one you enjoy with your guests requires planning. “If swimming is on the agenda, consider protecting new or light- colored indoor furniture with water-resistant covers so guests in wet swimsuits can sit wherever they want without stressing out their host,” says Calla Quinn, a TikTok influencer who recently posted tips on hosting up to 50 friends at your home. Another tip she shares is using of portable misting fans in dry climates. These devices create a fine mist to refresh passersby in seconds, and they are especially popular on patios and decks. Host a Summer Barbecue for Everyone GRILL AND CHILL
INSIDE FINANCIAL ARCHITECTS
We’ve made an exciting move to a new, upgraded office space!
We are thrilled to announce that Financial Architects has successfully moved into our new office at 27500 Drake Road, Suite 110! Our new space is a perfect blend of modern design and functionality, featuring an open-concept layout and abundant natural light thanks to the extensive use of glass. With this enhanced modern space, we can boost our team’s creativity
and provide our clients with even better service with top-notch amenities. From a state-of-the-art meeting room to a comfortable lobby lounge to a brand-new cappuccino and latte machine for clients, every detail has been
If attendees offer to bring something, don’t hesitate to accept, and be specific about what you want — from lawn chairs to beach towels. Martha Stewart recommends having a stain remover on hand to manage stains and cloth towels that guests can use to wipe up spills.
**New Office Location** 27500 Drake Rd. Suite 110 Farmington Hills, MI 48331
1 st floor - South Lobby entrance of the Drake Building
thoughtfully designed to support both our work and our client interactions.
Expert hosts also recommend a self-serve bar for casual summer gatherings. Consider filling several 3-gallon drink dispensers with popular options. Depending on your guest list, you might offer family fare such as lemonade, iced tea, ice water, or premixed cocktails like strawberry vodka lemonade or passion fruit margaritas. Martha Stewart suggests allowing amateur mixologists to concoct their own beverages by setting out bottled juices, artisanal sodas, and kombucha. A stylish yet simple way to serve hors d’oeuvres and side dishes to complement your grilled entree is to assemble or have catered a charcuterie board. These feature finger foods such as meats, cheeses, olives, spreads, fruits, nuts, chips, and crackers. A fully stocked charcuterie board adds a decorative touch while keeping guests well-fed for hours, adding what Quinn calls “a real wow factor.” And to make sure your day ends well, look for disposable, compostable bamboo or wooden dishes. Searching for “eco- friendly tableware and cutlery” should turn up some good options. This one last detail can go a long way toward supporting sustainable living while ensuring you don’t spend any valuable party time cleaning up broken glass or washing dishes.
Kristi Laporte, our operations manager, shares her enthusiasm about the move: “The transition to our new office has been incredibly smooth, and the new space exceeds our expectations. The open concept and modern amenities create an inviting atmosphere that enhances our productivity and client experience. We’re excited about the future and the opportunities this new environment brings for both our team and our valued clients.” The attached photo can assist you when you come to the office. Please enter the building from Drake Road and follow the signs to the south lobby entrance. We’re thrilled to meet you at our new office! – The Financial Architects Team
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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Laura McKelvey Chat With a Client
Take a Break
HOW DID YOU GET CONNECTED TO FINANCIAL ARCHITECTS? In 2009, I became a client of FAI after a recommendation from a fellow church member to see Ken Grace. I was single at the time and had just moved from Michigan to Virginia due to a corporate relocation. Finding myself with a significant relo bonus in an extremely volatile market, I was unsure of what to do or where to start. Thankfully Ken paired me with Chris Cousins as my financial advisor and he set me on the path of
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solid asset management. Over the years via various risk assessments, financial modeling, consultations, and just plain handholding, I’ve felt very comfortable with my FAI support team (especially Chris and Jan Winters). Today, 15 years later, I largely attribute my financial security and independence to my relationship with FAI.
Summer Pizza Inspired by AllRecipes.com
Fire up the flavor with a grilled summer pizza loaded with veggies and light on the cheese.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS OR YOUR PROFESSIONAL PASSION?
INGREDIENTS
I had a terrific career of 30-plus years with Volkswagen of America headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan, and Northern Virginia, as well as rich volunteer experiences in the U.S. and overseas. As my retirement time was approaching, I was uncertain what the future would look like without the identity of my professional career. I had a great opportunity to pilot the Life Method with John and Danette Bell a few years prior to my 2018 retirement. They helped me navigate and identify my personal, financial, spiritual, and volunteer priorities. I gained clarity in the tremendously important areas of community and purpose for my future. Finally, the uncertainties of a future without full-time work became less daunting. WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO FOR THE REMAINDER OF 2024? I have the best life, shared with Skip, my lifelong friend and partner. We split our time between Greenville, S.C., and Northern Michigan. We truly have the best of both worlds … a relaxing, rural lake life in the summers and contemporary, active city life in the winters complete with our passions of travel, music, teaching, friends and family. We share our South Carolina time with my son, Philip, daughter-in-law, Clare, and 4-year-old and 2-year-old grandchildren (for whom we are Lolli and Pops!). Life couldn’t be better!
• 1 lb pizza dough • 1/4 cup pesto • 1/3 cup shredded quesadilla cheese • 10 thin slices of zucchini • 10 thin slices of summer squash • 2 mini bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1 thin slice of red onion, diced • 1 strip cooked bacon, chopped Butter Glaze (optional) • 1 tbsp butter • 1 tsp steak seasoning
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat grill to high heat on one side. 2. Reduce the flame on half of the grill burners to low. 3. Roll out pizza dough into a circle. Place dough on the grill over high heat. 4. Close the cover and let dough grill for 1–3 minutes until bottom is slightly cooked and shows char marks. 5. Use tongs to flip crust over and move it to the low- heat side. 6. Brush dough with pesto, sprinkle with cheese, and evenly distribute veggies and bacon. 7. Grill for about 3 minutes until cheese is melted; then carefully remove. 8. Optional: Combine butter and seasoning. Brush crust edges with butter glaze and place pizza in broiler until golden.
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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27500 Drake Road Suite 110 Farmington Hills, MI 48331
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
248-482-3600 www.financialarch.com
Inside This Issue 1 | Lincoln’s Dedication to Client Care and Steering Committee
2 | Tips for a Stress-Free Backyard Barbecue
2 | Inside Financial Architects
3 | Chat With a Client: Laura McKelvey
3 | Summer Pizza
4 | A Must-Do Guide for Chiang Mai
If you’d like to record a client video testimonial, please contact Matt Dery at MDery@financialarch.com or 248-482-3600.
Unlock the Wonders of Chiang Mai TEMPLES, WATERFALLS, AND NIGHT MARKETS AWAIT The beautiful Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand. Known for its historic temples, lovely mountains, and cool weather, it has become one of the most popular
up the waterfall without slipping. You can find different paths with varying degrees of difficulty for adventurous explorers. EXPERIENCE THE NIGHT BAZAAR. If you’re looking for authentic food, great bargains on gifts, and an exciting scene, you have to visit the city’s famous Night Bazaar. This is one of the oldest night markets in the country, and the nearly 1-mile stretch is packed with vendors who sell art and delicious street food. Give yourself at least a few hours to take in the whole experience of this beloved destination. With its scenic views and lively culture, Chiang Mai blends traditional and unexpected adventures. Whether you’re feeding an elephant at one of the city’s sanctuaries, hiking in the mountains, or chowing down on local cuisine, this gem of Northern Thailand will surely enchant you!
WALK UP A WATERFALL. Have you ever walked on water? You can literally walk up the Bua Thong Waterfall, known as the Sticky Waterfall. This remarkable natural space is located just outside the city in the Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park and draws many visitors annually. The porous limestone rocks of Bua Thong are sticky and allow people to climb
tourist destinations in the country! Whether you seek cultural wonders, lush landscapes, or jungle experiences, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting city. Grab your passport and sense of adventure as we explore some of the best activities for your Chiang Mai vacation! EXPLORE THE TEMPLES. Impressive temples are all over Chiang Mai, and they are unbeatable outings. While larger temples, like Wat Phra Singh, have a small admission price, smaller temples are typically free. Remember to dress appropriately for your visit, covering your shoulders and removing your hat. Intricate structures and statues adorn many temples and are truly peaceful places.
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