Chris took an interest in finance and investments in his youth after getting involved in the family business, income taxes, and investments. He discovered that a great deal of coordination was needed where their stock broker, CPA, and insurance agent did not prove helpful. It was at this point that he decided to pursue a career in financial planning and investments.

During his undergraduate studies, Chris was surprised to find that the vast majority of financial advisors were commission based salespeople - not independent professionals. Nevertheless, he was fortunate to find a place with K.A. Taylor & Associates, Inc., a fiduciary, fee-only advisory firm. It turned out to be an excellent match and inspiration. The firm's principal, Kathryn Taylor, mentored Chris and showed him how a professional advisory practice could be run.

Chris found a career choice where there was room for creativity, specialized analysis, and a personal touch while providing a much-needed service. Upon graduation he decided to obtain the CFP^® mark and register his own independent financial advisory company to serve clients in the San Diego area.  His thorough financial planning education and credentialing enabled him to take a big picture approach to address various facets of clients’ financial lives, from their investments and retirement plans to insurance and income taxes.

About two years later, Chris learned about an opportunity to work with Jim Freeman, a long-time colleague of Kathryn's. After collaborating on several projects together, it was clear that they worked very well together, and that a joint effort made more sense than running two independent businesses.  In the ensuing years, Chris has helped Financial Alternatives, Inc. grow steadily while maintaining the high standards, distinctive service, and unique solutions for which the firm is known.

During this time, he noticed that the number and complexity of investment products offered to individuals had mushroomed, and choosing among the options was becoming increasingly difficult.  Chris opted to enroll in the CFA program, a rigorous multiyear curriculum that requires intensive study to pass three exams covering financial analysis, traditional and alternative investments, economics, portfolio management, and several other topics.  Earning the CFA^® charter has helped him to be more proficient in guiding investment policy and managing client accounts.

Chris now helps to oversee both the financial planning and investment management divisions of the firm.  He has a natural talent for creating effective internal company systems and processes to help ensure that all work is carried out in an organized and timely fashion. Our clients agree that we are lucky to have such an intelligent, talented and dedicated financial advisor as Chris on our team.

Chris is happy to live and work in San Diego. He enjoys a variety of outdoor sports, world travel, as well as simply enjoying local treasures like Balboa Park and our beaches with his wife, daughter, family and friends.