Tell us a little about yourself and Butterfly Financial Planning?
I am Rakhee, founder of Butterfly Financial Planning. We help business owners and professionals, usually aged 45 plus, pull everything together and feel more in control of their money. For me, financial planning is not just about pensions and investments. It is about understanding what you want your life to look like, both now and in the future, and making sure your money helps you live that life.
What made you decide to start the business?
It really goes back to my mother’s divorce. I saw first-hand the stress and anxiety that money caused her, and ever since then, I had a dream that I wanted to do things differently. I wanted to help people feel more in control of their money and their future, and to give them the reassurance that comes from having a plan. That is a big part of why Butterfly exists today.
What makes Butterfly different from a more traditional financial-planning firm?
We genuinely care. I want our clients to feel listened to, looked after, and reassured. Money can cause a huge amount of worry, even when you are doing all the right things. We take the time to understand the whole picture. I often think financial planning is a bit like playing chess. We are always thinking about the here and now, but also what the next few moves might look like. There is no one-size-fits-all plan. It has to be personal to you.
Describe the typical Butterfly client?
Usually a business owner or professional aged 45 plus who has spent years working hard, earning well, and building up different pensions and investments. Then they get to a point where they think: Have I got enough? Can I afford to slow down? When can I retire? Am I making the most of what I have? Often, everything is there, but it feels scattered. Our job is to pull it all together, give them clarity, and hopefully lift a weight off their shoulders.
What do you love most about living or working in Bromley?
I have worked in Bromley for 30 years, and it has a piece of my heart. It is the people—so friendly and welcoming—that I truly love.
What is your favourite place to eat in Bromley?
I used to love the mussels in The Abbaye when it was around. Right now, I would have to say Gail’s Bakery—simple, but it always hits the spot!
When you are not working, how do you like to spend your time?
I am an avid reader, I follow the Booker Prize year in, year out, and I love the theatre.
What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?
I can pick up pens with my toes!
Bromley in three words?
Fun, buzzing, friendly.