Trusted Partners in Your Life's Journey
committed to helping you achieve your unique goals.
Daren Blonski, CFP®, AIF®
Daren Blonski, CFP® is the Co-founder and Managing Partner of Sonoma Wealth Advisors. He is a learner, educator, entrepreneur, and life coach. With a Master of Arts in Psychology from Sonoma State University, he is deeply connected to helping clients take their lives to the next level. His clients see him as an educator and coach, operating in the realm of financial planning.
Working with clients across the life-stage spectrum, he focuses particularly on assisting entrepreneurs looking to soak up life and maximize their fulfillment. He is an advocate of Dave Ramsey’s approach to organizing and prioritizing one’s finances.
A life-long learner. Daren is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, an Accredited Investment Fiduciary™, a Certified Retirement Planner Specialist™, a Certified Retirement Planning Counselor™, an Accredited Asset Management Specialist™, a Smartvestor Pro™ with Dave Ramsey, a Certified Digital Asset Advisor™, and has received his certificate in Blockchain and Digital AssetsSM from the Digital Assets Council of Financial Professionals. He is deeply committed to the pursuit of lifelong learning.
Multi-dimensional in his interests, he facilitates leadership training with non-profits, particularly those in Sonoma Valley. He has worked extensively internationally with the curriculum based on The Leadership Challenge framework. As an avid reader, he is always exploring new ideas and themes to incorporate into his life.
As a lifelong resident of Sonoma County, if there is a race to be run, a weight to be lifted, a mountain to be climbed, Daren is all in. He loves the outdoors. He spends his spare time pursuing his physical and mental agility through various outdoor and physical health-related activities. With all this said, Daren’s greatest joys are his three children: Brooklyn, Bryton, and Brady.
Interested in Working with Daren?
Chris Sipes,
CFP®, AIF®
Chris brings over 13 years of experience in the financial industry to Sonoma Wealth Advisors. As a co-founder of Sonoma Wealth Advisors he operates as the Chief Compliance and Investment Officer. Chris is passionate about investing and is always exploring proven strategies and techniques to assist clients in reaching their financial goals
Chris previously worked for a large national bank serving business owners and high net worth individuals. During that time, he developed a reputation as a trusted partner for his many long-term clients. He began his career in 2006 with a large, family-owned commercial insurance agency, working with business owners to identify their risks and secure customized coverage from a wide range of insurance companies.
Chris relocated from Ohio to California in 2008 to seek sun and adventure in the West. As an avid reader, Chris enjoys the stories and the personalities behind the numbers. He understands that the best plan won’t work if it’s not a plan that will work for you, and that the decisions you’re facing can be approached in a thoughtful, strategic way. Chris believes the best advice is the advice you’ll implement and see through life’s inevitable ups and downs.
Chris and his wife, Sandra, have two daughters and a son and live in Sonoma. He’s a graduate of The Ohio State University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-Finance. In his free time, he enjoys mountain biking, skiing, and hiking with his family.
Interested in Working with Chris?
Russell Van Sistine, CFP®
As a child, I remember talking to a stranger about her life as a physician. She beamed as she spoke of her patients, experiences and making a difference; the passion with which she spoke drove straight into me. I knew I wanted to live a life of service to others and I wanted to be a doctor. After high school, I was privileged to serve a two-year mission. I directly aided many different communities helping people move, cleaning houses for those that could not, praying with those who were sick; witnessing the joy as well as the suffering of others. This strengthened my desire to help.
At my first college mixer, I met the love of my life, Jenny. A year and a half later, we were married. Shortly thereafter, I got into my first college biology course where I realized quickly that it was not for me and I couldn't fathom the thought of studying it for the rest of my life. Then Jenny and I made the very sensible decision to go on a three-week tour of Europe with the business students. On that trip, I became close to one of the economics professors and through our conversations, I discovered that finance and economics are amazing and exciting, and I could be of service to others doing something I love. I now have a bachelor's degree in financial economics.
My wife, Jenny, and I now have three children, Lexi (6), Oakley (4), and Tessa (1). The five of us love to explore the world through travel and books. Jenny and I always find a way to dance together either in the kitchen or at the restaurants we visit. Lexi and Oakley are growing in skill in their Taekwondo classes.
Being a financial advisor is having the opportunity to continue studying the ever-changing field of economics and finance and utilize my passion for service. Guiding my clients with enthusiasm and passion. Those in the medical profession are trained to do something that I dreamed of doing – they help people heal. As your financial advisor, I will help you remove and eliminate the emotional burden that can come with family finances, freeing you to focus on the things you are passionate about.
At your service,
Russell Van Sistine, CFP®
Ben Sedillo, AAMS®, AIF®
Raised by his mom, Ben learned at an early age the importance of building a solid financial foundation. Growing up in the Central Valley of California, much of Ben’s childhood was spent working to contribute to the household finances. In fact, a core memory for Ben is of him punching a clock for his grandparents when he was in elementary school to earn money to buy school clothes. This kind of responsibility taught him about the value of working hard, setting goals, and supporting loved ones.
His unique background makes Ben much more empathetic to the challenges his clients face when building, maintaining, and transferring wealth. That’s why he is so passionate about understanding what’s important to his clients. Ben feels that through thoughtful and specific planning he can help his clients avoid the struggles that he had endured while growing up. That way, not only can they feel prepared for different life events, they can be confident about achieving their financial dreams.
As a young man, Ben followed in his brother’s footsteps to serve the country in the United States Coast Guard. After finishing his time in the service, Ben started what became a very successful career in banking. The various positions that Ben held in banking earned him a wealth of experience, which culminated in working as a Financial Advisor, licensed and practicing since 2007. Ben is an Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS®) and an Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®).
Ben is a talented songwriter, a lucky husband to his wife, Mia, and proud father to Grace (13), Ava (8), and Donovan (3). He cherishes his family and creating moments with them. Whether it’s traveling, camping, or enjoying Sonoma County where he has lived since 2009, Ben sees his family as the center of his universe.
Kevin Morrow
Kevin has worked in the financial services industry since 1987. He spent his first decade in the insurance business, then became a bank-based Financial Advisor in Sonoma and Napa Counties. After a long career in with his previous institution, Kevin has decided to join Sonoma Wealth Advisors to continue to grow his business with Todd Gomes, Ben Sedillo and the Sonoma Wealth Advisors team.
Kevin grew up on a large dairy farm in River Falls Wisconsin. He attended the University of Wisconsin River Falls where he studied Agricultural Economics. After moving to Sonoma County in the early 1980s, Kevin became very interested in the wine industry. While pursuing his passion as a winemaker, he met Wendy, now his wife of 31 years. He has two stepchildren, Kopavi and Rachel, and a son, Dillon.
Kevin is the winemaker and owner of Tara Bella Winery in the Russian River Valley, a producer of Gold Medal winning Cabernets. When he's not hard at work, Kevin spends his time with family and friends at their winery. He loves all outdoor activities: softball, golf, hiking, camping and traveling the world with Wendy. He enjoys reading about people overcoming adversities and success stories. Being from Wisconsin, he describes himself as a huge fan of all Wisconsin sports teams and is a proud owner/shareholder of the Green Bay Packers.
Todd Gomes, AIF®
With a financial advisory practice rooted in tried-and-true money management principles, Todd approaches wealth management from a customized planning perspective.
Skilled at explaining sophisticated wealth strategies and market dynamics in a way that’s easily understandable, Todd works with his clients to outline specific goals, and customizes each portfolio from the ground up, so that his clients can realize specific life goals within specific periods of time.
With 17 years of industry experience, Todd has worked extensively in financial services; he began his career with Citibank, went on to Wachovia—where he met his wife Jessie—and later transitioned to Wells Fargo where he remained for several years before joining the team at Sonoma Wealth Advisors.
Todd Gomes is a Sonoma County native. He lives in Santa Rosa with his wife, Jessie, and their two children, Keeley, age 10, and Kaleho, age 5.
Educationally, Todd has his Bachelor of Arts from Cal State East Bay, and he’s spent years studying modern portfolio theory and asset allocation strategies in a professional capacity. In his spare time, Todd enjoys hiking, playing guitar well, and playing golf poorly.
Zach Paul, CFP®
I live in Napa, CA and grew up in Boulder, CO. I am an avid soccer player and outdoor sports enthusiast. A graduate from the University of Vermont, I was a D1 soccer player and academic scholar. Now I am a Certified Financial Planner™ and hold the Accredited Asset Management Specialist and Certified Retirement Planning Counselor designations. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my wife, Melissa, and our two dogs.
As an athlete, I experienced a career-ending leg injury and wanted to help prevent other athletes from having a similar experience as a doctor. As I pursued this dream and gained acceptance to medical school, I learned about the financial stress of education debt, and found I could make just as much of an impact helping others as a "financial doctor". Thus, I changed directions and pursued a career in finance.
I am passionate about helping clients confidently navigate the many obstacles that life can present. By using a team approach, we offer our clients a more comprehensive experience so that they have personalized attention and meaningful guidance around the various events in life. Our aim is to enrich the lives of our clients and their families, and better our community.
Jackie Egidio, MBA
A California native, Jackie grew up on the Central Coast with a passion for the outdoors, ocean waves, and viticulture. She brings over 20 years of experience in strategy management, finance and accounting. Jackie has lived in Sonoma since 2002, where her career focused on small family owned wineries and vineyards. Jackie started working with Sonoma Wealth Advisors in October of 2019 when the firm originated and has enjoyed building and supporting a dynamic team. She received her MBA in 2009 from John F. Kennedy University in Concord, CA. When Jackie is not in the office, she enjoys hiking, kayaking, and exploring sandy beaches with her husband Matt, and son, Ben.
Clay Dunkle, CFP®, AIF®
Clay was born and raised in Sonoma about a mile from our home office. Having grown up here playing baseball, basketball, and soccer, he has gotten to know many of the local families that make our town so special. Now, as a financial advisor and a youth baseball coach, he is strengthening those relationships and building many new ones.
Clay’s interest in investing began in his early teens when his grandmother gave him a book of Warren Buffet quotes. He became enamored with the investing legend’s life story and investing style. This was the beginning of his endless love of education on all things investing.
Clay holds his Series 65 securities license with Sonoma Wealth Advisors, and serves in the capacity of an investment advisor representative. He is also an Accredited Investment FiduciaryTM (AIF®). With a passion for continuing education, Clay strives to further develop his skillset in the industry and recently became a Certified Financial PlannerTM (CFP®).
When he’s not hard at work, Clay is somewhere outside with his friends and family, either exercising, playing golf, camping, adventuring the globe, or at a baseball tournament.
Terri Updegraff
Terri Updegraff is a licensed investment advisor representative dedicated to helping individuals and couples thrive financially. Her vision is a world where she can assist her clients in finding financial peace throughout various phases of their lives. She is committed to contributing to this vision by working with people, especially women, to improve their financial well-being.
Terri works with a team of savvy investment advisors who aspire to have clients’ best interest in mind. Her holistic approach starts with discovering what is most meaningful to her clients and creating a plan to get there. Whether it’s planning for retirement, saving for college, or fulfilling a personal dream, Terri’s goal is to help foster those dreams into becoming a reality.
Prior to finding her passion for helping others with their finances, Terri spent 12 years in leadership development. She also founded and ran a small business in Sonoma. Terri received her B.S. in Business Administration and Masters in Organizational Development. She is a trained coach in the co-active coaching method through the Co-Active Training Institute and has completed the Ramsey Financial Coach Master Training.
On the weekends, Terri is likely hiking in the hills, working on a home improvement project, or trying out a new recipe to be enjoyed with family and friends.
Shelby Wirick
Shelby has enjoyed a dynamic career in the realm of corporate executive management, encompassing more than a decade of service with internationally renowned Fortune 500 companies. Over the course of her career, Shelby has developed a distinct affinity for leadership and talent development, ensuring that both peers and subordinates are able to maximize their full professional potential. Through that experience, Shelby honed her lifelong passion for helping people realize their personal ambitions, and brings to SWA a wealth of knowledge that enables her to walk beside clients in achieving their business, financial, and retirement goals.
Shelby was born and raised in San Diego, but has long made Sonoma her permanent home. Shelby attended Sonoma State University where she earned a B.S. in Business Administration, a B.A. in Spanish Language Studies, and holds numerous professional certifications and accreditations. Shelby is active in the Sonoma community - residing only three short blocks from our home office - and is a member of a centennial Sonoma County ranching family.
When Shelby is not working, she is volunteering at her church, enjoying the diverse offerings of Sonoma living, traveling, and enjoying time with her husband, two children, and two black labs at Lake Almanor.
Sarah Hallas, AIF®
Sarah Hallas has over 19 years of experience in the financial services industry. She previously worked with a large bank in Sonoma County, supporting their advisor services group. As an avid runner, she recently completed her 37th marathon. Her tenacity and attention to detail make her an ideal client partner. Sarah works with Sonoma Wealth Advisors clients to assist them with their financial planning and investment portfolios. She enjoys working with her clients and hearing about their travels and life experiences. She lives in Cotati, California, with her boyfriend, Tom, and their son, Tommy Jr. When not running or working, she is taking care of her four dogs, three horses, two pet pigs, and a handful of other animals.
Rose Rosen
Rose has served clients in the financial services industry for over 40 years. She has extensive experience helping clients navigate their financial planning needs. As the Director of Client Service she is responsible for crafting the experience for Sonoma Wealth Advisor clients. Our clients get to know Rose well, as she is the go-to lead for day-to-day account operations.
Rose lives with her husband, Mike, in Rohnert Park. She is the proud mother of two, Rachael and Joe, and a proud grandmother. Anytime she finds herself baking in the kitchen surrounded by her children she is happily at home. Rose has great relationships with her kids and loves to support them in their life. If not with her kids, she is often found wandering the many antique stores found in Sonoma County.
Francisco (Frankie) Alcantar
Frankie has worked in the financial industry for over 18 years and is passionate about providing excellent service to clients. Being born and raised in Napa, CA, one of his favorite pastimes is exploring new local restaurants. In his spare time, Frankie collects baseball and trading cards. He is an avid traveler and is frequently looking for the next venture.
Dano Weir
Dano Weir values an organized, clean and clear approach. As Marketing Director for Sonoma Wealth Advisors, he ensures that our values are represented in everything we do in advertising, social media and community partnerships. With over 15 years experience as an on-air media personality and digital director, Dano brings confidence and stage presence to all of our communications. He also ensures that our client experience is thoughtful and seamless. Dano lives in Petaluma with his wife and 2 sons. Believe it or not, he really enjoys watching Paw Patrol with them. Dano is also an avid trail runner, and once ran an ultra-marathon in the Point Reyes National Seashore.
Daren Blonski, CFP®, AIF®
Daren Blonski, CFP® is the Co-founder and Managing Partner of Sonoma Wealth Advisors. He is a learner, educator, entrepreneur, and life coach. With a Master of Arts in Psychology from Sonoma State University, he is deeply connected to helping clients take their lives to the next level. His clients see him as an educator and coach, operating in the realm of financial planning.
Working with clients across the life-stage spectrum, he focuses particularly on assisting entrepreneurs looking to soak up life and maximize their fulfillment. He is an advocate of Dave Ramsey’s approach to organizing and prioritizing one’s finances.
A life-long learner. Daren is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, an Accredited Investment Fiduciary™, a Certified Retirement Planner Specialist™, a Certified Retirement Planning Counselor™, an Accredited Asset Management Specialist™, a Smartvestor Pro™ with Dave Ramsey, a Certified Digital Asset Advisor™, and has received his certificate in Blockchain and Digital AssetsSM from the Digital Assets Council of Financial Professionals. He is deeply committed to the pursuit of lifelong learning.
Multi-dimensional in his interests, he facilitates leadership training with non-profits, particularly those in Sonoma Valley. He has worked extensively internationally with the curriculum based on The Leadership Challenge framework. As an avid reader, he is always exploring new ideas and themes to incorporate into his life.
As a lifelong resident of Sonoma County, if there is a race to be run, a weight to be lifted, a mountain to be climbed, Daren is all in. He loves the outdoors. He spends his spare time pursuing his physical and mental agility through various outdoor and physical health-related activities. With all this said, Daren’s greatest joys are his three children: Brooklyn, Bryton, and Brady.
Interested in Working with Daren?
Chris Sipes,
CFP®, AIF®
Chris brings over 13 years of experience in the financial industry to Sonoma Wealth Advisors. As a co-founder of Sonoma Wealth Advisors he operates as the Chief Compliance and Investment Officer. Chris is passionate about investing and is always exploring proven strategies and techniques to assist clients in reaching their financial goals
Chris previously worked for a large national bank serving business owners and high net worth individuals. During that time, he developed a reputation as a trusted partner for his many long-term clients. He began his career in 2006 with a large, family-owned commercial insurance agency, working with business owners to identify their risks and secure customized coverage from a wide range of insurance companies.
Chris relocated from Ohio to California in 2008 to seek sun and adventure in the West. As an avid reader, Chris enjoys the stories and the personalities behind the numbers. He understands that the best plan won’t work if it’s not a plan that will work for you, and that the decisions you’re facing can be approached in a thoughtful, strategic way. Chris believes the best advice is the advice you’ll implement and see through life’s inevitable ups and downs.
Chris and his wife, Sandra, have two daughters and live in Sonoma. He’s a graduate of The Ohio State University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-Finance. In his free time, he enjoys mountain biking, skiing, and hiking with his family.
Interested in Working with Chris?
Daren Blonski, CFP®, AIF®
Daren Blonski, CFP® is the Co-founder and Managing Partner of Sonoma Wealth Advisors. He is a learner, educator, entrepreneur, and life coach. With a Master of Arts in Psychology from Sonoma State University, he is deeply connected to helping clients take their lives to the next level. His clients see him as an educator and coach, operating in the realm of financial planning.
Working with clients across the life-stage spectrum, he focuses particularly on assisting entrepreneurs looking to soak up life and maximize their fulfillment. He is an advocate of Dave Ramsey’s approach to organizing and prioritizing one’s finances.
A life-long learner. Daren is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, an Accredited Investment Fiduciary™, a Certified Retirement Planner Specialist™, a Certified Retirement Planning Counselor™, an Accredited Asset Management Specialist™, a Smartvestor Pro™ with Dave Ramsey, a Certified Digital Asset Advisor™, and has received his certificate in Blockchain and Digital AssetsSM from the Digital Assets Council of Financial Professionals. He is deeply committed to the pursuit of lifelong learning.
Multi-dimensional in his interests, he facilitates leadership training with non-profits, particularly those in Sonoma Valley. He has worked extensively internationally with the curriculum based on The Leadership Challenge framework. As an avid reader, he is always exploring new ideas and themes to incorporate into his life.
As a lifelong resident of Sonoma County, if there is a race to be run, a weight to be lifted, a mountain to be climbed, Daren is all in. He loves the outdoors. He spends his spare time pursuing his physical and mental agility through various outdoor and physical health-related activities. With all this said, Daren’s greatest joys are his three children: Brooklyn, Bryton, and Brady.
Interested in Working with Daren?
Chris Sipes, CFP®, AIF®
Chris brings over 13 years of experience in the financial industry to Sonoma Wealth Advisors. As a co-founder of Sonoma Wealth Advisors he operates as the Chief Compliance and Investment Officer. Chris is passionate about investing and is always exploring proven strategies and techniques to assist clients in reaching their financial goals
Chris previously worked for a large national bank serving business owners and high net worth individuals. During that time, he developed a reputation as a trusted partner for his many long-term clients. He began his career in 2006 with a large, family-owned commercial insurance agency, working with business owners to identify their risks and secure customized coverage from a wide range of insurance companies.
Chris relocated from Ohio to California in 2008 to seek sun and adventure in the West. As an avid reader, Chris enjoys the stories and the personalities behind the numbers. He understands that the best plan won’t work if it’s not a plan that will work for you, and that the decisions you’re facing can be approached in a thoughtful, strategic way. Chris believes the best advice is the advice you’ll implement and see through life’s inevitable ups and downs.
Chris and his wife, Sandra, have two daughters and live in Sonoma. He’s a graduate of The Ohio State University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-Finance. In his free time, he enjoys mountain biking, skiing, and hiking with his family.
Interested in Working with Chris?
Russell Van Sistine, CFP®
As a child, I remember talking to a stranger about her life as a physician. She beamed as she spoke of her patients, experiences and making a difference; the passion with which she spoke drove straight into me. I knew I wanted to live a life of service to others and I wanted to be a doctor. After high school, I was privileged to serve a two-year mission. I directly aided many different communities helping people move, cleaning houses for those that could not, praying with those who were sick; witnessing the joy as well as the suffering of others. This strengthened my desire to help.
At my first college mixer, I met the love of my life, Jenny. A year and a half later, we were married. Shortly thereafter, I got into my first college biology course where I realized quickly that it was not for me and I couldn't fathom the thought of studying it for the rest of my life. Then Jenny and I made the very sensible decision to go on a three-week tour of Europe with the business students. On that trip, I became close to one of the economics professors and through our conversations, I discovered that finance and economics are amazing and exciting, and I could be of service to others doing something I love. I now have a bachelor's degree in financial economics.
My wife, Jenny, and I now have three children, Lexi (6), Oakley (4), and Tessa (1). The five of us love to explore the world through travel and books. Jenny and I always find a way to dance together either in the kitchen or at the restaurants we visit. Lexi and Oakley are growing in skill in their Taekwondo classes.
Being a financial advisor is having the opportunity to continue studying the ever-changing field of economics and finance and utilize my passion for service. Guiding my clients with enthusiasm and passion. Those in the medical profession are trained to do something that I dreamed of doing – they help people heal. As your financial advisor, I will help you remove and eliminate the emotional burden that can come with family finances, freeing you to focus on the things you are passionate about.
At your service,
Russell Van Sistine, CFP®
Ben Sedillo, AAMS® AIF®
Raised by his mom, Ben learned at an early age the importance of building a solid financial foundation. Growing up in the Central Valley of California, much of Ben’s childhood was spent working to contribute to the household finances. In fact, a core memory for Ben is of him punching a clock for his grandparents when he was in elementary school to earn money to buy school clothes. This kind of responsibility taught him about the value of working hard, setting goals, and supporting loved ones.
His unique background makes Ben much more empathetic to the challenges his clients face when building, maintaining, and transferring wealth. That’s why he is so passionate about understanding what’s important to his clients. Ben feels that through thoughtful and specific planning he can help his clients avoid the struggles that he had endured while growing up. That way, not only can they feel prepared for different life events, they can be confident about achieving their financial dreams.
As a young man, Ben followed in his brother’s footsteps to serve the country in the United States Coast Guard. After finishing his time in the service, Ben started what became a very successful career in banking. The various positions that Ben held in banking earned him a wealth of experience, which culminated in working as a Financial Advisor, licensed and practicing since 2007.
Ben is a talented songwriter, a lucky husband to his wife, Mia, and proud father to Grace (13), Ava (8), and Donovan (3). He cherishes his family and creating moments with them. Whether it’s traveling, camping, or enjoying Sonoma County where he has lived since 2009, Ben sees his family as the center of his universe.
Kevin Morrow
Kevin has worked in the financial services industry since 1987. He spent his first decade in the insurance business, then became a bank-based Financial Advisor in Sonoma and Napa Counties. After a long career in with his previous institution, Kevin has decided to join Sonoma Wealth Advisors to continue to grow his business with Todd Gomes, Ben Sedillo and the Sonoma Wealth Advisors team.
Kevin grew up on a large dairy farm in River Falls Wisconsin. He attended the University of Wisconsin River Falls where he studied Agricultural Economics. After moving to Sonoma County in the early 1980s, Kevin became very interested in the wine industry. While pursuing his passion as a winemaker, he met Wendy, now his wife of 31 years. He has two stepchildren, Kopavi and Rachel, and a son, Dillon.
Kevin is the winemaker and owner of Tara Bella Winery in the Russian River Valley, a producer of Gold Medal winning Cabernets. When he's not hard at work, Kevin spends his time with family and friends at their winery. He loves all outdoor activities: softball, golf, hiking, camping and traveling the world with Wendy. He enjoys reading about people overcoming adversities and success stories. Being from Wisconsin, he describes himself as a huge fan of all Wisconsin sports teams and is a proud owner/shareholder of the Green Bay Packers.
Todd Gomes, AIF®
With a financial advisory practice rooted in tried-and-true money management principles, Todd approaches wealth management from a customized planning perspective.
Skilled at explaining sophisticated wealth strategies and market dynamics in a way that’s easily understandable, Todd works with his clients to outline specific goals, and customizes each portfolio from the ground up, so that his clients can realize specific life goals within specific periods of time.
With 17 years of industry experience, Todd has worked extensively in financial services; he began his career with Citibank, went on to Wachovia—where he met his wife Jessie—and later transitioned to Wells Fargo where he remained for several years before joining the team at Sonoma Wealth Advisors.
Todd Gomes is a Sonoma County native. He lives in Santa Rosa with his wife, Jessie, and their two children, Keeley, age 10, and Kaleho, age 5.
Educationally, Todd has his Bachelor of Arts from Cal State East Bay, and he’s spent years studying modern portfolio theory and asset allocation strategies in a professional capacity. In his spare time, Todd enjoys hiking, playing guitar well, and playing golf poorly.
Zach Paul, CFP®
I live in Napa, CA and grew up in Boulder, CO. I am an avid soccer player and outdoor sports enthusiast. A graduate from the University of Vermont, I was a D1 soccer player and academic scholar. Now I am a Certified Financial Planner™ and hold the Accredited Asset Management Specialist and Certified Retirement Planning Counselor designations. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my wife, Melissa, and our two dogs.
As an athlete, I experienced a career-ending leg injury and wanted to help prevent other athletes from having a similar experience as a doctor. As I pursued this dream and gained acceptance to medical school, I learned about the financial stress of education debt, and found I could make just as much of an impact helping others as a "financial doctor". Thus, I changed directions and pursued a career in finance.
I am passionate about helping clients confidently navigate the many obstacles that life can present. By using a team approach, we offer our clients a more comprehensive experience so that they have personalized attention and meaningful guidance around the various events in life. Our aim is to enrich the lives of our clients and their families, and better our community.
Clay Dunkle, CFP®, AIF®, AAMS®
Clay was born and raised in Sonoma about a mile from our home office. Having grown up here playing baseball, basketball, and soccer, he has gotten to know many of the local families that make our town so special. Now, as a financial advisor and a youth baseball coach, he is strengthening those relationships and building many new ones.
Clay’s interest in investing began in his early teens when his grandmother gave him a book of Warren Buffet quotes. He became enamored with the investing legend’s life story and investing style. This was the beginning of his endless love of education on all things investing.
Clay holds his Series 65 securities license with Sonoma Wealth Advisors, and serves in the capacity of an investment advisor representative. He is also an Accredited Asset Management SpecialistSM (AAMS®) and an Accredited Investment FiduciaryTM (AIF®). With a passion for continuing education, Clay strives to further develop his skillset in the industry and recently became a Certified Financial PlannerTM (CFP®).
When he’s not hard at work, Clay is somewhere outside with his friends and family, either exercising, playing golf, camping, adventuring the globe, or at a baseball tournament.
Terri Updegraff
Terri Updegraff is a licensed investment advisor representative dedicated to helping individuals and couples thrive financially. Her vision is a world where she can assist her clients in finding financial peace throughout various phases of their lives. She is committed to contributing to this vision by working with people, especially women, to improve their financial well-being.
Terri works with a team of savvy investment advisors who aspire to have clients’ best interest in mind. Her holistic approach starts with discovering what is most meaningful to her clients and creating a plan to get there. Whether it’s planning for retirement, saving for college, or fulfilling a personal dream, Terri’s goal is to help foster those dreams into becoming a reality.
Prior to finding her passion for helping others with their finances, Terri spent 12 years in leadership development. She also founded and ran a small business in Sonoma. Terri received her B.S. in Business Administration and Masters in Organizational Development. She is a trained coach in the co-active coaching method through the Co-Active Training Institute and has completed the Ramsey Financial Coach Master Training.
On the weekends, Terri is likely hiking in the hills, working on a home improvement project, or trying out a new recipe to be enjoyed with family and friends.
Shelby Wirick
Shelby has enjoyed a dynamic career in the realm of corporate executive management, encompassing more than a decade of service with internationally renowned Fortune 500 companies. Over the course of her career, Shelby has developed a distinct affinity for leadership and talent development, ensuring that both peers and subordinates are able to maximize their full professional potential. Through that experience, Shelby honed her lifelong passion for helping people realize their personal ambitions, and brings to SWA a wealth of knowledge that enables her to walk beside clients in achieving their business, financial, and retirement goals.
Shelby was born and raised in San Diego, but has long made Sonoma her permanent home. Shelby attended Sonoma State University where she earned a B.S. in Business Administration, a B.A. in Spanish Language Studies, and holds numerous professional certifications and accreditations. Shelby is active in the Sonoma community - residing only three short blocks from our home office - and is a member of a centennial Sonoma County ranching family.
When Shelby is not working, she is volunteering at her church, enjoying the diverse offerings of Sonoma living, traveling, and enjoying time with her husband, two children, and two black labs at Lake Almanor.
Jackie Egidio, MBA
A California native, Jackie grew up on the Central Coast with a passion for the outdoors, ocean waves, and viticulture. She brings over 20 years of experience in strategy management, finance and accounting. Jackie has lived in Sonoma since 2002, where her career focused on small family owned wineries and vineyards. Jackie started working with Sonoma Wealth Advisors in October of 2019 when the firm originated and has enjoyed building and supporting a dynamic team. She received her MBA in 2009 from John F. Kennedy University in Concord, CA. When Jackie is not in the office, she enjoys hiking, kayaking, and exploring sandy beaches with her husband Matt, and son, Ben.
Rose Rosen
Rose has served clients in the financial services industry for over 40 years. She has extensive experience helping clients navigate their financial planning needs. As the Director of Client Service she is responsible for crafting the experience for Sonoma Wealth Advisor clients. Our clients get to know Rose well, as she is the go-to lead for day-to-day account operations.
Rose lives with her husband, Mike, in Rohnert Park. She is the proud mother of two, Rachael and Joe, and a proud grandmother. Anytime she finds herself baking in the kitchen surrounded by her children she is happily at home. Rose has great relationships with her kids and loves to support them in their life. If not with her kids, she is often found wandering the many antique stores found in Sonoma County.
Francisco (Frankie) Alcantar
Frankie has worked in the financial industry for over 18 years and is passionate about providing excellent service to clients. Being born and raised in Napa, CA, one of his favorite pastimes is exploring new local restaurants. In his spare time, Frankie collects baseball and trading cards. He is an avid traveler and is frequently looking for the next venture.
Sarah Hallas, AIF®
Sarah Hallas has over 19 years of experience in the financial services industry. She previously worked with a large bank in Sonoma County, supporting their advisor services group. As an avid runner, she recently completed her 37th marathon. Her tenacity and attention to detail make her an ideal client partner. Sarah works with Sonoma Wealth Advisors clients to assist them with their financial planning and investment portfolios. She enjoys working with her clients and hearing about their travels and life experiences. She lives in Cotati, California, with her boyfriend, Tom, and their son, Tommy Jr. When not running or working, she is taking care of her four dogs, three horses, two pet pigs, and a handful of other animals.
Dano Weir
Dano Weir values an organized, clean and clear approach. As Marketing Director for Sonoma Wealth Advisors, he ensures that our values are represented in everything we do in advertising, social media and community partnerships. With over 15 years experience as an on-air media personality and digital director, Dano brings confidence and stage presence to all of our communications. He also ensures that our client experience is thoughtful and seamless. Dano lives in Petaluma with his wife and 2 sons. Believe it or not, he really enjoys watching Paw Patrol with them. Dano is also an avid trail runner, and once ran an ultra-marathon in the Point Reyes National Seashore.
