In an investment landscape shaped by constant change — from market volatility to shifting life priorities — one truth remains steady: meaningful investing begins with a plan and a trusted advisor. For Vicky Meo, CFP®, ChFC®, CEPA®, RICP®, AAMS™, and Michael Bain, CEPA®, financial advising is not about reacting to headlines or chasing the latest trends. It is about helping individuals and families understand their financial story and make intentional decisions that support both their present needs and long-term goals.
Based in Cresskill, Vicky and Mike, along with senior BOA Diane Nigro and BOA Joviann Simpson, run an Edward Jones practice that serves clients throughout the Pascack Valley and surrounding Bergen County communities. Their approach is rooted in long-term planning, education and personal relationships, a reflection of their belief that investing is about more than numbers. At its core, it is about confidence, clarity and peace of mind.
Vicky’s path to financial advising was shaped early by both aptitude and upbringing. She credits her parents with instilling the importance of saving, discipline and planning from a young age.
“My parents emphasized the value of being prepared and thinking ahead, and that stayed with me,” Vicky said. “Growing up, they taught me the value of a dollar and that hard work is easier when you enjoy what you do every day.”
Her interest in mathematical thinking led her to study mathematics and earn a master’s degree in finance and accounting — a foundation that would later support a career built on guiding others through complex financial decisions.
Before joining Edward Jones, Vicky spent 17 years in banking and real estate, working closely with individuals and families navigating one of the most significant investments of their lives: homeownership. The experience gave her a firsthand understanding of how financial decisions intersect with personal milestones and long-term goals.
“Title closings taught me that financial decisions are deeply emotional and personal,” she said. “People aren’t just buying a house or opening an account; they’re planning for their future.”
That perspective now shapes her work as a financial advisor. Vicky works with clients at every stage of life, from young professionals beginning their investment journey to families balancing multiple financial priorities and retirees planning for what is next. Regardless of where a client starts, her focus remains the same: listening first.
“We begin with conversations, not products,” Vicky said. “Understanding someone’s goals, values and concerns allows us to create a plan that truly supports them and what they love in life.”
That planning-first philosophy emphasizes strategy before investing. Rather than reacting to market conditions, Vicky helps clients define clear objectives, establish realistic timelines and develop personalized strategies that align savings, investments and bigger-picture aspirations.
The office also includes Michael Bain, CEPA®, whose background in business and law complements his 11 years of service to clients at Edward Jones. Together, they emphasize responsible stewardship and relationship-driven advising.
“Our role is to help clients navigate their financial story over time,” Mike said. “Life changes, and your plan should evolve with it.”
One of the most rewarding aspects of her work, Vicky said, is seeing the moment when clients realize their goals are attainable. Whether it is planning for retirement, funding education or preparing for a major life transition, those milestones reinforce the value of long-term planning.
“There’s a sense of relief that comes when people understand they’re on the right path,” she said. “That confidence is incredibly powerful.”
In today’s environment, many clients arrive with understandable concerns, including inflation, market volatility and economic uncertainty. The pair addresses those worries by helping clients focus on what they can control.
“We spend a lot of time on budgeting, cash flow and proactive planning,” Mike said. “When people feel prepared, uncertainty becomes easier to manage.”
Education plays a central role in that process. Vicky prioritizes clear communication and accessibility, ensuring clients leave meetings feeling supported, confident and never overwhelmed.
“When clients call our office, they reach people who know them,” she said. “We talk about life, not just finances, because money touches nearly every aspect of it.”
That relationship-driven approach resonates deeply in the Pascack Valley, where community connections matter. Vicky is actively involved locally and believes giving back is an essential part of her role as an advisor.
Vicky, a resident of River Vale, is a longtime member and former president of the Park Ridge Rotary Club and currently serves as assistant governor for her Rotary district. She has also been active with the Alzheimer’s Association and the Bergen-Passaic Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
“Donating time is just as important as being able to donate money,” Vicky said. “Being involved allows you to see the impact you’re making firsthand.”
Mike has also dedicated many years of service to the community as a coach and president of the Haworth Soccer Association and has served on the Haworth council to continue giving back.
For readers who may feel unsure about investing or hesitant to begin, both offer straightforward advice: start somewhere.
“Even small, consistent contributions can make a meaningful difference over time,” Vicky said.
“Time and compounding are powerful tools, no matter when you begin,” Mike added.
Their guiding principles remain simple — stay invested, diversify and contribute regularly while working — but they emphasize that every plan should reflect the individual behind it.
“Markets move in cycles,” Vicky said. “What matters most is staying focused on your goals and celebrating your progress along the way.”
Ultimately, Vicky and Mike’s message is clear: confidence comes from preparation, and the most successful financial journeys are built on intention, education and trust.
For more information, contact Vicky Meo at Edward Jones, 300 Knickerbocker Road, Suite 3200, Cresskill. Call 201-445-9220, email vicky.meo@edwardjones.com, or visit edwardjones.com/us-en/financial-advisor/vicky-meo
“We begin with conversations, not products. Understanding someone’s goals, values and concerns allows us to create a plan that truly supports them and what they love in life.” - Vicky Meo
“Markets move in cycles. What matters most is staying focused on your goals and celebrating your progress along the way.” - Vicky Meo