Clara Charlebois Melendy

Many mid‑career professionals work hard for their equity compensation and global careers, but have little time to untangle the tax and financial complexity that comes with them. When cross‑border issues enter the picture, the stakes and confusion only grow, and the cost of getting it wrong can be significant. I founded Soaring Wealth LLC to help equity‑compensated professionals, US expats in Europe, and investors with complex holdings make clear, confident decisions about their wealth. My clients are often juggling RSUs, stock options, ESPPs, private equity, and multi‑country tax rules — on top of demanding careers and family responsibilities. As your personal CFO, I provide a 360‑degree view of your finances so every choice supports your long‑term goals. My work integrates financial planning, tax planning and preparation, and investment management into one coordinated service. Rather than juggling multiple advisors, you partner with one firm that understands your equity compensation, cross‑border tax obligations, and family priorities — and proactively helps you navigate them. Our work together often includes modeling equity exercise and sale strategies, planning for international moves, coordinating US and foreign tax positions, aligning portfolios with cash‑flow needs, and addressing estate and legacy questions across borders. I highlight trade‑offs and potential unintended consequences in plain language, so you can make informed decisions without needing to become the expert yourself. Clients typically come to me feeling pressed for time and worried about missing something important. My goal is to simplify complexity, reduce decision fatigue, and help you protect and grow your after‑tax wealth — giving you more mental space for your career, family, and the life you are building across countries.

Lawrence Barber is a Wealth Management Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management. He has been with the firm since 1997 and focuses on providing services tailored to endowments, foundations, non-profits, LGBT wealth planning, managing new wealth, personal retirement planning, philanthropic planning, portfolio management, socially responsible and values-based investing, special needs planning, women and wealth, as well as sports and entertainment clients. Lawrence holds the Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designation and is a Personal Investment Advisor (PIA). He earned his high school diploma from Vermont Academy and attended the University of Vermont, though no degree was conferred. Throughout his career, he has participated in the startup and growth of businesses in alternative energy, outdoor sports equipment, and natural foods. Active in his community, Lawrence has served on the boards of Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility and currently the Catamount Trail Association. He is involved with the Union of Concerned Scientists and the Vermont Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association. Lawrence resides in Charlotte, Vermont, and pursues interests including backcountry skiing, hiking, biking, sailing, paragliding, rock climbing, and traveling.