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.

Salimah Scott

The support of family and friends goes a long way when building a small business. They were literally my foundation when starting Urban GLŌ. After giving my family and friends samples of my creations and receiving such good feedback, I decided to create 3 solid fragrances and form my LLC in 2019. When I launched Urban GLŌ online in April 2020, I had no problem asking my family and friends for their support and I was so happy to have received it in abundance! Read more>>

Micalah Matthews

Asking friends and family to support your business can be tricky. Although you’d love for your close circle to be first in line for your dreams, it doesn’t always turn out that way. I personally find that in my line of work it’s much easier to “show and prove” than ask for support outright, which initially was frustrating I’ll admit. But as time has gone on, I realize that it’s more important that I have the support of those that believe in my work, not for who I am, but for what I can do. Read more>>

Keith Malin

I will always be in favor of supporting small businesses. As a small business owner, I understand what it takes to start and run your own company. I also know there is more value to be had in the services I provide as opposed to a larger corporation. I believe friends and family should want to support your business, my business. I don’t believe its appropriate to ask for discounts simply because they are a friend or family member. Read more>>

Holly McDonald

I feel that it is very important to ask friends and family to support my business. In the residential real estate industry, most of my clients are making very personal decisions. As a friend I take it very seriously that I understand their needs and listen to their concerns, etc. However I do draw the line at helping them with services that I am not well-versed in. For example, on occasion someone will ask for help in a market that is outside my range of expertise. In that case, I am happy to connect them with another professional who I trust will help them better than I could. Read more>>