Annette Findling
Owner, Stonebridge Wealth Advisors, Founder, Rich Women Rock
What makes me fierce:
What truly makes me fierce is that I have been able to pursue a career that I love and that fulfills me while also enjoying the privilege of raising a family. There have been tough moments along the way, but I’ve been able to make it work because of the unwavering support of my husband, David.
I am also really proud of the volunteer work that I do. I work with The Service Club of Chicago. It’s an amazing organization of women who assist, improve, or enlarge upon agency programs that serve Chicagoans in need. I am also on the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum board which is dedicated to the documentation and interpretation of the history and the art of fashion. Anyone who knows me well knows how much I love fashion. The Costume Council is the perfect way to marry my favorite hobby with serving the arts in Chicago.
What do I love most…
I couldn’t be more proud of the two sons that my husband and I have raised – one of whom is gearing up for his Junior year in college while the other who begins his university adventure this fall. It’s such a great feeling to watch our boys embark on adulthood and begin to show the world who they are. They boys aren’t the only ones who are having fun, though. My husband and I just moved back to the city after a decade and a half on the North Shore. We are huge fans of live music and I cannot wait to take advantage of all that the city has to offer!
Three women I admire…
I surround myself with brilliant women, so it’s awfully hard to choose only three. That said, my mother, Anita Koch, has always been a larger-than-life figure in my life and has provided me with a lifetime of inspiration. My mother emigrated to the United States from Germany following World War II and she worked incredibly hard with my Dad to make a meaningful life and raise me and my sister. She was a seamstress and it was she who shared her love of fashion with me. Even more influential, was her belief that it was important to be good at math. One could say that I made an entire career out of listening to my mom!
What book should every woman read?
I would highly suggest reading, “Does This Make My Assets Look Fat?” by Susan Hirshman
Favorite Spot In the city?
Again a tough choice depending on my mood! I am always happy with a great rooftop deck or patio, good cocktails and appetizer menu…and of course hanging with my family or friends.