For some, family businesses mean spending more quality time with their families, financial freedom and so much more while for others it feels like a prison sentence. There are so many pros and cons, positives and negatives and so we wanted to create a space for folks who have experiences with family businesses to discuss the pros and cons.

Destiny Monique

Getting into business with family can either hurt or help you, so even thought it’s family be sure to choose the right relatives. Our family business is in real estate, I have been in business with my parents for many years now. We work very well together because my parents are an open book. If I have any questions they don’t sugar coat it, I get the real deal. I know I can rely on my family to tell me the good and bad when it comes to any transaction. For example we just started a short term rental here in Los Angeles and one reason we were able to get up and running so fast is because of the experience my parents have. Although they live in Texas them being able to be available for any questions or unforeseen obstacles as mentors greatly helped the process move forward quicker. Read more>>

Jessica Tadlock

I think family businesses can be amazing or they can turn out horribly. From my experience, my husband and I have two younger children, one being a young teen and the other just under 10. Since they were young they have always seen mommy and daddy as entrepreneurs for the most part since my husband and I both run our own companies and we both help each other within our companies. They get to grow up seeing if you work hard and have a good attitude and good people skills you can be successful running your own business. With that they have slowly learned some different aspects of both companies and although they are still young they have both done age appropriate tasks within our companies (family businesses) and have expressed interest in doing more within them when they are old enough. Read more>>

Michelle Liddell

I firmly believe in the advantages that family businesses offer. My perspective is rather unique, as I played a role in establishing the company alongside my father during my high school years, all the while harboring no intention of becoming its future owner. At that time, my aspiration was to become an elementary school teacher, which I did pursue. However, as life unfolded, I realized that entrepreneurship was a better fit for my life goals. Fast forward to the present, my husband and I are the proud owners of the business, relishing our roles as a husband and wife team steering American Trophies and Awards together. Read more>>

Lukabella & Lacianna Wiebe

Family businesses are a great idea because they strengthen the local economy, offer higher levels of quality, better service , and can deliver exactly what the customer needs. As daunting as a modern economic world full of AI technology sounds some things will forever be essential. We are in the business of selling coffee which is an essential need for a lot of people. Everyone from the banker to the grocer, to the school teacher needs a cup of hot cup of coffee to get their day started. Essential needs are the backbone of economics; this is known as supply and demand. Family businesses have a unique opportunity to see the needs or demands at the micro level; as amazing as the corporations are at keeping America running they aren’t set up for some of the unique micro needs. This dynamic leaves room for family entrepreneurs to supply the demands of local needs. Read more>>

Hiroko Holland

I’ve been familiar with the concept of family business since I was very young. My mom’s side of the family runs a family business in Taiwan and I grew up watching them work hard and play at their factory whenever we visited them. My mom used to tell me how lonely she felt growing up because her parents were always working to make their business successful. My mom instilled the importance of the family time and that will always be my number one priority. This has worked for me and for my family so far and I am lucky to have a supportive family who let me do what I do. I try my best to separate a business time and the family time but I constantly have to watch myself not to mix them together. Read more>>

Rachel Arnold

Family businesses are the heart of small business and shopping local! I’ve always strived to make my kids a part of the process as much as I can. Obviously I’m cautious about them handling hot wax and want the candle labels and such to be straight. But they love putting on warning labels, lids, mixing- that sort of stuff. The kids have worked with me, even been there for markets. They are a huge part of my social media, in stories and reels. After all, they are what we’re working so hard for right? Customers love seeing them, asking them what their favorite scents are. My oldest even loves checking people out on the point of sale system or bagging up their items. So of course if they chose to make candles down the line, I’d be ecstatic. Our company name is our last name, so I’d be happy if they continued the business. Read more>>

Carla Arias

Overall, my family and I have been incredibly blessed, and we are immensely grateful for the journey we’ve embarked on together. I currently serve as the main point of contact and oversee the majority of our teepee setups. However, one significant challenge I’ve encountered is the language barrier and the need for confidence when communicating. English is not my first language, and I often feel a sense of nervousness when reaching out to customers, fearing that my messages may not be fully understood or convey the professionalism I strive for. Read more>>

Dominique Tallungan

I think family businesses are amazing. As a child of immigrants, my mom starting her own business centered around Filipino food has been almost healing for me. Being born and raised in America, I’ve definitely struggled with my identity as an American born Filipino. I was “too Filipino” to be American yet too American” to be Filipino. After taking over my moms business, I’ve found a new love for my culture through the food we create. This business has been almost like an immigrant love letter from my mom to my siblings and me; by passing down her traditions and culture, it’s shaped who I am as a Filipino-American woman. Read more>>

Kimberlee Blocker

Running a family business can be both challenging and rewarding. As a small business co-owner who shares ownership with my older brother I can see where things can often go wrong in family business. In order to be successful you have to over communicate, allow room for creative differences, offer grace, express boundaries and ensure everyone is on the same page regarding the ultimate goal. If you go into business treating family anything other than team member things can go awry. There has to be a level of respect on both ends regardless of who is the elder or their position in the family and there also has to be trust and transparency. Read more>>