FAQ — Common Wealth Management Questions | Bespoke Family Advisors

Question 1

What does fee-only mean, and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Fee-only means we are compensated solely by you, not by commissions, referral fees, or product sales. When an advisor earns commissions, there is an inherent conflict between what pays them and what's best for you. Fee-only removes that specific conflict. Our fees are structured to keep our interests aligned with your outcome.

Question 2

What is a fiduciary, and is Bespoke one?

Accepted Answer

A fiduciary is legally required to act in your best interest at all times, not just recommend what's "suitable." That is a meaningfully higher standard than most financial professionals are held to. Yes, Bespoke Family Advisors is a registered investment adviser and operates as a fiduciary in all client relationships.

Question 3

Will I work directly with Allen, or will I be handed off to someone else?

Accepted Answer

You work directly with Allen. There is no team of junior advisors, no rotating associates, and no call center. Your questions go straight to him. That direct relationship is foundational to how Bespoke is built.

Question 4

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

The first step is a 20-minute conversation, no prep required, no forms to fill out, no pitch. Just a candid discussion about where you are, what you're trying to accomplish, and whether Bespoke is the right fit. You can reach Allen directly at [phone number].

Question 5

What's the difference between Heritage and Legacy?

Accepted Answer

Heritage is Bespoke's comprehensive planning relationship, designed for individuals and families approaching or in retirement who want a trusted advisor managing the full picture year-round. Legacy is built for families with more complex needs: significant accumulated wealth, multi-generational planning, estate and trust planning coordination, and direct collaboration with your CPA and estate attorney. Both include direct access to Allen and the same fiduciary standard.

Question 6

What is Bespoke Launch, and who qualifies?

Accepted Answer

Launch is a financial planning service designed for young professionals in their 20s and 30s who are ready to be intentional about their financial future. It is offered exclusively to children and family members of current Heritage and Legacy clients. It is not available to the general public.

Question 7

Do you manage investments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Investment management is included in both Heritage and Legacy relationships. We build and manage portfolios aligned with your financial plan, risk tolerance, and time horizon. Our investment philosophy is grounded in evidence-based principles, not market timing or speculative strategies.

Question 8

Do you work with clients outside of Ohio?

Accepted Answer

Bespoke Family Advisors is registered as an investment adviser with the State of Ohio. If you are located outside Ohio, please reach out directly so we can discuss whether and how we may be able to work together.

Question 9

How are your fees structured?

Accepted Answer

Bespoke operates on a fee-only model. Both Heritage and Legacy include a flat planning fee for your ongoing financial planning services, along with an investment management fee based on the assets we manage on your behalf. There are no hourly charges and no commissions. All fees are transparent, disclosed in writing, and the only compensation we receive.

Question 10

Are there any hidden fees or product commissions?

Accepted Answer

No. We do not accept commissions, referral fees, or compensation of any kind from third parties. If we recommend a product or service, it is because it is right for you, not because it pays us.

Question 11

What is the minimum investment to work with Bespoke?

Accepted Answer

We do not publish a specific minimum on our website. The right fit matters more than a number. If you are curious whether your situation aligns with what Bespoke offers, the best path is a direct conversation with Allen.

Question 12

How often will we meet?

Accepted Answer

Heritage clients meet twice per year: a Year-Ahead Planning Meeting in March and a Year-End Review in October, plus monthly communication throughout the year. Legacy clients meet three times per year, adding a Mid-Year Check-In in July. Beyond scheduled meetings, Allen is directly accessible when you need him.

Question 13

Do you coordinate with my CPA or estate attorney?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and for Legacy clients in particular, that coordination is central to the relationship. Many families have excellent individual professionals who rarely speak to each other. Allen bridges that gap: sitting in the room with your attorney and accountant, speaking the same language, and making sure nothing falls through the cracks between conversations.

Question 14

What if my financial situation changes between meetings?

Accepted Answer

You don't wait for the next scheduled meeting. Direct access to Allen means you can reach out when something changes, whether it's a job transition, an inheritance, a health event, or a market concern, and get a thoughtful response, not a voicemail or a form.

Questions Worth Asking.