Tax Optimization
Integrated strategies for business owners, AMT considerations, tax and retirement coordination, and long-term planning decisions that affect wealth preservation and financial flexibility.
Barking Sands Capital helps business owners and individuals make smarter tax decisions through integrated planning, retirement coordination, and strategic business advisory. With a fee-based, client-first approach, the team connects tax, legal, insurance, investment, and retirement considerations into one clear strategy—so you can reduce surprises, preserve wealth, and move toward your financial destination with confidence.
Integrated tax, retirement, investment, and business advisory solutions designed around your goals and financial picture.
Integrated strategies for business owners, AMT considerations, tax and retirement coordination, and long-term planning decisions that affect wealth preservation and financial flexibility.
Planning and consulting for small business owners, including business owner tax strategies, cash-balance plan considerations, and guidance that connects company decisions with personal financial goals.
A coordinated planning approach that integrates legal, insurance, tax, retirement, and financial planning into one seamless advisory process for individuals, business owners, and institutions.
Retirement analysis covering distribution strategies, 401(k) rollovers, cash-balance plans, and tax-aware coordination designed to support income needs and long-term financial security.
Strategic Roth conversion guidance to help evaluate taxable income timing, potential tax-free growth, retirement flexibility, and the long-term impact on wealth transfer goals.
Portfolio and asset management strategies that align investment decisions with tax planning, risk tolerance, retirement timelines, and broader wealth management objectives.
The team begins by reviewing your goals, current financial picture, business structure, retirement plans, investment accounts, insurance considerations, and existing tax concerns. This creates a clear baseline before any recommendations are discussed.
Barking Sands Capital is a solution-based firm that pairs coordination and transparency with client-first tax and business planning.
Independent RIA structure supports transparent, fee-based guidance without commissions on managed accounts.
InteProcess™ connects tax, legal, insurance, retirement, and financial planning into one coordinated strategy.
The team supports individuals, institutional investors, and business owners with sophisticated personalized advice.
Founded in 2004, the firm has built lasting relationships through service, value, and referrals.
Meet the advisors behind coordinated financial planning.
Principal, ChFC
JB L'Esperance is a co-founder and Principal of Barking Sands Capital (The L'Esperance Group, LLC), holding the prestigious Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designation. With a career that began right out of college in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, JB has built deep expertise in investment management, retirement analysis, estate planning, and small business planning. Licensed in life and health insurance in both Michigan and Minnesota, he has maintained lasting relationships with many of his earliest clients — a testament to his commitment to delivering excellent service and real value. The oldest of six siblings, JB developed strong teamwork and family values early, qualities that define his client-first advisory approach. He and his wife Kelly reside in Independence, Minnesota, where they continue growing their Midwest financial planning practice.
Principal
Kelly C. L'Esperance is a co-founder and Principal of Barking Sands Capital (The L'Esperance Group, LLC), bringing a strong background in investment services, fixed income investing, retirement and education planning, and investment portfolio management. With five years of experience at one of the nation's largest commercial banks, Kelly joined her husband and business partner JB to build an independent, fee-based advisory firm grounded in putting clients' needs above all else. Growing up in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, where her family ran small resort businesses, Kelly developed an entrepreneurial spirit and deep appreciation for personalized service. Kelly resides in Independence, Minnesota, with JB and their two children.
Advisor
Curtis Hewitt is an Advisor with Barking Sands Capital, specializing in Medicare Planning and Long Term Care. Based in Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Curtis brings a dynamic entrepreneurial career to his advisory role, having successfully started, managed, and sold multiple businesses throughout his professional life. He is also co-founder of MSIS Agency. Curtis holds a degree in Architectural Design from Lansing Community College and a Business Management degree from Colorado Technical University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He holds Life and Health insurance licenses along with Series 6 and Series 63 registrations. A dedicated community servant, Curtis has served as president of a local Women's Shelter, school board member, and co-founder of a youth mountain biking program. He resides in Marquette with his wife and four children.
Client Relationship Manager
Tara Handy is the Client Relationship Manager at Barking Sands Capital, bringing more than two decades of experience in the financial services industry. She specializes in client service, account management, and operational support, ensuring that both advisors and clients receive responsive, accurate, and professional assistance. Tara holds Series 7 and Series 63 securities registrations, Life and Health Insurance licenses, and is a commissioned Notary Public. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Gardner-Webb University. Known for building strong, lasting relationships, Tara is dedicated to making every client interaction seamless and reliable. She resides in western North Carolina with her husband and three children, and values hard work, strong relationships, and serving others in every aspect of her life.
CFP®
Andrea Cervena is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) with Barking Sands Capital, bringing over 20 years of financial industry experience spanning three continents and multiple sectors including banking, real estate, hospitality, and sports. She holds a BA in International Business and Business Administration from Minot State University and an MA in International Relations from the International University of Japan. Since 2020, Andrea has focused exclusively on personal finance, earning her CFP® designation and assisting clients with Tax Planning, Estate Planning, Retirement Planning, Education Funding, and Budgeting. Her service-oriented approach and global perspective allow her to craft creative, tailored financial solutions. Outside of work, Andrea is an active volleyball official, cycling community ambassador, and Masters Ski Racing board member.
Tax strategist fees vary based on complexity, business structure, income sources, and whether planning includes retirement, investment, estate, or insurance coordination. A simple annual review may cost less than ongoing advisory for a business owner. Barking Sands Capital uses a fee-based advisory approach and focuses on integrated planning rather than product-driven recommendations.
Connect with our team for thoughtful, coordinated planning guidance.
Recognized standard for comprehensive financial planning expertise.
Advanced credential in financial and tax planning.
Fee-based advisory structure with transparent client-first guidance.
Share your goals, concerns, and planning needs. The Barking Sands Capital team will help you determine the right next step for coordinated tax and business advisory support.
For immediate assistance, feel free to give us a direct call at 952-500-8854. You can also send us a quick email at jb@barkingsandscapital.com.
For immediate assistance, feel free to give us a direct call at 952-500-8854. You can also send us a quick email at jb@barkingsandscapital.com.