Business Details
10 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Financial Planning Solutions in Burlingame, CA
Ballast Point Financial Planning was founded in 2016 with a mission to empower high-achieving women through personalized financial strategies. Our team of certified professionals brings decades of combined experience in financial planning, tax optimization, and investment management. We specialize in addressing the unique challenges faced by women who balance career, family, and long-term financial goals. Our fee-only model ensures unbiased advice tailored to each client's complex needs, including equity compensation and retirement planning. We integrate tax strategies into every aspect of financial planning, offering year-round guidance to maximize wealth growth.With a focus on transparency and partnership, we provide comprehensive services that evolve alongside our clients' lives. Our team includes CFPs, CPAs, and industry leaders committed to advancing financial literacy. We serve clients nationally, combining virtual accessibility with local expertise in California and Florida. Our holistic approach simplifies financial complexity, allowing clients to focus on their personal and professional aspirations. Recognized as Investopedia Top 100 Advisors in 2023, we remain dedicated to fostering financial confidence through education and actionable strategies.
Services
Financial Planning
Tax Strategy
Investment Management
Retirement Planning
Equity Compensation
Estate Planning
Risk Management
Education Funding
Charitable Giving
Portfolio Design
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- We are fee-only fiduciaries with no product commissions ensuring unbiased advice
- Our team includes CFPs, CPAs, and specialists in equity compensation planning
- We integrate tax strategy into all financial planning decisions year-round
- Tailored services for women earning over $400k/year with $2M+ net worth
- We offer flexible pricing models including comprehensive and project-based planning
Services
Comprehensive Financial Planning
We create personalized financial roadmaps covering goal setting, cash flow management, retirement planning, and estate strategy. Our approach integrates tax considerations and evolves with your changing needs. Clients receive ongoing support to adapt plans as life circumstances change.
Tax Strategy & Preparation
Our CPA-led tax services combine year-round strategy with preparation, focusing on tax-loss harvesting and equity compensation optimization. We coordinate tax planning with overall financial strategies to minimize liabilities while supporting long-term wealth growth for high-income clients.
Investment Management
We design customized investment portfolios aligned with your risk tolerance and values. Our evidence-based approach includes ongoing monitoring, tax-efficient strategies, and sustainable investment options. Portfolios are integrated with broader financial planning to support specific life goals and wealth preservation.
Equity Compensation Planning
Specialized guidance for professionals with equity compensation addresses tax implications, diversification strategies, and integration with overall financial goals. We help clients navigate complex equity structures while minimizing risks and maximizing long-term value from company stock holdings.
Retirement Planning
Our retirement planning focuses on creating sustainable income streams while maintaining lifestyle flexibility. We analyze multiple scenarios to ensure financial security through market cycles, incorporating tax-efficient withdrawal strategies and legacy planning components tailored to high-net-worth clients.
People
Shawn Tydlaska
Founder & CEO
CFP and former Navy officer with 15+ years in financial planning. Developed BLX Internship Program to diversify the industry. Seven-time Boston Marathon finisher and family man with passion for personal finance education.
JoAnn Huber
Senior Tax Manager
CPA/PFS with expertise in tax planning for high-net-worth individuals. Former Arthur Andersen auditor who transitioned to financial planning after raising five children. Combines tax depth with comprehensive financial strategy for client benefit.
Drew Hanessian
Lead Financial Planner
Navy veteran and former submarine officer with MBA from UNC Kenan-Flagler. Specializes in working with military families and professionals with complex financial situations. Holds advanced wealth management credentials from Columbia University.
Vidalia Cornwall
Lead Financial Planner
CFP and ChFC with expertise in retirement income planning. Former Northwestern Mutual associate who helps clients achieve financial confidence through organized, values-aligned strategies. Active in professional development and community financial education.
Kimberly Keesler Herrera
Financial Planning Resident
Former tech industry strategist with Google/Symantec experience. Transitioned to financial planning after personal interest in FIRE movement. Focuses on helping clients navigate career transitions and early retirement planning strategies.
Questions
What services do you offer for women with complex financial situations?
We provide comprehensive financial planning, tax strategy, and investment management tailored to high-earning women, including equity compensation optimization and retirement planning.
How are your financial planning fees structured?
We offer transparent pricing: comprehensive planning starts at $7,200/year, project-based work at $350/hr, and a Wealth Builder package for emerging affluent clients.
Do you work with clients outside California?
Yes, we serve clients nationwide through virtual meetings, with local expertise in California and Florida.
What makes Ballast Point different from other financial advisors?
We specialize in serving high-achieving women, combine tax strategy with financial planning, and maintain a fee-only fiduciary model with no product commissions.
How can I start working with your firm?
Schedule a complimentary initial consultation through our website to discuss your financial goals and determine the best service approach for your needs.
