,CFP®
Solon is dedicated to building trust and providing clear, effective guidance in all aspects of family finances. He takes the time to understand unique financial situations, simplify complex concepts, and deliver tailored solutions to maximize his client’s net worth. As a licensed pilot, he is experienced at scenario planning and crafting strong plans to prepare for the unpredictable.
Solon has over 30 years of financial services experience. He joined Modera in November 2022, through the acquisition of Bernhardt Wealth Management, where he was a co-owner and principal. He held prior roles at Pinnacle Advisory Group and TD Ameritrade.
Solon received a B.F.A. in theater design from the University of Connecticut and completed Georgetown University’s executive program in financial planning. He also received a commercial pilot license from the Flight Safety Academy. Solon is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and has held Board positions on the National Capitol Area Chapter of the Financial Planning Association.
Solon is a member of the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) and has been recognized with various industry awards.
Solon lives in Northern Virginia with his family, with whom he enjoys exploring the world through travel, hikes, and experiences.
What do you value most in your client relationships?
I enjoy walking along with clients throughout their lives and watching their planning unfold successfully over time. I enjoy the relationships I have built with my clients over many years.
What sparked your interest in financial planning? What fuels you every day in your work?
When my father first introduced me to the profession ages ago, it sparked an interest that never left. It is a complex and ever-changing industry, yet many of the principles continue to work very well. I’m fascinated with the new investments and planning concepts that keep me interested every day. Also, clients have ever-changing situations, almost daily it seems, and I enjoy being able to assist them in any way I can and to take on whatever I can so they can focus on more of what is important to them.
How do you feel you help to create impact for clients?
Helping them shoulder the weight of wealth management so they don’t feel like they have to worry about it. The amount of financial planning information is overwhelming, and we help by alleviating some of that burden.
What do you feel is a strength that you have?
Relating complex financial planning topics in an understandable way.
What do you enjoy most about working at Modera?
I love having colleagues with diverse professional backgrounds to confer with – and helping others in the firm as well , where I can. It’s a real collegial atmosphere.
How do you do good in your community?
I like to help with financial literacy and assisting with pro bono planning initiatives in the Washington DC community.
When you retire you’re going to…?
Probably move somewhere warmer but I’d like to stay in this role as long as possible. Fortunately, the typical retirement age is farther out than most jobs.
Where did you grow up? Where do you live now?
I grew up in Stamford CT and moved to Washington DC in the 90s. I now live in the DC suburbs with my family.
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®
University of Connecticut, BFA, Design
FlightSafety Academy – Commercial pilots license, with multiengine and instrument ratings
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