Our Story
Built on a Simple Premise
Your interests. Always first.
Founded in 2011 in Wilmington, NC, Tilia Fiduciary Partners was created because we believed wealth management for multi-generational families could — and should — be done differently.
Who We Are
A Firm Founded on Fiduciary Principles
In 2011, Tilia Fiduciary Partners was established in Wilmington, North Carolina, to solve a fundamental structural flaw in the financial services industry: the persistent conflict between institutional product sales and absolute client alignment. We engineered an independent, fee-only wealth management practice around a single fiduciary conviction — that families navigating complex financial transitions deserve an objective, unconflicted partner acting unconditionally in their best interests.
The name Tilia refers to the linden tree — a symbol of resilience, longevity, and deep-rooted growth. Like the tree it's named for, the firm was built for the long term, not for short-term transactions.
Today, Tilia serves a select group of multi-generational families, business owners, and very high net worth individuals from our office at 32 N. Front Street, Wilmington. With $430M+* under management for over 300 families across a dozen states, our team of CFP®, CFA®, and CEPA®-certified advisors brings depth, discipline, and genuine care to every relationship — from the founder's first IRA to the grandchild's generation.
* as of July 2026
By the Numbers
* as of July 2026
Our Principles
Four Commitments We Never Compromise
Fiduciary Duty
We are legally and ethically obligated to act solely in your best interest — not our own. This is our most fundamental commitment, and it shapes every recommendation we make.
Fee-Only, Zero Commission
We are compensated only by you. We never earn commissions, referral fees, or kickbacks from product sales. Our interests are perfectly aligned with yours.
Transparency
You always know exactly what you pay and what you receive. No hidden charges, no complicated fee structures — just straightforward, honest counsel.
Long-Term Partnership
We build multi-decade relationships with our clients and their families. We measure success not in quarterly returns, but in whether you reach the life you envisioned.
The Fiduciary Standard
fi·du·ci·ar·y
A fiduciary is legally required to act solely in the best interests of the person they represent. This is the highest standard of care in the financial industry — and it is the standard we hold ourselves to every single day.
Not us
Suitability Standard
What most brokers follow. Recommends products that are "suitable" — even if better options exist.
Not us
Best Interest Standard
A partial step forward adopted by FINRA in 2020. Reduces some conflicts but still allows commission-based sales.
Our standard
Fiduciary Standard
The highest bar. We are required to always act in your interest — legally binding, unconditional, and non-negotiable.
"We never lose sight of the fact that the word client historically signifies 'a person under the protection of another'. Our strict, fee-only fiduciary mandate is to build an uncompromised, unconflicted defensive perimeter around your family's multi-generational wealth."
Walker Abney, CFP® & Ryan Casey, CFP®, CEPA® — Partners
Our Journey
Over a Decade of Fiduciary Excellence
Firm Founded
Established in Wilmington, NC with a single principle: clients first.
CFP® Team Expansion
Grew the advisory team with additional CFP®-certified professionals.
CEPA® Expertise Added
Added Certified Exit Planning Advisor expertise to serve business owners.
CFA® Research Depth
Brought on CFA®-level investment analysis to deepen portfolio rigor.
National Recognition
Named USA Today #1 RIA in North Carolina & Newsweek Best Advisory Firms.
Next Steps
Ready to Meet the Team?
Learn about the advisors who will put this philosophy into practice — individually certified fiduciaries who are as invested in your future as you are.
Let's Talk
Start Your Fiduciary Partnership
Schedule a confidential introductory consultation with absolutely no obligation. We'll discuss your goals and how Tilia can help.
Phone
(910) 679-4093Office
32 N. Front Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
Office Hours (ET)
Mon–Thu: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Fri: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm