Irvine

Aaron moved from Chicago to Arizona as a young child. He attended Shadow Mountain High School, then served in the U.S. Navy. Following his four years of service, he entered college at Arizona State University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance. After graduating, Aaron accepted a position with New England Financial, where he honed his expertise for 16 years.

A passion for helping others improve and maintain financial achievement is what led Aaron Gordon to Watermark Wealth Strategies. As a Partner, he has the privilege of joining individuals and families on their road to financial independence by way of all-encompassing, tailored strategies. He’s not only a valuable asset to our firm, he’s also a respected leader in the areas of estate planning and money management. In addition to his Masters in Certified Estate Planning (MCEP®) and Certified Financial Planning (CFP®) designations, Aaron is certified by the Supreme Court of Arizona as a Certified Legal Document Preparer (AZCLDP).

When away from the office, Aaron and his wife, Sara, are busy raising four children, Hunter, Aubrie, Ava, and Sophia. His hobbies range from playing guitar and attending sporting events to working on projects around the house. Aaron also volunteers with St. Mary’s Food Bank and is the Past Board President for The Arc of Tempe.

Carmen was born and raised in Western New York attended St. Theresa’s Grammar School, Orchard Park High School and the University of Buffalo. Carmen’s career spans 32 years as a Branch Manager with MetLife in Buffalo, NY and agency manager in Las Vegas NV, before co-founding Benefixx LLC. specializing in employee benefit planning affiliated with SunAmerica Securities in 2000.

In addition to his Certified Estate Planning designation, he is certified by the Supreme Court of Arizona as a Certified Legal Document Preparer (AZCLDP).

Carmen’s emphasis on Comprehensive Estate Planning, Wealth Transfer and Legacy Preservation compliments his securities registrations; Series 7 (General Securities), Series 63 (Uniform Securities Agent), and Series 66 (Uniform Combined State Law).

Carmen lives in Scottsdale and has 4 children; Dara, Carly, Jake and Sam.

Preston Barnes, AIF® brings over 30 years of experience to Watermark Wealth Strategies. He is a seasoned and trusted investment advisor who brings a deep understanding of risk management, wealth management, diversification, portfolio strategy, and financial planning. As a third-generation investment advisor, and Accredited Investment Fiduciary ®, Preston has been committed to maintaining a high standard of ethics, providing clients with transparent, unbiased advice.

Preston is a board member of the Orange County Chapter for Breakthrough T1D, is a proud Rotarian and is involved with the Cardinal Legacy Foundation in Hawaii. He and his wife, Wendy, reside in Laguna Niguel, they love spending time with their 3 children and 5 grandchildren.

Allison, born and raised in California, has lived in the Valley since 2009 and has been affiliated with Watermark since April of 2011. She attended Scottsdale Community College and has a background in hospitality and tourism management. As Marketing Coordinator, Allison’s emphasis is client communications. Allison coordinates and arranges client seminars, educational meetings, and client events.

Allison lives in Scottsdale with her son, Sam.