We don’t just build wealth.
We help build richer lives.
For over fifty years, we have helped individuals, families and business owners make financial decisions with confidence.
Our story
Our story, forged through generations.
Fifty years, three generations, and one family firm that has never changed hands outside it.
1976
David MB Smith founds the firm from Riviera House in Buckhurst Hill.
1977
Office moves to Woodford Green.
1982
Office moves to Debden Broadway.
2003
David Smith Financial Services LLP is formed.
2003
David's son, Ian Smith, becomes a partner.
2015
James Smith, Ian's son and David's grandson, joins the firm.
2019
Oliver Salmon, David's great nephew, joins the firm.
2022
David retires.
2023
James and Oliver take over as Senior Partners.
2026
Fifty years in business.
2026
Rebrand to lifesmiths and move to new Loughton offices.
Why we exist
We aim to cultivate lives of purpose, balance, and freedom for our clients, our team and ourselves.
Who we work with
While every journey is unique, we tend to work with people at pivotal moments in their lives. When good decisions today can shape the years ahead.
People preparing for life beyond work
You’re approaching retirement and want to understand what your wealth can really provide. Together, we’ll help you turn years of saving into the confidence to enjoy the next chapter, knowing your finances can support the life you want to live.
Business owners
You’ve worked hard to build your business. Whether you’re growing, extracting wealth tax-efficiently, bringing in the next generation or thinking about stepping back one day, we’ll help ensure your business supports your personal ambitions. Not the other way around.
Successful families in their thirties and forties
Life is busy. You’re balancing careers, family and future aspirations while wanting to make smart financial decisions without becoming a financial expert yourself. We’ll provide the clarity and ongoing guidance so you can focus on living life, knowing your financial future is in good hands.
Meet the team
James Smith
Senior Partner & Chartered Financial Planner
Oliver Salmon
Senior Partner & Chartered Financial Planner
Ilze Skendere
Senior Paraplanner
Leigh Sellwood
Operations Manager
Daisy Rathbone
Financial Planning Assistant
Jeremy Salmon
Trainee Financial Planner
Client outcomes
The best plans don’t just protect your future. They unlock it.
Every plan starts with a question. More often than not, our clients discover they have more choices than they realised.
Testimonials
In our clients’ own words.
An extremely personal family business that cares about their clients and their lifestyles.
Garry
,
Essex
Retirement planning client since 2019
I met with Oliver a couple of times before he came back to me with a proposal on how best to meet my future financial needs. These initial meetings helped me to clearly understand what I wanted from a financial perspective and once that was clear putting the plan in place to deliver that, was easy.
Cathal
,
London
Retirement planning client since 2025
lifesmiths was recommended to us by a friend. Even though we are in Surrey and miles from the offices, it was a tremendous recommendation. All the staff are very knowledgeable, extremely professional, courteous, approachable and no matter how many times we call or have questions, nothing is too much trouble. We are delighted to be working with lifesmiths and long may it continue.
Gillian and Colin
,
Surrey
Retirement planning clients since 2024
I am always happy with the help and suggestions made by yourselves. Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend your business to anyone. You always make us feel at ease and we have great trust in what you do.
Sheila and Graham
,
Essex
Retirement and Inheritance Tax Planning clients since 2015
A trustworthy and knowledgeable team who get to know and understand their customers needs. The staff are friendly and welcoming, nothing is too much trouble. We feel our finances are in great hands and could not be happier with the services provided.
Bev and Keith
,
Essex
Retirement planning clients since 2018
We have been with the company for ten years. They have always been very professional and always interested in our lifestyle needs and listened to what our requirements as clients are and advised us accordingly. We love the fact that it is a small family business and everyone in the team seems to enjoy their work.
Steve and Tracey
,
Essex
Retirement Planning clients since 2015
My late husband and I have always been very pleased with the service you have provided to us over many years. You have always followed our wishes with regard to our investments and we have benefitted greatly from your advice. Advice has always been timely and well considered and everything has always been discussed fully with us. I continue to value the courteous manner in which you manage my portfolio and your interaction with me. Thank you.
Jill
,
Essex
Retirement and Inheritance Tax Planning client since 2004
lifesmiths have been a very welcoming and competent company. They have assisted us with friendly, clearly spoken advice about our finances and helped us to navigate the sometimes arduous processes involved. We will gladly remain clients of them and recommend them warmly to family and friends.
Gary and Linda
,
Essex
Retirement planning clients since 2020
A chartered, independent financial planning firm. Helping people in and around retirement see what’s possible with what they’ve built.
Get in touch
hello@lifesmiths.co.uk
78 The Broadway, Debden, Loughton, Essex, IG10 3ST
Insights & newsletter
© lifesmiths 2026. lifesmiths LLP is registered in England and Wales, number OC303848. Registered office: 78 The Broadway, Debden, Loughton, Essex, IG10 3ST. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, firm reference number 221278. General information only. Not personal financial advice. The value of investments can fall as well as rise.