The Secrets to Building a Financial Plan That Works

Financial planning isn’t about limiting your life — it’s about creating the freedom to live it on your terms. In this empowering and interactive session, we’ll explore the core building blocks of a strong financial plan, how to align your assets with your values and goals, and why timing and intentionality are key. You’ll walk away with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose behind every financial decision.

Presented by:

Julia Strayer, CPWA®, CIMA®, CRPC®, Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor

Prior to joining Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2000, Julia was a vice president and private banker for BankBoston’s Private Bank for 7 years, responsible for asset management and trust services. Previously, Julia worked in marketing for 9 years with Merrill. Julia has a BA from Ohio State University and an MBA from New York University’s Stern School of Business. Julia has appeared on the CNBC show “Power Lunch,” CBS “This Morning,” WGCH’s “Women in Business,” in addition to featured articles in USA Today.

Liz Maccarone, CRPC®, SE-AWMA^™, Vice President, Senior Financial Advisor 

Liz joined Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in 2012. Liz works closely with high-net-worth individuals and their families to create personalized and comprehensive strategies that support their goals, including investment management, retirement planning, liability management, and multigenerational planning. Liz values the importance of establishing and cultivating relationships with families including the next generation.

Liz graduated from Fairfield University with a dual bachelor’s degree in Finance and Marketing. She began her career working at a boutique investment firm as a Business Development Associate, specializing in commodities and futures.