There is often more than one right answer, and this seems to be particularly true for the question of whether folks should lean on family and friends for support with the brands. Your circumstances, relationships and other factors can determine what’s right for you – but we wanted to get a conversation going on the topic as it’s something that comes up often in our chats with entrepreneurs and creatives in the community.

Danny Matthews

I think as a small business owner asking friends and family to support is one of the key elements to getting the business off of the ground. When I first opened Dark Rose Club (barbershop) my friends were the first to know about it and to come in to support. They then tell their friends and acquaintances and that just adds to the list of people who are trying to support your endeavor. Read more>>

Brandon Joyner

Asking friends and family for support in a business venture can be complex, to say the least. For us, a business like Shortwave Kitsch requires a certain amount of support from friends and family. There are not only people who are needed to read the lines on stage or run the box office or make sure that the lights are turned on when you need them, but you also need people to show up and watch. With SWK also being a podcast, you’ll hope they’ll also be willing to listen and share with their friends and extended family. Read more>>

Sheneil Tillis

My family & close friends are a tremendous support to our business and we are so grateful. However we would never hound anyone to purchase anything from us or to share my posts as it is just tacky .Our awesome work & products speak for themselves. Read more>>

Marsha Badger

When I first launched my affirmation decks, my friends and family rallied up to support me. Initially it felt great because in the moment I thought I had an endless support system. I quickly realized that my friends and family are just the beginning of my success, and they’re not my target audience. Read more>>

Derrick Murphy

To be honest, my family & friends have been my biggest supporters….From my days of playing basketball up until this point has been nothing but love! I think they support me the way they do because I have never been the person that has asked for a hand out or very little favors. In addition, my drive, work ethic & overall growth from the idea I presented to my core family & friends, has made them taken me more serious which has had everyone all very proud of me! Read more>>

Paige Caputo

Growing up, my parents always supported whatever I wanted to do with my life. After high school, I went to cosmetology school and worked in a salon. Then I decided I wanted to go to college and ended up working in a corporate job for 5 years in Chicago after I graduated from GVSU. Read more>>

Tracey Timmons

I was fortunate that I didn’t have to officially “ask” for support. When I told my partner my plans for how I wanted to move forward with my business, he instinctively knew that I would need help, financially and physically. Instead of making me ask, he would say, “what do we need to do for x,y,z?” Like a lot of black women, I most likely would not have asked anyone for help. I would have tried to do it on my own and struggled mightily. I feel like it’s okay to ask for help from family or friends if they express an interest in supporting. Read more>>