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.

Richelle Nassos

Thoughts on a family business – what a loaded question. LOL I grew up watching my parents work together, then my brother; and only sibling started his own business and it just seemed normal to start my own with my soul mate. All of our 3 boys at one time or another have helped us out in our family business as well. It takes a strong couple to be able to work together and we have been blessed. It isn’t always easy; I would not be transparent if I told you that was the case. But with great determination, drive and a lot of faith in the Big Man upstairs…all things are possible. Peter and I have been working together successfully for almost 18 years now; where has the time gone? Read more>>

Andrea Artenstein

Working together has added a whole new layer to our relationship as a family in a very special way. We’ve been able to recognize all of our collective talents and how each of us can bring something really specific to add to the greater success of Java Earth. We all have our own niche, by brother Alex is front of house, my dad is the numbers person and my mom is in charge of the food component/creative side while I focus on marketing and branding. The whole process has formed a unique bond that I feel very lucky to have. Read more>>

Ariel Osbey

Serenity Housekeeping Services is a family business. I started this company to honor my grandmother who was a housekeeper for over 30 years. I have 2 children now, who I hope to pass the reigns to once they get older. My mother, who although she isn’t a housekeeper has been the biggest help to my business as she runs the HR department and she’s the one who had me up early Saturday mornings washing walls and baseboards, ha! My company would not exist if were not for family. Read more>>