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.

Tina Renee

When it comes to asking friends and family to “support my business”, I have one rule – I DON’T! Everyone in my circle is fully aware that I am a Candle Maker, and although I hope and pray that they will have a willingness to promote and support my brand, it is not expected. Read more>>

Sarah Gyger

I feel very strongly in this actually! The people in my life who understand the why behind my business are my closest family and friends and I’ve never had to ask them to share my content on social media or support my business in any way. They just do it! Without being asked. And I think that’s very telling. Read more>>

Melah Miller

I have always been extremely uncomfortable with asking anyone for support. However, social media has allowed me to post about programs I work on and client work. When I quit my job and announced I was consulting full-time, my family and friends were my biggest supporters. For me, it was speaking up about what I was doing and taking credit for what I’ve done. Read more>>

Jessica Baker

Running a business can be hard, especially a small business that is competing with major retail websites. As a small business owner, you spend hours and hours creating products that are unique, beautiful, and hopefully will sell. The problem is competing with large companies that are mass producing low quality products that people buy in droves because they are cheaper. Read more>>

Jessica Chortkoff

I am not too shy about asking friends and family to support what I do. But I have to admit I don’t like to “wear out my welcome” or become what some folks might consider an “opportunist,” that is for sure! For example I will never post my stuff to my friend’s wall without permission! Nobody wants to feel like they are being used as a stepping stone. Read more>>

Karen H. Salup

Well I’m an artist and my business survivies with follower’s that support my social media and visit my studio, this also includes my family and previous collector”s. There is no line in this type of business. The more support you have the better you find your business survival. Viewers stop in love your art, ask to explain what my motivation is, the price and do not purchase your panting. Read more>>