Clarity Financial Design
SRQ BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
When it comes to finding financial clarity, having a dedicated and understanding partner is key. Meet Melissa Walsh, a financial advisor and the owner of Clarity Financial Design, who goes the extra mile to truly understand your unique story and help you plan for your financial future.
But Melissa's impact goes beyond her professional role. She actively gives back to the Sarasota community, dedicating her time to support organizations that make a meaningful difference in the lives of local children and families.
Melissa is involved in various crucial roles, including being a board member and finance committee member at The Florida Center, a leading provider of therapeutic services and early education in southwest Florida. She also contributes as a finance committee member for Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, focusing on developing leadership skills for girls. In addition, Melissa serves as a trustee and finance committee member at Community Day School, a private Jewish day school in Sarasota that fosters an inclusive and supportive environment.
I had the pleasure of meeting Melissa in person when she reached out for business portraits. Little did I know that she was preparing for a remarkable achievement – receiving the prestigious 40 Under 40 award from Investment News. This national recognition celebrates and honors rising stars in the financial advice industry. It was inspiring to witness Melissa's dedication and commitment to her profession, and I'm excited to share her story with you.
What inspired you to start your own business?
I've always had an entrepreneurial mindset and dreamed of owning my own business one day. When I learned that there was a tremendous opportunity to serve people in a new, modern way, I realized that it was my calling to open a business that would allow me to serve more people the way that they deserve to be served.
When was the business founded?
Clarity Financial Design was founded on October 19th, 2021
What is your business slogan or motto?
"You deserve financial clarity"
What makes your business unique?
I think that the "traditional" financial services model tends to intimidate and underwhelm many people simultaneously. The way I serve my clients is both soft and sharp, informed but never intimidating. I work with my clients to help them align their values and goals with their money, which builds deep and trusting relationships.
What product/services do you offer?
Fee-only fiduciary financial planning
What inspires your work and what sets you apart from everyone else?
I come from generations of families filled with women and am now raising my own daughters, so creating a service model that is open and welcoming to women is very meaningful to me. When I opened my business, I was very focused on serving women, but I've learned that the approach that I use when partnering with my clients is appealing to many people!
What has been your biggest success to date?
I was recently honored by an industry publication - Investment News - as a 40 Under 40 recipient. The award recognizes and celebrates up-and-comers in the financial advice industry.
https://www.investmentnews.com/awards-and-recognition/40-under-40-2
What has been your biggest challenge?
My own confidence. I think people assume that "imposter syndrome" goes away or gets better at some point, but I still find myself worrying about my place in this industry. I tell my daughters that "being nervous means that you care" all the time, and use the mantra with myself occasionally too!
What’s your best advice for someone who wants to start a business?
DO IT AFRAID! I used to think that I would start my business when I felt "ready", but to be honest, I was TERRIFIED to do it and had to do it afraid. It was the best decision I've made professionally. Especially for female entrepreneurs, don't let fear stand in between you and your calling.
What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I'm an identical twin!
What do you love the most about Sarasota?
Our community! I love living in a place with world-class amenities and a small-town feel. I grew up here in Sarasota (go Pine View Pythons!) so I really appreciate being able to go to one of the best beaches in the world and run into a long-time friend.
If I had an extra $100,000, I would….
One of the best things about being a financial advisor who is married to a financial analyst is that we've gotten crystal clear on aligning our family's money with our goals. As a result, we spend money on things that matter to our family (intentional hospitality, global experiences, being outside) and save money on things that we don't prioritize (we don't wear fancy clothes or drive fancy cars). If I had an extra $100,000, I would save it to fund future quality time with family and friends.
How do you define success?
To be a supportive, loving, and enthusiastic wife, mom, daughter, and friend.
To be a diligent and caring advisor to all who put their trust in me.
To be an advocate for women and girls in my community, country, and around the world.
To share my sunshine with those in need.
What’s the next step for your business?
Help more people! I am currently expanding my offerings by offering a course to help people of all ages with understanding and implementing the basics of financial success.
CLARITY FINANCIAL DESIGN
Melissa Walsh CFA, CFP, AIF
Founder and President
website: www.clarityfinancialdesign.com
phone: 407-494-0593
email: melissa@clarityfinancialdesign.com
ABOUT SRQ BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Tell us YOUR small business success story for a chance to be featured in the SRQ business spotlight!
In this project, Sylwia Ok Photography highlights small businesses in the SRQ area. If you are a business owner and would like to have your business featured here on the blog and on social media, contact me through this form, and let’s talk about your own Business Spotlight!
