Getting your first client is an exhilarating experience, but it’s also an experience that far too many aspiring entrepreneurs never experience. Sometimes, the difference between an idea dying in the idea stage or going on to change the world is getting that first customer – the first tiny win that creates the momentum to make an idea real. So, we connected with some of the smartest folks we could and asked them to tell us the stories of how they got their initial clients.

Christa Guglielmelli

My first paid client was one of my professors in college. I formed my company, Magnetic Magnificent Events, before I graduated. I never imagined it would grow how it did. This professor was looking for a student leader for a large international conference that her non-profit was hosting. The director of our department (Hospitality department) referred me, and we hit it off! Read more >>>

Seth Hartman

The second post I ever shared on Instagram back in 2016 was of a Fossil watch I’d had since high school. That post ended up getting over 1,000 likes — and to my surprise, Fossil reached out to me directly to collaborate. I was thrilled! Read more >>>

Sierra Rohan

I honestly googled ‘Ambassador programs’ for my favorite brands and applied. I heard back in a few weeks that I was accepted. Glossier was my first paid partnership through affiliate links, they also provided free product to make creating a little easier. Read more >>>

Yohana Sheridan

Since starting my business, my goal has always been to serve my community and help people grow. Given the sensitive nature of what I do and the feelings of embarrassment or shame that often surround it, I felt it was essential to connect with other business owners who could support and complement my work. Read more >>>

Elizabeth Cutright

My very first client was a Brazilian restaurant owned by a woman who wanted to share her family’s traditional recipes with the community. She had the passion, the food, and the vision—but English was her second language, and that made it hard for her to put her story into words. At first, she came to me for a website. Read more >>>

Nesta Wright

Becoming a photographer didn’t start as a business; it started with my daughter, KayLee. She was my first model, always patient, always expressive. I didn’t charge her, of course, just paid in candy. But through her, I learned how to capture emotion, connection, and real life. Her photos helped me build a portfolio without even realizing it. Read more >>>

Anastacia Haye

The journey to my first official client was a moment I’ll never forget. It all started at a networking event — a room full of amazing professionals, and there I was, sharing my passion for empowering women through personal style. I met someone who seemed genuinely intrigued by what I do, but it wasn’t an instant yes. Read more >>>