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.

Sofia Garcia

I always find it easy to ask my family and friends for help, I’m so lucky to be surrounded by the most supportive community. For me, I lean on my friends to help me post about my business, to help me if I’m short staffed or even coming to an event I have planned, but the most they can do for me is giving me feedback to help me improve in my business. Read more>>

Francisco Martinez Jr

I believe that involving friends and family in my real estate business can be both beneficial and challenging. On one hand, they can be a valuable source of referrals and initial clients, given the trust and rapport I share with them. On the other hand, there are important considerations and boundaries to uphold. Read more>>

Earlean McFadden

This is a question that I often get or is brought up when talking about support. I am a strong believer in what is for you is for you, meaning everyone has their own niche and maybe what you are selling or promoting doesn’t align right with them. Support does come in many ways though, whether it’s a repost on social media or simple word of mouth. Of course, while continuing to grow my brand I ask family and friends for support, but never make them feeling like they are obligated to purchase a product or get their hair done by me because of our relationship. Read more>>

Shanice Sample

As for me, I come from a really big family, and for the most part I can say they are supportive majority of the time. I have a variety of events and for the public ones I am always extending the invite, or hiring a few relatives to work events here and there. Depending on what I am in need of for example if I needed an investment I can definitely say there is a small (and I do mean small lol) number of people I would reach out to in this situation. Everyone doesn’t have money to spare, or can see your vision, and I don’t hold that against anyone, so I have been selective and confident that the small group I can go to they are always willing to help in any way they can and I am appreciative of that. Read more>>

Ashley Kelly

What I’ve found in my business is that people actually WANT to support you! I was surprised with what friends, acquaintances, work colleagues and more came out of the woodwork to rally around me. People came out for my opening party, recommended me to friends and family, repost my stories and constantly offer words of encouragement. Every couple of weeks I like to setup my cart inside my home and invite people in. This is twofold; it provides a people a place to come together in a place safe for families, and they can enjoy a beverage from my cart! It’s a great way for me to get feedback, and I am always astounded by the number of people who come and who bring along friends. At times I wonder if my friends feel as though I’m asking them for money, but when I’ve tried to offer free drinks at various events the common response is a wholehearted , “I WANT to support you!!!” Read more>>