About five years ago I invested in a tuxedo – shirt, tie, studs, shoes – the whole nine yards. Formal wear is not something I need often, but when I do it’s convenient to have it right there, in my closet, ready to go. And with no more tuxedo rentals, the tux has proven to be a worthwhile wardrobe investment.

I recently pulled out the tux and tried it on in anticipation of an upcoming event. Something was different. Actually, it was me. My commitment to a healthier, more active regimen was paying off, but the tuxedo was going to need some adjustments. I went to go see the tailor.

It’s a good reminder for us and for our clients. Call it, if you will, a first principle of estate planning: What fits you now won’t fit you forever.

Wine, flowers, chocolate. A candlelit dinner, a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park. There are so many ways to say “I love you.”  While it may not ring as romantic as a Sinatra love song, estate planning can also be a real expression of love and devotion. In fact, there’s even a special name for one plan: the “I Love You” will.

I had the recent pleasure and privilege of attending the Heckerling Institute on Estate Planning in Orlando, January 12 to 16. Not surprisingly, the event was outstanding and demonstrated once again why Heckerling has become the national forum for estate planning professionals.