For Devin J. Garofalo, AIF®, financial planning isn’t just a service—it’s a relationship. One built on trust, nurtured through transparency, and sustained by integrity.
As the CEO of Colonial River Wealth Management, Devin has advised individuals and families for over 18 years across 45 states. While his technical expertise and accolades—such as ranking in the top 1% of LPL Financial advisors—are impressive, it’s his unwavering belief in the power of trust that sets him apart.
A Relationship, Not a Transaction
“Financial planning should never feel transactional,” Devin explains. “When someone trusts you with their life savings, retirement goals, or children’s education fund, that’s a sacred responsibility.”
In Devin’s experience, successful financial outcomes begin with a genuine connection. That means taking the time to understand each client’s values, fears, and aspirations—not just their net worth. It’s a philosophy that defines his client-first approach and fuels the long-standing relationships he maintains with households nationwide.
This mindset has helped him turn one-time consultations into lifelong partnerships, where financial decisions are made with collaboration, not pressure.
Transparency as a Practice, Not a Promise
Trust, in Devin’s view, must be earned—and continually reinforced. That’s why transparency is at the heart of every interaction at Colonial River Wealth Management. Clients are fully informed of their options, fees, and potential risks before making decisions.
“We explain everything. No hidden agendas. No fine print,” Devin says. “Clarity builds confidence—and confidence builds trust.”
Whether discussing market volatility or long-term growth strategies, Devin ensures clients understand not only the “what” but the “why” behind every recommendation.
A Fiduciary First, Always
Devin’s trust-centred philosophy is more than a personal belief—it’s a professional standard. As an Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®), he is legally and ethically bound to act in his clients’ best interests at all times. Unlike some advisors who operate under less stringent standards, Devin leads with full fiduciary responsibility.
This commitment reinforces his firm’s mission: to provide advice free of conflicts, built on diligence, and delivered with care.
Trust Through Education
One of the most overlooked aspects of financial trust is education. Devin believes clients should feel empowered, not dependent. That’s why he invests time in teaching clients how their investments work, what financial terms mean, and how economic shifts may impact them.
By simplifying complex financial topics, Devin helps remove fear and confusion from the process. “An informed client is a confident client,” he often says. “And confidence leads to stronger financial outcomes.”
Community Matters, Too
Trust isn’t just a business strategy for Devin—it’s a way of life. As an Eagle Scout, church leader, and youth sports coach, he extends the same values of honesty, loyalty, and service into his community.
These roles reinforce his commitment to doing what’s right, even when no one is watching. His clients know that the man they trust with their finances is the same one who shows up to coach Little League or volunteer at local outreach events.
Reputation Earned, Not Claimed
In 2023, Devin’s firm was recognised by SmartAsset as the top advisory practice in Midlothian, Virginia. But for Devin, awards aren’t the goal—impact is. The real reward is the phone call from a retiree who feels secure, the young family buying their first home, or the business owner planning a smooth transition.
These are the moments when trust becomes tangible. And they’re why Devin continues to prioritise human connection over hype.
Final Thoughts
To Devin J. Garofalo, trust isn’t a tagline—it’s the foundation of everything he does. In a financial world crowded with noise, he stands out as a voice of calm, clarity, and commitment. Whether you’re just beginning your financial journey or planning your legacy, Devin proves that when trust leads, success follows.
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