// FAQ Answers To What We Get Asked Most
// Common Questions Helping you FEel More Informed.
Choosing a financial advisor is an important decision. These frequently asked questions are designed to provide helpful information about our firm, our process, and how we work with clients.
//01 Working
Together
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL ENGAGEMENT WITH WAKEFIELD VENTURE GROUP LOOK LIKE?
Every client relationship begins with a discovery conversation — we take time to understand your financial picture, your goals, and what's keeping you up at night. From there, we build a personalized plan and meet regularly to review progress, adjust as life changes, and make sure your strategy stays aligned with what matters most to you. Most clients describe working with us as having a trusted partner in their corner, not just an advisor they hear from once a year.
HOW ARE YOUR SERVICES STRUCTURED, AND WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT TO PAY?
We are a fee-only firm, which means we are compensated solely by you — never through commissions or product sales. This keeps our interests fully aligned with yours. Our fees are transparent and agreed upon upfront, so there are no surprises. Depending on your needs, we offer financial planning engagements and ongoing advisory relationships, and we'll walk you through exactly what each option costs during your initial consultation.
DO YOU HAVE A MINIMUM ACCOUNT SIZE TO WORK WITH A CLIENT?
We work with clients at a range of stages and asset levels. Rather than setting a hard minimum, we focus on whether we can genuinely add value to your situation. If you're not sure whether we're the right fit, the best first step is a no-obligation conversation — we'll be straightforward with you about whether we think we can help.
//02 Our Planning Approach
WHAT IS YOUR INVESTMENT PHILOSOPHY, AND HOW DO YOU BUILD A PORTFOLIO?
We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all portfolio. Our investment philosophy starts with you — your goals, your timeline, your tolerance for risk, and what you need your money to do. From there, we build a portfolio designed around those specifics, rather than fitting you into a pre-packaged model. We revisit and adjust over time as your life and priorities evolve, because a good portfolio isn't something you set once and forget.
WHO HOLDS MY ACCOUNTS, AND HOW ARE MY ASSETS PROTECTED?
Your assets are held by an independent third-party custodian — not by Wakefield Venture Group. This is an important distinction: we manage your investments, but we never take custody of your money. The custodian holds your accounts, provides you with statements, and is subject to regulatory oversight. This structure is a core safeguard for clients and is standard practice among fee-only advisory firms.
DO YOU COORDINATE WITH MY CPA, ATTORNEY, AND OTHER ADVISORS?
While we don't typically manage those relationships directly, we are always willing to share information and work alongside your other professionals when it serves your interests. We believe good financial advice doesn't happen in a vacuum, and we'll flag situations where coordination with your CPA or attorney would benefit you — the rest is up to you to facilitate.
//03 Getting
Started
WHAT HAPPENS ON AN INTRODUCTORY CALL, AND IS THERE ANY COST?
The introductory call is a no-pressure conversation — no cost, no commitment. We'll spend about 30 minutes getting to know each other. You'll share a bit about your situation and what's on your mind financially, and we'll walk you through how we work and whether we think we can help. If it's a good fit, we'll talk about next steps. If it's not, we'll tell you that too.
HOW OFTEN WILL WE MEET ONCE I BECOME A CLIENT?
Most clients meet with us at least twice a year for formal reviews, though we're available more frequently as life events come up — a job change, an inheritance, a major purchase, or anything else that affects your financial picture. You'll never feel like you have to wait for your next scheduled meeting to get answers.
CAN YOU SERVE CLIENTS OUTSIDE OF COOKEVILLE, TENNESSEE?
Yes. While we are based in Cookeville, we work with clients across the country. Most of our ongoing client communication happens virtually, which makes geography a non-issue. If you prefer to meet in person and you're local, we're happy to do that too.
// Still Have Questions? DIDN'T SEE WHAT YOU WERE LOOKING FOR?
We're happy to answer your questions and discuss how our services may align with your financial goals.