Audrey Emerson

My path to becoming a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional was a somewhat unconventional one. As a former (recovering?) theater kid, I earned a degree in film and spent years as a producer in the dynamic world of social impact entertainment and corporate video.

It was through the lens of my creative community that my interest in finance became deeply personal. My talented friends didn’t have access to traditional employer benefits like 401(k)s and affordable health insurance and I felt driven to figure out alternatives, initially to help myself and those around me. This personal exploration ignited a passion that grew as I realized I genuinely enjoyed helping my friends reduce the financial drama in their life more than being on set. This ultimately led me to pursue my CFP® certification, gain valuable experience with the team at Cultivating Wealth, and finally launch Cents of Joy Financial Planning.

My background in storytelling and understanding diverse perspectives deeply informs my accessible and empathetic approach to financial planning. My hope is that by really listening and getting to know your story, we can build a meaningful, effective, and joyful financial life for you!

Outside of talking about money, you can find me exploring the hiking and biking trails of the North Cascades and hosting monthly themed wine tasting nights with friends. Originally a New Englander, I've happily made Bellingham, WA my home (but still root for all Boston sports teams obviously).