The Planning Process

See below for a clear path from questions to confident decisions.

Financial planning works best when the process is organized, collaborative, and easy to understand.

At Giessel Wealth Advisors, the goal is to make each step clear - from the first conversation through implementation and ongoing guidance. The process is designed to help you understand where you are, where you want to go, and what actions may help move you forward.

STEP 1.

A Quick Introduction

Every relationship begins with a conversation.

We’ll start with a complimentary, no-obligation conversation where we talk about your goals, concerns, priorities, and current financial situation. It is an opportunity for us to understand what matters most to you and for you to learn more about Giessel Wealth Advisors.

Let’s see if we could be a great fit.

STEP 2.

Discover

Let’s start getting into the details.

We’ll begin gathering your financial information and, where appropriate, connect your accounts to your secure client portal so we can bring the pieces of your financial life together in one place. We’ll send you an organized list of what we need ahead of time to make the process as straightforward and painless as possible.

Topics may include:


  • Retirement goals and timing

  • Current income, savings, and investments

  • Spending priorities

  • Family considerations

  • Major upcoming decisions

  • Financial concerns or uncertainties

An illustration of a large valuable looking golden egg resting in a nest representing potential for value.
STEP 3.

Plan

Now that we understand your situation and priorities, we’ll organize and evaluate the relevant pieces of your financial picture.

This is where we step back and look at the full picture—where you are today, where you want to go, and what may need to change to get there.

Depending on your needs, planning may include:

  • Retirement readiness

  • Cash flow and spending

  • Investment strategy

  • Social Security considerations

  • Tax-aware planning

  • Insurance and risk management

  • Major financial decisions

  • Long-term goals

The objective is to develop practical recommendations that are coordinated, understandable, and aligned with your priorities.

A small golden gosling emerging from an eggshell representing the beginning of financial guidance.
STEP 4.

Implement

A financial plan only becomes useful when it leads to action.

Once recommendations have been discussed and agreed upon, Giessel Wealth Advisors helps coordinate the next steps in a thoughtful and organized manner.

Implementation may include:

  • Opening or transferring investment accounts

  • Establishing an appropriate portfolio allocation

  • Prioritizing planning recommendations

  • Coordinating with your tax, legal, or insurance professionals when appropriate

  • Creating a timeline for important action items

Mother goose guiding two goslings, representing steady financial guidance.
STEP 5.

Guide

Financial planning is an ongoing process.

Life changes. Markets change. Priorities evolve. Your financial plan and investment strategy should be reviewed as those changes occur.

Ongoing guidance may include:

  • Regular planning reviews

  • Portfolio monitoring

  • Adjustments following major life changes

  • Updates to retirement or spending assumptions

  • Support during periods of market uncertainty

  • Continued coordination of financial decisions

The goal is to help you remain organized, informed, and aligned with your long-term objectives over time.

A stylized logo of a flying goose with four goslings following behind, set against a clear sky with a semi-circular gold border and gold clouds, representing financial guidance leading to financial progress and maturity.

Start With a Conversation

Whether you are preparing for retirement, organizing your financial life, or seeking ongoing guidance, the first step is understanding your goals, priorities, and concerns.