Meet Chris Villaire | Financial Advisor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris Villaire and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chris, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Finances impact everyone, no matter where they come from, what they do for work, where they live, etc. The issue is financial literacy is at an all-time low, especially among the younger generation. This is where Villaire Financial comes in – the thought process behind starting my business was helping those who need it most. The decisions people make with their finances in their 20s and 30s will determine the life they get to live in the future. Unfortunately, most financial advisors do not prioritize the small investor who is early on in their career and does not have that much money. We want to serve those who need it most. We want to meet people where they are at, walk with them, and educate them along the way.

Our services have no account minimums or income requirements. We provide investment management, budget optimization, and tax planning services to those who need it most. Through a relationship-focused approach, we partner with clients to create a tailored financial plan that best suits their goals. We want to grow with our clients along their life-long financial journey.

We are truly creating something here that is rewriting the narrative surrounding finance. We are seeking to educate and inspire the next generation of investors.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m a 20-year-old independent financial advisor based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and I specialize in working with young professionals. I’ve built my practice to be approachable, affordable, and relatable for younger clients who may not have had access to personalized financial advice before.

What sets me apart is my focus on making financial advice accessible to everyone. I specialize in working with the people that many large financial institutions would not work with due to their income or asset balance requirements. It is such a joy to meet people where they are at, get them on a financial plan, and guide them along the way.

The journey to where I am today hasn’t been easy, especially as a young advisor. It can be challenging to establish credibility, but I’ve leaned into my age as an asset, speaking directly to a demographic that’s often overlooked. Additionally, pursuing my Master’s Degree and the CFP® certification to become the best advisor I can be and build credibility.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of patience and perseverance. Building a business takes time, and the early stages are full of moments where you doubt yourself. Overcoming these challenges one day at a time has taught me that progress is often slow and incremental, but it compounds over time—just like investing. I love the comparison here and it grounds me to stay calm and continue to the small things right one day at a time.

My mission is to use my God-given gifts and passions to help others with their finances and serve as a trusted lifelong partner.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I absolutely love living in downtown Grand Rapids. It is so incredible to have such a wide array of options to do with people. You can experience the city life, beach, country, and suburbs, all within an hour’s drive of each other. This offers so much flexibility and caters to so many interests.

I love showing people around my favorite coffee shops – Madcap, Roots Brew Shop, and more.

There are so many great food options – Nonla Burger, Condados, Hopcat, and my personal favorite Butcher’s Union.

I love showing people my normal experiences like Bridge Street Market, working downtown, where I run in the evenings, etc.

When looking to go somewhere outside the city, I love the beaches in Grand Haven and Holland. My personal favorite getaway spot is hiking Rosy Mound.

I am very proud to call Grand Rapids my home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My relationship with Jesus is my lifeline. He is my rock and my comfort. He is the one I run to when things are going well and in my moments of fear, doubt, and anxiety – all feelings that come far too often as an entrepreneur. It is by his grace I am on this earth and that I get to love and serve my clients.

My family has loved me through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. I am so thankful for their constant support, belief in me, and care for me. My parents are incredible role models and have been huge blessings. Also, my Uncle Jason is a Financial Advisor with his own practice and he has been an incredible mentor and friend in my life. My friends have always supported me, encouraged me, and truly have shown their confidence in me.

While at Grand Valley, I became deeply involved in Campus Ministry and Seidman Investment Portfolio Organization (IPO) serving in leadership capacities in both organizations. Both of these groups had a formative impact on who I am both personally and professionally. I found deep friendships, true community, and mentorship in both of these organizations.

Website: https://www.villairefinancial.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris.villaire/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-villaire/