Founder and Retirement Specialist

Richard Eller

Richard Eller is the President and Founder of Blueprint Financial Group, LLC. Since 1985, he has worked with a superb team of investment, research and support staff that focus on educating and preparing you for the most important decisions that affect your financial future and retirement lifestyle. He graduated from the University of Rochester, and successfully completed the graduate financial planning program at Fairfield University. He began his career in corporate banking at Manufacturers Hanover Trust Bank and then joined a private family investment firm. Clients appreciate the frequent communication from Rich and his team keeping them informed.

Rich often speaks to the public and has been interviewed on radio and television. His popular retirement planning workshops have been held in many locations. Rich was the host for a well-known radio financial program. He wrote a monthly newspaper column and authored other articles on investment management, saving for retirement and working to reduce taxes during retirement.

Mr. Eller works diligently as an educator and independent retirement planning specialist. This gives him the freedom and ability to focus solely on client relationships without any potential conflicts of interest. That is the Fiduciary standard of care he follows in service to you. He works for you, solely in your best interests, not any company. Rich is a Certified Financial Fiduciary® as well as a Federal Government employee benefits specialist. Rich used to raise chickens and usually donated the fresh eggs.

Blueprint Financial Group

Our Team

Ms. Gabriella BorgesDirector, Client Support Services

Gabriella Borges is Director, Client Support Services at Blueprint Financial Group where she oversees all new and existing client management efforts.  Gabriella has worked for Wells Fargo and Morgan Stanley.  She enjoys volunteering with Junior Achievement and teach the younger generation about saving money. Gabriella graduated with a degree in Financial Investments and Markets.  During her free time, she enjoys going to the gym and spending time outdoors with her dog.

Kwan LaepetInvestment Research Analyst

Kwan is an integral member of the Blueprint Financial Group team. As an Investment Research Analyst, she conducts in-depth fundamental and technical research that supports our clients’ portfolios and the firm’s model development process. Kwan plays a key role in identifying and evaluating potential investments, contributing to asset allocation decisions, and implementing trades within client accounts in coordination with the Fiduciary advisor.

In addition to her research responsibilities, Kwan reviews and evaluates financial software, trading systems, and analytical tools to help streamline office processes and enhance operational efficiency.

Kwan holds the Series 65 license, demonstrating her commitment to fiduciary standards and professional growth. She is also nearing completion of her studies in accounting and finance, with plans to pursue the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.

–Outside the office, Kwan enjoys hiking, international travel, and exploring new cultures. She’s also an adventurous home chef who loves experimenting with new cuisines.

Sladana (Jana) BukalovDirector of Client Services and Operations

Sladana (Jana) Bukalov is the Director of Client Services and Operations in our Naples office.  She is the first person you speak with and the smile you see when you visit us.

Jana has worked in the financial services industry since 2000.  She prides herself on instilling trust and confidence and is truly dedicated to providing outstanding service to all our valued client relationships.

Jana’s extensive industry knowledge and expertise helps provide a critical component to our seamless operations.

Outside the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband at home and at the gym, traveling and learning new languages and playing with her large Belgian Malinois dog.

Ben EllerResearch and Client Services Associate

Ben Eller serves as the Research and Client Services Associate at Blueprint Financial Group. He holds a degree from Susquehanna University and a Master’s degree from Pennsylvania State University and brings a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to advisory services. Ben is dedicated to supporting the research and analysis of client portfolios, streamlining processes, and enhancing the overall client experience.

Outside of work, Ben enjoys golfing, snowboarding, taking his English bulldog, Fiona, on walks, and spending time with family.