Thoughtful Investing. Client Focused. Comprehensive Approach. These are the operating principles we rely on when we work to develop an investment approach that is designed to meet our clients’ financial goals and objectives. Our client-first service begins by asking questions, listening to your responses and understanding what is important to you. As we discuss these issues, we’ll work together to evaluate your current financial picture and explore your investment time horizon and your tolerance for risk. Our thoughtful approach to portfolio design leverages institutional investment analytics to conduct extensive due diligence on the investments with which we entrust client assets. Each of these steps will help us create an objectively designed portfolio that will be tailored to meet your current and projected needs.
READY TO DISCUSS YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE?
CONTACT US TO SET UP A NO OBLIGATION PORTFOLIO REVIEW
The Lakenorth Investment Group has over 45 years of combined financial services experience. We have taken our multi-decade legacy as a successful financial services practice in Cleveland, Ohio and replicated it to also serve the Lake Keowee and Upstate South Carolina markets. Our comprehensive approach to portfolio design incorporates the importance of liquidity, income, tax planning strategies, wealth preservation strategies, and competitive pricing.
Derek W. Lunka, CFP®
Principal
Discretionary Portfolio Manager
Erin Farmer
Financial Client Associate
Matthew Smith
Senior Financial Advisor
Kayla Mitchell
Associate Financial Advisor
Derek W. Lunka, CFP®
Principal
Discretionary Portfolio Manager
I began my financial services career with Benjamin F. Edwards & Co. in January of 2011. While working alongside my father, Vic, we formed the Lakenorth Investment Group. My main areas of focus are investment manager research, portfolio design, alternative investments, and financial planning. I obtained my Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Baylor University in 2008 and completed my CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification in 2016.
Before joining Benjamin F. Edwards & Co, I held positions at IBM and Zebra Imaging in Texas. I currently reside in the Lake Keowee area with my wife and two children.
Education and Credentials
- Baylor University – Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration
- CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professional (CFP®)
Erin Farmer
Financial Client Associate
I am a Seneca, SC native and prior to joining the Lakenorth Investment Group, I worked for Wells Fargo where I began my financial services career in 2012. While at Wells Fargo, I worked in multiple banking and client interfacing roles. I have always enjoyed helping others achieve their financial goals and have over 10 years of client service experience. At the Lakenorth Investment Group, I focus on office management and client service responsibilities.
When I’m not at work you can find me hiking & camping and exploring all that upstate South Carolina has to offer. I also consider myself a creator – using the views of our surrounding area I create miniature paintings highlighting the Blue Ridge Mountains and love to share the beauty of South Carolina.
Matthew Smith
Senior Financial Advisor
With over 16 years of financial services experience, I help my clients plan ahead for their short-term needs and long-term goals. My main areas of focus are financial planning and allocating investment strategies.
I began my financial services career in 2006 with Wachovia and continued through their merger with Wells Fargo until 2018. In 2018 I became a Financial Advisor with Benjamin F. Edwards & Co. and worked there for almost 5 years before joining The Lakenorth Investment Group.
When I’m not helping clients protect and grow their assets, I love to go on adventures with my wife and our 3 children. Having memorable and fun experiences with my family has always been a priority of mine. I am also passionate about our community. I currently serve as a volunteer soccer coach and on the Seneca YMCA board. If you are in the area, you may catch me on the golf course or at a Clemson football game – go Tigers!
Education and Credentials:
Faulkner University – Bachelor’s of Science in Business Information Systems
Kayla Mitchell
Associate Financial Advisor
I am a Pickens, SC native and began my career in the financial services industry in 2006 as a teller at the
Keowee branch of Wachovia Bank. During my 16-year tenure with Wells Fargo, I rose through the ranks
of every branch banking role serving clients sales and service needs. I finished my career as the Regional
Banking Manager of Wells Fargo in Easley, SC.
When I am not at work, I can be found cheering in the stands of Pickens athletic events and managing
my large household of 8! For leisure, I enjoy the adventure of traveling to new places.
WHAT IS A CFP®? A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM, or CFP®, certification means a financial advisor has successfully completed a rigorous training program followed by a comprehensive 6-hour exam administered in accordance with the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM Board of Standards. Professionals who are awarded this accreditation demonstrate skill in analyzing situations and developing personalized long-term financial strategies. CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM in the U.S.
EWM and BFE are affiliates through their common ownership by Benjamin Edwards, Inc.
All securities, investment advisory services and brokerage services are offered through Benjamin F. Edwards. The Lakenorth Investment Group is not a registered investment adviser or broker-dealer and is independent of Benjamin F. Edwards
Depending on the context, the name “Benjamin F. Edwards®” refers to either EWM, BFE or both.
Whether you want to prepare for life’s milestones or need to plan for the unexpected, we will work alongside you to help you meet your financial and legacy goals.
AREAS OF CONCENTRATION
- Planning for corporate executives, affluent families, and successful business owners with $100,000 or more of investable assets
- Separately managed accounts using world-class money managers
- Allocations to hedge funds, private equity and venture capital
- Fiduciary investment advising and objective-based portfolio design
- Management of concentrated positions
- Advising on trusts, estates, and wealth transfer
- Retirement income and cash flow planning
All securities, investment advisory services and brokerage services are offered through Benjamin F. Edwards
Contact
We very much look forward to showing you what our client-first investment approach can mean for you and your family. Please contact us for a complimentary review of your portfolio.
(864) 580-4058Email Erin.Farmer@lakenorth.com or complete the form below.
