The Story Behind MADE
Fee-only, fiduciary financial planning, built around your goals, your family, and the life you want to design.
What Inspired “MADE”?
MADE Financial Design is rooted in my family—Matthew, Adeline (my daughter), Deborah (my wife), and Ezra (my son). Their love and support made this firm possible, with their initials woven into its very name. It also embodies our work with clients, in supporting their goals around Money, Adventure, Dreams, and Education.
As a family, we treasure travel, savoring new foods, and embracing new experiences. Adventure and dreams are pivotal in shaping our own journey, and they inspire how we approach financial planning. At MADE, we believe that thoughtful financial design is about more than numbers—it’s about crafting a life that reflects what matters most to you.
We focus on designing financial plans that are as unique as each individual we serve, guiding clients to pursue their dreams with clarity and purpose. Through our personalized approach and commitment to education, we help clients build the confidence they need to navigate their financial journey and create a life filled with meaning, adventure, and the pursuit of their own dreams.
Matthew Ferrell, CFP® · FounderDr. Matthew Ferrell, CFP®
As a former educator, I bring a unique blend of expertise to MADE Financial Design, merging my background in teaching with a deep passion for financial planning. Before founding MADE, I spent years as a Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at St. Cloud State University, leading choirs on international tours, performing at prestigious conferences, and fostering meaningful connections with students. This dedication to inspiring growth and building relationships now guides my work as a financial planner.
My journey into financial planning began with a deep dive into personal finance, inspired by the FIRE (Financial Independence/Retire Early) movement. It was further solidified during a pivotal time in my life, when my wife received an inheritance after the loss of both of her parents. Grappling with these financial complexities during the height of the pandemic taught me the importance of careful planning and clarity in decision-making. In my first financial planning role, I worked with clients navigating intricate financial situations, further deepening my knowledge in complex planning needs. Building on that experience, I eventually founded MADE Financial Design to bring my vision for personalized, education-focused financial planning to life.
As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, I am dedicated to continuous learning and actively contribute as a member of the Financial Planning Association (FPA). At MADE Financial Design, I merge my passion for education with purposeful financial planning, empowering clients to navigate life’s complexities and create the futures they envision.
Our Professional Affiliations & Credentials
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