The Smits Welch Group

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
250 Monroe Avenue NW
Floor 06
Grand Rapids MI 49503
(616) 242.8319
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We work with a select group of executives and senior leadership, giving them the opportunity to access some of the best resources in the industry. Our belief is by building a relationship with our clients and being intentional with their goals we can maximize our resources and plan efficiently to help meet their needs.
The Smits Welch Group
Welcome
At The Smits Welch Group, we seek to build lasting relationships by understanding each client as both an individual and an investor. We take the time to learn what truly matters—your priorities, your family, and your vision for the future. With that insight, we craft customized financial strategies tailored to your unique goals. Our commitment extends across generations, serving as a trusted financial ally that families can rely on today and for years to come.
Recognition
David Smits
Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor
Forbes "Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams", 2025-2026
(Published annually in January. Rankings based on data as of March 31 of prior year.)
Show more recognition
The Smits Welch Group
Forbes "Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams", 2025-2026
(Published annually in January. Rankings based on data as of March 31 of prior year.)
About Us
Philosophy

Your financial future deserves thoughtful, proactive guidance—far beyond basic investment advice. That's why we take the time to truly understand you: your family, your unique financial landscape, and the priorities that matter most. Through genuine one‑on‑one collaboration, we work alongside you to design a personalized financial strategy that reflects your goals and supports your long‑term success.

Meet Our Team
David Smits,

CFP®, CRPC™

Senior Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor
616.774.4219
P. Craig Welch IV
Vice President, Senior Financial Advisor
616.242.8319
Nikki Herring
Wealth Management Client Associate
616.774.4247
Caroline Gentry
Officer, Wealth Management Client Associate (FP)
616.774.4212
Additional Resources
The following specialists do not make securities recommendations. Please contact your Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor if you have questions about how a specialist might be able to assist you.
Nicholas A. Beilfuss
Wealth Strategies Advisor
Katelyn McMiller
Wealth Management Banking Specialist
Merrill
About Merrill

Bringing fresh perspectives to your financial life

The financial decisions you make today can help determine the future you build for yourself and your family. Carving a clear path forward starts with connecting your life and finances. A Merrill advisor provides access to the investing insights of Merrill and banking capabilities of Bank of America to help you make informed decisions as you pursue your goals.

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Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and the CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.
Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™, CRPC™, and the CRPC™ logo are certification marks or registered certification marks of The College for Financial Planning Institutes Corp. in the United States.