From decorating sugar cookies in matching buffalo plaid pajamas, to singing Christmas carols around the neighborhood, the holiday season is upon us. What are some of your favorite holiday traditions?
Here are a few from our Bernicke Team members:
Cathryn, Client Service Associate: “Our family makes a Happy Birthday Jesus cake and a different homemade pizza recipe every year.”
Val, Operations Associate: “Every year at the beginning of December, we get together with another couple and make the ‘12 drinks of Christmas.’ It is a fun day to make, style and taste new beverages.”
Leah, Client Service Associate: “After we enjoy a nice dinner and opening gifts, we sit around the table and discuss our estate plan and our end of life wishes.”
This may seem a little odd or strange, but what if it wasn’t? What if we normalized this type of conversation and made it a priority to speak to our family members about our assets, beneficiary designations and maintaining a family legacy?
The holidays provide the perfect opportunity to start having these conversations (or revisiting these conversations) because it’s one of the few times each year when families are together. What better time to gather around the table to discuss your Estate Plan? It may not be the most fun conversation, but it’s a gift you can give your loved ones.
Remember, this should also be an ongoing conversation. Revisiting and reviewing your estate plan is essential. Make it your new family tradition!
Important Talking Points:
- Who is your financial advisor? (Yes, that’s us!)
- Where are your estate documents located? (They should be in a fireproof location.)
- What roles do individuals in your family play? (Who is your personal representative, power of attorney, etc.?)
- What are your medical and end of life wishes? (Did you know you can plan your funeral ahead of time? You can even write your own obituary.)
Not only should you talk about your estate plan, but you should also make sure your loved ones have completed their estate plan. You are never too young to draft your will; well technically you must be 18 years old to do that (Did you know?).
Schedule A Consultation With Our Team Today
If you are interested in reviewing your estate planning items or having a family meeting at our office, schedule a time to meet with our team: 866-832-1173.
