What’s your view on asking friends and family to support your brand? We asked members of the community to open up and share their views on this controversial topic. Check out some highlights below.

Rena Blank

I definitely have asked my friends and family for help. My fiance is basically an “unpaid intern”. He come to pop ups with me, help me unload the car, set up tables, etc. My mom and sister also come to pop ups and help me out a lot of the time. It truly is a group effort here. Read more>>

Kevin Jacques

I think all small, family-owned businesses start with asking for support from friends and family. I’ve found that during the testing phase of products, they are the most honest with their feedback because they want you to succeed just as much as you do. It is helpful to get that feedback as oftentimes, there are different tastes that they link, and in our world, we try to please as many people as possible….keep things very moderate, not too sweet, not too spicy…..because our goal is to always Take Your Taste Buds to School! Read more>>

Natty Baca

Asking my friends/Family for support was something I didn’t really have to do. Everyone was so willing to support me from the start. The consistency through the years was tough, but I have some of the same people to this day still purchasing my merch. I’ve been very blessed with my support system Read more>>

Amanda Andrews

I have maintained my independence from my family and friends, and I continue to do so in my business ventures; however I work closely with my brother, a graphic designer, in designing my brand. I am highly conscious of his time and creative process, ensuring our collaboration remains efficient and respectful of his expertise. I am grateful for my family and friend’s support who have been there to listen to me share my successes and vent my frustrations. Read more>>

Ce’Nyia Howard

This topic use to be very touchy for me , i’’m glad i grew out of that phase. I feel that you shouldn’t have to ask your friends or family to support you in pursuing your dreams or starting a business. Support comes in different forms; liking , sharing , posting, telling others and so on. Read more>>

Lauren Golick

I used to have this thought that asking your friends or family for help or support was kind of, I don’t know, taboo..? I was never one to ask for help, and I do still struggle with that sometimes. But in the case of my artwork, being primarily a commission-based artist, I don’t mind asking friends or family to follow me on Instagram, or to perhaps put a good word out if they know of anyone who may be interested in having a portrait done. Read more>>

Victor Jaramillo

Family support in my business venture, or in any other endeavor for that matter, is fundamental. It was my wife who pushed me to pursue it. Without her support, it would have been impossible. I believe that when you have a strong family structure, or, as in my case, when everything revolves around my family, everything flows better. It may sound like a very traditional concept, but I believe in it. Read more>>

B Anderson

One of the most difficult parts of my journey has been, to ask anyone to support me, especially friends and family. I feel like love and support is essential for growth and success. Knowing that the people who love me most are in my corner is an added confidence booster. Read more>>

Mishal Fanolua

At first I was very nervous to start sharing because I didn’t want to seem like my only intentions were to make money. However, my friends and family have been more supportive than I could have ever imagined. I can always count on them to share, refer and be the first ones to purchase. Read more>>