Our Mission
Drew Blackston, CRC® RFC® Founder & CEO
Valerie Blackston Co-Founder | Vice President
The co-founder and vice president of Pearl Wealth Group, Valerie is ready to work with you during this exciting time known as retirement! Her goal is to give clients a unique experience that goes beyond the traditional financial services structure. In addition to working with those in and nearing retirement, Valerie also helps with the firm’s marketing and operations.
Valerie has called the Tampa Bay area home for 25 years. With a solid background in financial services and marketing, she launched her career after studying international business at Southeastern University in Lakeland, where she also minored in Spanish. Prior to Pearl Wealth Group, she sharpened her skills at a Fortune 500 financial services corporation and several marketing companies. Inspired by entrepreneurship, she co-founded Pearl Wealth Group with her husband, Drew.
Outside of work, Valerie is active in her community. She balances her career with homeschooling her three kids and enjoys baking and horseback riding with her oldest daughter. Her faith and community are important to her, and she loves traveling with Drew, their children, and their two loyal dogs.
Matt McKeown, RFC® Financial Planner
Matt is a man who embodies the word “service” in multiple areas of his life, and the Pearl Wealth Group team is proud to have him on board. Matt is a veteran of the United States Air Force who began his financial services career in 2002. With more than two decades of experience, he has earned several industry honors for his dedication and expertise.
With a focus on retirement, estate, and investment planning, Matt is passionate about helping individuals and families gain confidence and control over their financial future. He guides clients from goal setting to creating and implementing customized financial plans for their retirement dreams. Matt currently holds the Series 6, 63, and 65 securities exams and the FL 2-15 life, health, and variable annuity agent license.
When he's not busy crafting financial strategies, Matt enjoys the sunny Florida lifestyle with his family. Whether boating, diving, golfing, paddle-boarding, or kayaking, Matt loves spending quality time with his boys, his wife, Tiffany, and their adorable puppy, Sailor.
Jenny Gabicki Director of Client Services
With more than two decades of experience, Jenny is ready to take on any challenge! Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Jenny and her family moved to Florida in 1996. She has since built a career dedicated to supporting both her team members and clients with a blend of professionalism and care.
When she's not working, Jenny enjoys a fulfilling life as a wife and mother of two energetic boys. Whether she's enjoying the great outdoors or spending quality time with her family, Jenny finds joy in life's simple pleasures. Her two beloved dogs, Ranger and Jeter, are never far from her side and hold a special place in her heart.
Cooper and Gracie Chief Happiness Officers
Cooper and Gracie are Pearl Wealth Group's official chief happiness officers. Cooper has been with Pearl Wealth Group and the Blackston family since the very beginning. After being rescued from the South Lake Animal League in 2015, Cooper has napped on every couch, bed, and blanket in the Blackston home.
Gracie is the newcomer to the family and comes from a long line of AKC Golden Retrievers. Her greatest asset to the Blackston family and Pearl Wealth Group is her contagious spirit that moves her play, play and play some more. Together, Cooper and Gracie bring incredible joy and happiness to the entire Blackston family and the visitors to Pearl Wealth Group—they’re sure to brighten your day!
Ready to take the next steps in your retirement?
For more information about our retirement and investment services, schedule your visit today!