One of the most important things an aspiring entrepreneur can do is validate their idea by finding a client. For first time entrepreneurs, this can often feel intimidating and so we’re hoping that by sharing stories of how others before them have found their first client we can make it feel less daunting. Below, you’ll find the stories of some incredibly bright entrepreneurs and business owners sharing how they secured their first client.

Kim Schwarz

I started my organizing business, Live Love Organize, in 2002. After getting comfortable working with friends and family members, I posted my organizing services on Craigs List. Read more>>

Ta’Seon (Dj) Johnson

I am blessed to say that all of my businesses had one of my family members as a first client! They allowed me to test out products and different recipes while giving honest opinions about their experience, I couldn’t dare leave them out of this question. Read more>>

Samantha Bezich

I started my business in June 2023, but I did not make my first sale until February 2024. The clients I currently had were either helping me build my freelance portfolio, trade for services, or for the accounts I was managing at my full-time job as a marketing professional for a large company. Read more>>

Dan Hanley

When I think of my first client, I must remember all of the work I did to prepare for introducing Altrui to the world. A lot of time and energy went into creating my name, my website, and perfect copy to describe who we are as a company and how we can make a difference for clients. Read more>>

Economy Jackson

I have worked for several non-profit organizations, providing services for low to moderate income individuals and families. One day, I received a phone call asking if I was interested in conducting a training. Read more>>

Felicity Buie

I received my first paid client while attending cosmetology school here in San Antonio, Texas. My first client was a friend I had met through my husband while he was in the Air Force stationed in Spokane, Washington. Read more>>

Julia Wong

I remember sharing part of my story about being stuck in a toxic narcissistic relationship. That same night, I recall the video going viral. It was then that I realized I wasn’t alone; many others found it relatable. Read more>>

Dean Karatas

After years of experience in fine dining restaurants and as a private caterer and chef in bustling cities like NYC and Los Angeles, I made the decision to relocate to Palm Springs and open a small, grab-and-go style restaurant. Read more>>

Gina Jokilehto

When I first launched Shi Shi, it was in a time where print advertising was a crucial part of marketing a business. I took a leap of faith and spent probably more than I should have running a full page ad with The Knot Ohio magazine for the full year. Read more>>

Brittany Richardson

As a person who had just graduated back in December 2023. It was never recommended to go solo right after graduation and passing state board. Read more>>

Allison “Ally Bee” Findeiss

From the moment Ally Bee Design sprouted in the summer of 2013, it’s been a whirlwind of creativity and discovery! I was still a college student at University of Miami transitioning from the School of Architecture to School of Communications major. Read more>>