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.

Julie Luehrs

As a photographer asking friends and family for support is how my business became the success it is today. What better way to advertise than having family and friends rave about you and your work. And share their photos and experience with everyone in their circle of friends and co-workers. Word of mouth marketing is a powerful and essential strategy for build trust, increase customer loyalty and drive growth to your business. So yes, I am very grateful to all my family and friends for not only trusting me with all their photography needs but for also sharing my work with everyone they know. Read more>>

Kirsten Bradley

I have no problem asking friends and family to support my business. A lot of them do it on their own, which I greatly appreciate! Obviously purchasing items from me is the best support but even a simple share of my social media posts or a recommendation to someone looking for cookies and/or cakes. That is the best support to me! Read more>>

Gheri

Taking the leap to start a business or expand is exciting. It was a dream come true to see the birth of my ideas come to fruition after years and months of hard work. But along with the excitement comes the uncertainty of juggling multiple tasks and making decisions that shape the present and future. While passion and determination are keys to drive the ship, my family and friends have been my anchor while I navigated starting a side hustle that has now turned into a full-time eyebrow focused service and product based business. Read more>>

Laura Marie Kaiser

With my Simply Impeccable Fudge small business, I find it very easy and organic to ask friends and family to support me. I might give away a lot of samples to get people hooked. LOL – I recently had a vendor artisan faire and shared it often on my socials. Having a gluten-free kitchen really helps everyone enjoy it as well. So many friends came and purchased treats to support me! Food is definitely one of my love languages, so I really enjoy the creation of each small batch. I offer nationwide shipping during late fall and winter, and that’s an even better way to ensure that people can share treats with their friends and family afar as well! Fun story, a cousin recently asked if I could make a roasted pecan dark chocolate, which is “not on the menu,” and I was thrilled to fulfil his request. The beauty of a small business is that you have control. I price each fudge the same to accomodate special requests! Read more>>