Maintaining The Magic

Lesson No. 3
Experience does not ensure success, but the two definitely travel in the same circles. On my first visit, Taillevent had been creating outstanding dining experiences for 26 years. By the time I returned, the staff had been working on a craft the restaurant had been perfecting for 68 years. They have mastered the concept of savoir faire—the ability to do the right thing with confidence in any situation.

People are increasingly attracted to the exciting story of the day or the hot, new trend. Our attention is drawn to shiny things, loud noises and intriguing sound bites. In developing investment solutions for our clients, we should not forget that experience is the cornerstone of sound decision-making. It may be harder to sell than sizzle, but it is better for our clients.

Lesson No. 4
There is power and beauty in a big idea executed with an attention to detail. Years ago, someone dreamed of what the best possible dining experience would look, taste and feel like. They considered every element. Then they set about making every aspect of that dream a reality in a way that has produced pure joy for the patrons of Taillevent for decades.

We serve as stewards of our clients’ long-term financial security. This is an enormous responsibility. It would be presumptuous to suggest that any of us have mastered every element of this important role to the extent that Taillevent has in its area of endeavor. But if we aspire greatly, there is no limit to what we might accomplish.

Merci beaucoup, Taillevent! 

Scott MacKillop is president of Frontier Asset Management LLC, a firm that provides portfolio management services to financial advisors and their clients. He can be reached at [email protected].