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.

Ruby Hoko

For Artists, having support from your peers, especially in the beginning of your journey, is the equivalent to jet fuel. At least that’s what it felt like for me. My love for my craft was enough to propel me forward, but with encouragement from friends and family thrown into the mix, it had such an energizing effect on my performance and my will to keep pushing when I’d run into obstacles. That support, for every artist, is the wind in their sails! Read more>>

Randi-Lee Bowslaugh

I ask all of my family and friends to support my business. They are my support system in life, and that translates into business. I don’t expect them to all buy my books (times can be challenging), but there are always free ways to support: subscribing to social media, sharing posts, being a beta reader and more. If they do read my books, I always ask them to write a review on Amazon and GoodReads. Read more>>

Taty Streetman

As a photographer, asking friends and family for support in your business is a delicate balance that requires sensitivity, boundaries, and clear communication. I feel like it’s natural to want the people closest to you to appreciate and contribute to your passion, but at the same time, it’s essential to maintain healthy relationships. Photographers are, after all, artists, and not everyone may vibe with your artistic style – and that’s totally cool. Read more>>

Larnett Glenn

Asking friends and family to support your business can be hard but, if those same people are constantly asking your advice and view you as a trusted professional then they should be OK with you asking them to support your business. Read more>>

Walter Young

My experience with asking family members to support has been great. The people I have to asked to help get started were always helpful, whether it was with referrals, word of mouth testimonies, or just let me use there car as a test run. The support has been nothing short of amazing! Read more>>

Robby Solis

I have never really had much of a problem asking friends and family to support my business due in large part to the fact that I am never shy to support my friend’s businesses or ventures. That said, I have found that at times it can seem a bit excessive when I need to continue to post stuff on social media. My internal alarm goes off and in my mind I feel like they are saying to themselves, “Here we go again!”. Read more>>

Ciara Perrone

In my journey with Brinn, I’ve witnessed the incredible power of friends and family support in various aspects. Brinn took its initial steps through two successful rounds of crowdfunding, both of which were predominantly fueled by the backing of friends and family. Their belief in the project not only provided the financial support necessary but also served as a foundational pillar for Brinn’s inception. Read more>>

Alley McCall

I believe asking family and friends to support your business is the crucial first step to success. After all, they are the ones who believe in your mission or endeavor as much as you do. For me personally, my inner circle have been a part of my journey from the very beginning. I remember sitting at a baby shower of all places and looking over at my mother and telling her ‘I want to write a novel’. Read more>>

Kareema Weaver

Family and friends’ support is crucial and can make an impactful difference on your road to success. I only shared the news with my close friends and family when I began blogging. I rarely advertised on my social media accounts and did not require or ask my friends and family to support me. Read more>>