Cash-Balance Plans
Evaluate cash-balance plan opportunities for profitable business owners seeking higher tax-deferred contributions, coordinated funding targets, and a retirement strategy aligned with company cash flow.
Barking Sands Capital helps Grand Rapids, MI small-business owners design retirement plans that support employees, reduce tax friction, and align with long-term business goals. From 401(k) and cash-balance options to investment oversight and coordinated planning, our independent, fee-based approach gives West Michigan employers clear guidance without product-pushing pressure.
Integrated retirement plan consulting for small businesses, owners, and employer-sponsored plans.
Evaluate cash-balance plan opportunities for profitable business owners seeking higher tax-deferred contributions, coordinated funding targets, and a retirement strategy aligned with company cash flow.
Build employer retirement plan strategies that support employee retention, owner savings goals, and long-term business planning through coordinated plan design and investment guidance.
Coordinate business owner tax strategies with retirement contributions, plan structure, and broader financial decisions to help reduce friction and improve after-tax outcomes.
Integrate legal, insurance, tax, retirement, and financial planning through Barking Sands Capital’s proprietary InteProcess™ for a cohesive small-business planning experience.
Manage plan assets with research-backed investment strategies, portfolio analysis, diversification guidance, and risk awareness across the owner’s broader financial picture.
Help owners and employees evaluate 401(k) rollover decisions and transition retirement savings into investment strategies that match their goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.
We begin with a focused review of your company structure, employee census, cash flow, owner objectives, and existing benefits. For Grand Rapids employers, we also consider regional hiring competition and the practical needs of growing West Michigan teams.
A coordinated, transparent approach for owners who want more than a generic plan.
Fee-based guidance with transparent compensation and no product-pushing pressure for owners.
CFP® and ChFC professionals bring advanced planning credentials to Grand Rapids business decisions.
InteProcess™ connects retirement, tax, insurance, legal, and investment planning in one coordinated strategy.
Michigan roots and Midwest expansion support practical guidance for West Michigan employers.
Meet the advisors behind your coordinated planning process.
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.
The best retirement plan for a small business depends on owner goals, employee count, cash flow, tax priorities, and administrative preferences. Common options include SIMPLE IRAs, SEP IRAs, traditional 401(k)s, safe harbor 401(k)s, and cash-balance plans. Barking Sands Capital helps compare contribution limits, employer obligations, tax coordination, and investment oversight so the plan supports both the business and its employees.
Get clear answers before choosing a retirement plan.
Advanced credential in comprehensive financial planning.
Recognized standard for personal financial planning.
Transparent, fee-based advisory structure.
Share your business goals, employee needs, and current plan details. We’ll respond with next steps for a focused retirement plan conversation.
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.