Comprehensive Financial Planning for the Independent Woman

We help women take charge, and write their own financial story.

Comprehensive Financial Planning for the Independent Woman

We help women take charge, and write their own financial story.

Our goal is to empower our clients to create and preserve generational wealth.

We understand the unique financial challenges that many in the Black community face, and we are committed to providing the education and resources necessary to help our clients make informed decisions about their financial futures.

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A more personal approach to financial planning

No two retirements, portfolios, or investment strategies are the same. Before we make any recommendations, we take the time to learn who you are and what you hope to achieve. From there, our team will create a plan that addresses what’s most important to you, while considering your entire financial picture.

And as your needs and goals change, we’ll work with you to adapt your plan so it seamlessly transitions along with you.

Our Process

Our Team’s Difference

Integrity: Being your trusted financial professional is a privilege, and we acknowledge this by aiming to be transparent, informative, and solution-focused in our advice.

Support: We’re here to be your advocate, celebrate your wins, and provide insight and education to help you in reaching your financial goals.

Experience: Our team’s range of skills, education, and knowledge gives us the ability to provide you with the information you need to make informed financial decisions.

Meet Our Team

Services

Financial Planning

Whether it’s owning your own home, funding your children’s education, or creating a stress-free retirement, a financial plan is considered vital in working towards your goals. We use a consultative approach to create a financial plan that aims to meet your objectives.

Retirement Planning

Retirement planning shouldn’t start at retirement; it should start well before. We take a long-term view of your financial wellbeing to help create a life after work that is as well-planned as your life while working.

Investment Planning

Through developing a personalized investment strategy, diversification, and avoiding short-term distractions, we aim to help create and preserve your wealth so you reach your financial goals.

Recent Blogs

The Fed Raised Rates. What Does That Mean for Your Money?

The Federal Reserve recently increased interest rates by 0.25%, with another increase potentially coming before the end of the year. Higher rates can mean better opportunities for savers, higher costs for borrowers, and some market movement for investors. But you don't need to make financial decisions based on headlines alone. In our latest article, we break down what the Fed's decision could mean for your savings, debt, and investments, and what you may want to review now. Read the full article to learn more.

Life Insurance Is About More Than a Death Benefit

Life insurance is about more than a policy or a death benefit. It’s about protecting the people you love and giving them financial stability, time, and choices when the unexpected happens. In recognition of Life Insurance Awareness Month, I’m sharing why reviewing your coverage is an important part of protecting the life you’ve worked so hard to build.

Mental Health, Money, and the Pressure We Don’t Always Talk About

Money stress is real, especially during seasons when the bills feel overwhelming or the market feels uncertain. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Nicole Carson, CFP®, MBA shares a personal reflection on the connection between mental wellness and financial wellness, along with gentle reminders that you do not have to navigate financial stress alone. Read the full blog to explore how financial planning can bring more clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

You Don’t Need to Choose Just One: Roth 401(k) vs. Roth IRA

Most people think they have to choose between a Roth 401(k) and a Roth IRA. You don’t. The real question is how to use them together in a way that supports your goals, your income, and your future tax strategy. I put together a simple breakdown to help you think through it without overcomplicating things.

Staying the Course During Market Shifts

Why discipline matters more than timing when markets feel uncertain

Nevertheless, She Persisted: Women, Wealth, and the Power of Financial Planning

Women continue to face financial barriers, yet research shows they are often thoughtful savers and disciplined investors. In this International Women’s Day blog, Nicole reflects on the lessons many women learned about money, the realities of the wealth gap, and the powerful role financial planning can play in building confidence and long term security.

What Black History Month Teaches Us About Building Wealth

The Money Conversations We Grew Up With and the Wealth We’re Building Now

Getting Your Documents Ready for Tax Season Without the Stress

Tax season tip you will thank yourself for later Before you file your taxes, take one hour to get your documents organized. Being prepared does more than save time. It helps reduce mistakes, speeds up refunds, and creates space for better tax planning conversations. Tax prep looks backward. Good planning looks forward. If you want a simple checklist to get started, this is a great week to do it.

How to Counter the Effects of Inflation

Remember when gas was $0.99 a gallon? Inflation has changed how far our dollars go, but it does not have to derail your financial plan. Learn how investing can help counter rising costs and support your long-term goals.

New Year, New Numbers 2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣6️⃣

Key Financial Numbers for 2026 Each year, inflation adjustments quietly change the rules around taxes, retirement savings, and Social Security. For 2026, higher limits may create new planning opportunities. Highlights: Higher tax bracket thresholds Increased standard deduction 401(k) limit now $24,500 IRA limit now $7,500 Larger catch-up contributions for ages 50+ and 60 to 63 Higher Social Security benefits and wage base Even small annual changes can add up over time. A quick review can help ensure your plan still fits your life today.

Smart Year End Gifting: How to Support Loved Ones, Give Back, and Strengthen Your Financial Plan

Year End Gifting Made Simple Year end is a meaningful time to support loved ones and give back to the causes you care about. Smart gifting can also help strengthen your financial plan. The annual gift tax exclusion for 2025 allows up to 19,000 dollars per recipient, or 38,000 dollars for married couples. Gifts can be made through cash, appreciated investments, 529 plan contributions, or direct payments for tuition and medical bills. Charitable gifts made by December 31 may also offer tax benefits if you itemize. Thoughtful gifting reduces the size of your taxable estate and helps build a legacy that reflects your values. If you want guidance on the best approach for your situation, a CFP professional can help you create a plan with confidence.

3 Reasons Why I love HSAs

A Health Savings Account (HSA) is one of my favorite tools for both medical spending and long-term planning. An HSA lets you set aside pre-tax money specifically for qualified medical expenses. I have used mine for glasses, pharmacy items, and even therapy, which has been so helpful.

Don’t Let Your FSA Funds Go to Waste: A Smart Year-End Reminder Inbox

The end of the year is the perfect time to take a closer look at your benefits. When Tarif and I used our FSA to cover Kennedy’s daycare expenses, it was a game changer. We saved money, simplified our budget, and avoided that “use-it-or-lose-it” panic that can sneak up at the end of the year. If you have a Flexible Spending Account, now’s the time to make sure every dollar is working for you. FSAs can cover everything from dental cleanings and glasses to daycare and after-school care for kids. A little planning goes a long way when it comes to your finances. Read the full article on the 2nd Story Wealth blog for a few quick tips to help you make the most of your FSA before year-end.

The Library: My Favorite Free Place to Learn, Save, and Recharge

We talk a lot about building wealth through saving and investing. But sometimes wealth starts with knowing where to find free resources that help you grow. Your local library offers so much more than books. Think free eBooks, museum passes, language classes, streaming apps like Libby and Hoopla, and even business tools. I wrote about how the library has become my favorite free place to learn, save, and recharge.

September is Life Insurance Awareness Month: Why It Matters for Your Family’s Future

One Big Beautiful Bill: What You Need to Know About the Latest Tax Changes and How They Could Affect You

How Couples Can Merge Their Finances

Merging love and money isn’t always easy, but it can be done with intention. Tarif and I learned a lot when we combined our finances, and now we help other couples do the same. Whether you're newlyweds or 10 years in, having a plan makes all the difference. Here’s how to start merging your finances without losing your mind. Check out our recent article.

Summer, Vows, and “The Talk” No One Wants to Have (But Should)

Why a prenup or postnup isn’t just smart, it’s love in action

The Real Tea on Travel Insurance

Here’s the Real Tea on Travel Insurance

Money on Your Mind: How Financial Planning Supports Mental Health

May Is Mental Health Awareness Month. Let’s Talk About Money.

Riding the Waves: Navigating Market Volatility in Uncertain Times

The instinct to “do something” is real, but this is where discipline matters most!

Winning the Game—On the Field and in Your Finances 🏈

4 Financial Lessons from the Eagles Superbowl Win

Planning for the New Year: Financial Tips and Strategies

As the holidays bring a mix of reflection and anticipation, we find ourselves at the perfect moment to plan for the future. With a new administration stepping in and the concerning buzz about economic changes for 2025, you might be wondering, “How can I prepare for what’s next?” At 2nd Story Wealth, we’re here to simplify the process and guide you through the noise with confidence.

Comprehensive Financial Planning for the Independent Woman

Comprehensive Financial Planning for the Independent Woman

Our goal is to empower our clients to create and preserve generational wealth.

A more personal approach to financial planning

Our Team’s Difference

Services

Financial Planning

Retirement Planning

Investment Planning

We help build, manage, preserve and transition wealth for anyone!

Recent Blogs