Tom Sharp is a Financial Advisor with The Ridley Group of Wells Fargo Advisors. He has over 40 years of combined experience in retail operations, budgeting, luxury store management, and merchandising. Before joining Wells Fargo Advisors in early 2016, Tom was Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis for Saks Fifth Avenue, a company he had been with since 1992, holding a variety of positions.

Melissa Watson is a Financial Advisor/Associate Vice President of Investments with Wells Fargo Advisors. She has enjoyed the privilege of serving two communities, starting her career in Decatur, Illinois, and now in Bowling Green. She’s been honored to lead a variety of nonprofits including the YMCA, Decatur Public Schools, and United Way and Community foundations in both cities, while also providing clients expertise and guidance to reach their goals.

Melissa says that while Bowling Green is made up of a diverse population, there is a common purpose to provide a high quality of life for all residents. “The level of investment in all aspects of the Bowling Green community gives me pride to be a resident here and spurs me to advocate, encourage, and support the good works being done for Bowling Green,” she says Tom says the team at The Ridley Group has been instrumental in his professional development to assist others with retirement planning, which as Melissa points out can mean so much more than just focusing on managing wealth. “Client discussions often become finding purpose during retirement or discovering meaning during the working years. The financial aspects of meeting goals have an art and a science, I help clients find the balance between both,” she says.

Tom and Melissa both believe that saving early is important. “The time slips away very quickly, and the power of time regarding savings is extremely important,” says Tom. Melissa adds, “Stick to a practical budget, always be grateful, and find what you love.”