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.

Tammie Polk

This is a double-edged sword because it is sometimes hard for friends and family to see us past who THEY know us to be. I will honestly say that, as an author, speaker, and coach, more strangers support me than friends and family. I’m sure that’s true for most and I also know there are several reasons behind that. Read more>>

Samantha Billotte

When starting your own business you always hope for friends and family around you to support you but that isn’t always the case. Asking the people you trust the most to support something you’ve worked so hard for can be a very vulnerable moment. Thankfully my immediate family and friends have been supportive but there has always been a lack of support from others. Read more>>

Dayanna Sutton

When it comes to asking family and friends to support me I never have to ask. I’ve been blessed with a strong team of people in my life who believe in me and want to see me win. Read more>>

Rebecca Gast

As a relatively newer professional photographer, the onset of your business relies on asking friends and family for support, recommendations, purchases, events, etc. I have a difficult time accepting payment from friends/family and would prefer to support them gratis. Of course, this is not a great business model and sometimes I have to bite my tongue and accept their support. It’s difficult but it’s all done out of love. I am grateful I have the support of so many. Read more>>

Brianna Tellas

Dealing with family can be a touchy subject especially in regards to feeling supported. Before I started my business I’ve always heard your friends and family aren’t going to be your customers. Over the last year and a half I have learned there is truth in that statement. Personally I do have some family and friends that purchase products from, talk my business up, and share my business posts. It can be disappointing feeling like your family and friends don’t support your business because you feel like their supposed to be your cheerleaders and want you to succeed. Read more>>

Sarita Day

I think for any small business to become successful, those people need the support of family and friends. A simple share on social media can make all the difference. Read more>>

Ivana Benton

Since day 1 I have always had a great and phenomenal support system behind me. I am a wife, mother and a business owner. When I say a support system its not just with my business its all around. My family supports me and stands behind me 100%. And to my clients….my clients kept me and keep me booked and busy. And honestly that’s why I keep going. Majority of my clients have been supporting me since I was waxing in my 2 bedroom apartment. They were consistent and kept me busy. Read more>>

Janae Marie

Well, this one is definitely a tough topic to touch upon. It is sometimes hard to get family and friends on board about what you are doing. In the beginning, we want friends and family to support us. We seek their validation. But unfortunately , this just doesn’t happen always. There may be a few of the people we’re close to who support us, but it isn’t always. Read more>>