Our Story
The Black Walnut Story
Black Walnut Wealth Management gets its name from my late grandfather. He was a successful businessman who
owned many lumber companies here in Michigan back in the '40s and '50s. Of all the woods that exist, Black Walnut was
always his favorite. It’s hard, heavy, and resilient. It seemed fitting to choose a name synonymous with him and the
services I planned to offer when I launched my own business.
Black Walnut represents qualities of the financial services that clients should expect from my firm and me—financial
services that are rooted in hard facts and sound reasoning, that account for the heavy-weight financial decisions carry
over a lifetime, and resilient against market fluctuations and life transitions alike.
Meet Eric Braund,
Our Founder and CFO
The idea for Black Walnut was first planted when I was young. For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to run my own business.
You could say that my love of the financial industry began when I was around the age of 14 when I took almost all of the money I'd earned that summer (around $1,100) and invested it into a single stock that went from $1 a share to $60 a share relatively quickly.
However, I didn’t sell my first investment at that $60 price. I became attached to the stock and didn’t want to pay any taxes on the gains. Inevitably, the stock price dropped. While I still came out ahead by selling portions along the way, the lessons learned ignited the curiosity and passion for finance that ultimately resulted in Black Walnut Wealth Management.
Our Mission
We want you to enjoy life more and worry less
Financial planning and management can be complex. We're here to simplify your life. We are focused
on you and your wealth. We provide independent, objective, and unbiased financial counsel.
How We Help You
Extensive Experience
We’re seasoned experts offering more than just investment management — we deliver a fully coordinated approach to tax, legal, and estate challenges.
Trusted Advice
We provide you with sound, strategic advice to help you avoid financial mistakes and achieve your long-term goals.
Peace of Mind
We handle every detail of your financial picture—today and tomorrow—so you can relax and enjoy life.
Black Walnut Wealth Management Partners
Let’s Get to Know Each Other
Learn how to effectively organize and navigate your
finances with an experienced team committed to you
