There are so many varied experiences when it comes to starting a business. From what we’ve seen, there is no one, right answer. Some people found success by writing a business plan, spending months or years perfecting the idea and only then approaching their first client while others found their first client before they had even settled on a name for their business. Below, you’ll find the stories of how entrepreneurs from across industries and markets found their first clients.

Diandra Brooks

Back in 2020, I opened my business, Photos by Diandra LLC. Before I officially opened shop, my first clients were family and friends that truly believed in me. Some of my close friends had reached out to me about taking their family photos. Read more>>

Haley Bauler

Before I began creating UGC, I was (and still am) a SAHM. I tried all of the different “make money from home” ideas that you could find online and could never find something realistic that would truly work with having 2 kids at home with me. Read more>>

Niyyah Ruscher-Haqq

I’d been making and gifting candles, soap, and skin care for years… even decades… before I made my first sale. A friend of my sister’s had tried some of my soap, and was super passionate about handmade soap. She asked if I could design an oat milk soap, and we planned it out together! Read more>>

Tiffany Qualls

My first client found me on Facebook actually in a makeup underdog group. She was looking for a makeup artist for a professional photo shoot. I was so happy that chose me. I was always practicing on myself but to finally be noticed made my day. I think I text and told everyone that I have a client other than a friend or family member. Read more>>

Brian McClelland

When I restarted my video career in 2012, I got my feet wet creating free music videos for friends in the bands Bruiser Queen and Spectator. Using an entry-level Canon DSLR and some cheap work lights from Home Depot, we had fun being creative and I was able to get some credits for my CV and show what I could do. Read more>>

Renata Johnson

Getting my first client wasn’t as easy as it seemed. Many other travel agents have support of their families and friends. Everyone I knew was booking their own travel and looking right over me. After that, I decided to share my business everywhere! I took to Instagram and a customer with a mutual friend reached out and booked a hotel room. I was happy but I didn’t get a large commission. But I was so happy to get my first sale! Read more>>

My very first big client was with Hydroxycut. I’ll never forget walking into the studio not knowing what was really going on and, very nervous. One of my best friends had asked me to come assist them to be the lead hairstylist so I did. Read more>>

Donna McGovern

I was in the events industry doing very large sacle events like The Heisman Trophy Dinner, Macy’s Day Parade and Fashion Shows but had no real connection to the Principals. I decided to do what I considered smaller events, 75 people or less to try and build relationships with the Principals. Read more>>