Expert Guidance in living a
Budget-Based Lifestyle
Shari Evans, AFC®, MQFP® is the founder of Budget Based Lifestyle, where she helps individuals and families build realistic, sustainable money habits rooted in everyday life. Guided by her tagline—Practical education. Intentional living. Progress over perfection.—she delivers a compassionate, judgment-free approach that turns financial goals into achievable steps. A retired U.S. Army Officer, Iraq and Afghanistan veteran, military spouse, and mother of two, Shari brings both lived experience and professional expertise to her work, helping clients move forward with a Budget Based Lifestyle.
The Mission
Budget Based Lifestyle empowers individuals and families through practical financial education, intentional budgeting, and sustainable financial habits that support confidence, stability, and long-term wellness.
Values
- Budgeting Is a Lifestyle A budget is more than numbers on paper — it’s a reflection of priorities, goals, responsibilities, and the life you are trying to build.
- Financial Wellness Should Feel Realistic We believe financial success is not about perfection or unrealistic rules. It’s about building practical habits that work in everyday life and support long-term stability.
- Education Creates Confidence Financial knowledge should be clear, approachable, and actionable. We are committed to helping clients understand the “why” behind their financial decisions so they can move forward with confidence.
- Growth Happens One Step at a Time Small, consistent actions create lasting change. We value progress, accountability, and sustainable financial habits over quick fixes.
- People Matter More Than Numbers Every financial journey is personal. We strive to create a supportive, judgment-free space where clients feel respected, encouraged, and empowered.
- Service and Community Matter Through education, outreach, professional involvement, and community engagement, we are committed to helping others grow financially and personally.
- We Believe in Lifelong Learning Teaching, learning, and growing are at the heart of Budget Based Lifestyle. We believe continuous growth strengthens individuals, families, and the financial counseling profession.
Company Timeline
Discover the key milestones in our company's journey
2014
The journey of helping others with financial literacy begins2017
Earned Accredited Financial Counselor, AFC ® certification2018
AFCPE Exam Writing Committee MemberServing Corporate Clients through EAP sessionsLaunched Blog (iTitheFirst.com) Serving military clients2020
Serving Clients through the COVID-19 Yellow Ribbon-Wells Fargo Initiative2021
Volunteer Work with the AFCPE Newsletter Task Force2024
Military Qualified Financial Planner MQFP ® Exam Committee