Alexa Kane, CFP®, CDFA®, AIF®

Philosophy on Financial Planning

Many people mistake financial planning with investing, but it is much more than that. Over the years I have seen how important it is to address all areas of financial planning to set yourself up for success. Failure to properly title your assets can cost your beneficiaries both money and time. Not being aware of the latest tax laws can have you unnecessarily paying a higher tax bill. Add in retirement, education and insurance planning and it becomes a lot to juggle. Having a well thought out financial plan gives you a roadmap showing us where you are, where you want to go and how to get there.

Three Favorite Words

Community | Opportunity | Adventure

Childhood Collection

My first childhood collection also taught me my first lesson in investing. It is hard to admit it, but I spent all my hard-earned babysitting and refereeing money on Beanie Babies. I bought tag covers, cases and more Happy Meals than I can count. My bedroom was a shrine to these Beanie Babies and I thought they were going to make me rich. The Beanie Baby Bubble burst in the late 90’s and I was left with two Rubbermaids filled with worthless stuffed animals.

A Quote on my Desk

"The only way to do great work is to love what you do."

You might bump into me…

Checking out a brewery or winery...Chasing my sons…Visiting National Parks...Reading my latest book club pick.

Background

I graduated from South Dakota State University with a degree in Consumer Affairs and an emphasis on family financial management. After college I moved out to Colorado and spent 6 years at M.J. Smith and Associates. I started out in the paraprofessional role and was later promoted to senior financial consultant. During that time, I earned my Certified Financial Planner® and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® designations.

I was paired up with Melissa Joy as part of the Women’s Leadership Alliance mentorship program several years ago. She helped me grow as a financial advisor and deepen my focus on helping women going through life’s transitions. Melissa and I remained in contact over the years and when we decided to move to Michigan to be closer to family, she was one of my first calls. I have been working with Melissa and the amazing team at Pearl Planning for over two years!

Outside of work my husband, Matt, and I are busy wrangling our boys (Patrick, 5 & Johannes 1) and Belgian Malinois, Oliver. We love playing & watching hockey, camping and travelling when we get the chance.