“Each of my grandparents has been a great example when it comes to practicing sound financial habits," Bennion says. “First and foremost, they lived well within their means.”

“They focused on quality, not quantity when it came to purchases — buying furniture that would last decades and clothing that could be worn season after season. If something was broken, they would try to fix it first rather than throw it away. My grandma still has the silverware set she got when they were married nearly 70 years ago.”

Bennion says that by not spending more than they earned and not being consumed by “things,” they were able to prioritize saving and investing their money. “This gave them the freedom to generously share with their communities and families,” she says. “I have tried to follow this example and make regular donations to organizations and causes I care about and look for opportunities for one-off moments of generosity.”

Bennion notes that today there is a much larger culture of consumption and status around material things than her grandparents ever faced. “I’ve found that consciously tuning that out, focusing on needs rather than wants and setting saving and investing goals brings a level of peace and steadiness in my finances that I don’t think I would have otherwise,” she says.

Amber Bryant – Tooele Branch Manager 

Tooele Branch Manager Amber Bryant says her grandparents’ financial guidance was rooted in practical frugality. “They firmly believed in saving more than you spend, reminding me that just because you can afford something doesn't mean you should buy it,” she says.

Bryant says her grandmother managed a dedicated household account strictly for bills and groceries, carefully budgeting for food only after the monthly expenses were covered. By tracking weekly specials and clipping coupons, she made every dollar stretch.

“That old-school discipline is why I often recommend that my customers open a second, dedicated account exclusively for bills,” she says. “By separating your fixed expenses from your daily spending, you remove the temptation to overspend. Sticking to a budget is a classic, reliable way to build a secure financial future.”

Adam Velasquez – Private Banking Relationship Manager

Private Banking Relationship Manager Adam Velasquez says a timeless piece of guidance tied to finances came from his Grandpa George, who said: “It’s better to have more than enough than not enough.”

“He would tell me that phrase when I was a young teen helping him remodel his office, often referring to how much he would purchase in supplies or how many nails I should carry with me up the ladder, etc.,” Velasquez recalls. “I use that way of thinking in how I help clients to prepare for retirement, when I discuss line of credit limits with clients, stock my own home with necessities and even order tacos.”

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