We are honored to share that Melissa Joy has been named to Forbes’ 2026 Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-in-State list for Michigan, a national ranking that recognizes many of the country’s leading women in wealth management. Melissa was listed at #49 for Michigan women advisors. Melissa was named to the same list in 2025, as well.

This recognition means a lot to our team. There are so many talented, dedicated financial advisors doing great work, and we are grateful to see Melissa included alongside such impressive women in our field.

About the Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors Ranking

Forbes’ annual ranking, compiled by SHOOK Research, highlights exceptional women advisors across the country.

The methodology draws on both qualitative and quantitative factors, including interviews, client retention, industry experience, compliance records, and assets under management. This ranking is based on data as of June 30, 2025, and was released on February 4, 2026. Pearl Planning and Melissa Joy did not pay any compensation to be considered for this ranking.

For the full methodology, visit the Forbes ranking methodology page.

Why Representation in Financial Planning Matters

One thing we care about deeply is making sure people, especially women, feel seen and supported in financial planning. Many of the clients we serve are balancing full lives, growing responsibilities, and more financial complexity than they have time to sort through on their own. It matters to have advisors who understand that reality and can bring clarity without adding more stress.

Pearl Planning was founded as a woman-owned firm, and that is an important part of who we are. It shapes how we listen, how we advise, and how we build relationships with the people we serve.

Being recognized by Forbes for this work means a great deal to us. We see it as encouragement to keep showing up for our clients and to keep helping move the profession forward.

What This Means for You as a Client

At Pearl Planning, our lead advisors are all CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals and fiduciaries. That means every recommendation we make is grounded in your full financial picture and made in your best interest. For people navigating a lot at once, that kind of guidance can bring clarity, confidence, and valuable time back.

This recognition reflects the relationships we have built with our clients over the years. We are thankful to every client who has trusted us with their financial life, asked thoughtful questions, and let us be part of their story. The work we do together is what makes recognition like this possible.

If you would like to learn more about working with Pearl Planning, we would love to talk. You can schedule a complimentary call at pearlplanning.com.

Award Disclosure

Third-party rankings and recognition from rating services or publications are no guarantee of future investment success. Working with a highly rated advisor does not ensure that a client or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance or results. These ratings should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor or by any client, nor are they representative of any one client’s evaluation. Generally, ratings, rankings, and recognition are based on information prepared and submitted by the advisor. This ranking is based on data as of 06/30/2025. The ranking was released on 02/04/2026. Pearl Planning and Melissa Joy did not pay any compensation to be considered for this rating. Forbes’ annual ranking, compiled by SHOOK Research, showcases Melissa Joy among 1,991 exceptional women advisors managing a cumulative $2.8 trillion in assets. For more information on methodology, visit the Forbes ranking methodology page.