I’m a graduate of the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Business Administration. My cumulative 14 years spent at Fidelity Investments started as an internship during my final year of studies. I was retained by Fidelity upon graduation and proceeded to work my way through the ranks, quickly becoming a Vice President & Senior Account Executive, where I was directly responsible for the overseeing of a portfolio valued at one billion dollars. I advised my clients on investments, retirement planning, risk-management as well as trust and estate planning alternatives. I was honored to receive multiple awards of excellence including three President’s Circle awards during my time with the firm.  My dream of starting my own business, which truly puts client’s needs first, became a reality when I launched Heartwood Financial Services in 2012.

I am a CERTIFIED FINANICAL PLANNER™ professional and member of the Financial Planning Association (FPA). The Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANICAL PLANNER™ in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete the CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.  I also hold a CKA ® certification. The Certified Kingdom Advisor® designation sets me apart as a financial advisor who has pursued faith/work integration to the highest credentialed level in the financial advising world.

From its inception, and forward into the future of Heartwood, I play a vital role in the growth and development of my company.

I’ve been married to Heartwood’s founder for nearly 25 years now – can you believe it? We have two wonderful boys, Andrew and Sam, who are now grown men but will always be my babies. When I’m not helping out around the office, you’ll likely find me getting my sweat on at OrangeTheory – those classes are no joke but always leave me feeling so energized! Music is another passion of mine, so on Sundays I love lending my voice to the worship band at our church. Beyond my family and fitness, one of my greatest loves is traveling the world. There’s nothing like experiencing new places, peoples and perspectives. While Heartwood keeps Demel busy, I’m grateful I can support him from the sidelines, and be his constant support and cheerleader.

Growing up in Arizona, 4^th generation, Florida didn’t sound like a place I’d want to live- alligators, hurricanes, shark attacks, and lightning strikes galore, so moving here in early 2008 was a giant leap of faith.

With a baby on my hip, a toddler in a stroller, armed with thoughts of Disney and beaches, we made the move. Turns out, it has been a big blessing.  After all of these years, we are very rooted here, and happy to call Central Florida our home.  My two sons have grown up in Sanford, and we are grateful to know so many wonderful people in this community.

In 1998, already with a degree in Psychology, I embarked on a teaching career that spanned over twenty years. Over the course of my time in Elementary Education, I taught ages 4-14, spent several years working with children on the autism spectrum, and had wonderful experiences with my students and colleagues that I’ll always treasure.  I remain in touch with many students, and am fortunate enough to count some of their moms among my dearest friends.

In education, the teacher is always a student. We’re hard wired to have a growth mindset, and I was ready for a change. I wanted to use my brain in a new way, and jump in the deep end. As the granddaughter, daughter, and sister of men in this industry, I was already familiar with the business, so it felt very natural to move towards this industry. 

At Heartwood Financial Services, I’m lucky enough to wear many hats and spend my days on marketing, operations, compliance, and administrative tasks.

When I’m not working, I’m busy running around with kids, and enjoying all that Central Florida has to offer.

We’d love to connect with you and hear your story.