Do you run or work for a family business? If so, we’d love to hear from you for our family business series. In this series, you’ll find insights, stories and a discussion of the pros and cons of family businesses.

Sarah Stokes

Family businesses are a unique blend of deep trust, high expectations, and sometimes, complicated dynamics. I spent six years working in my family’s business, wearing many hats—Office Manager, Compliance Officer, Reporting Authority, Loan Originator, Loan Processor, and, my favorite role, Business Development. During that time, I gained invaluable experience in every aspect of running a company, from operations to client relations to growth strategies. Read more>>

TiAnna DeGarmo

I grew up on jobsite’s in the 80’s running around absorbing the aridness and possibility that is a new home under construction. As the eldest of 4 children, I was the first one to be put to work at the age of 13 working alongside my father and his crew. Our family business was MKT Custom Homes. “MKT” stands for Megan, Katie, and TiAnna, all of the Schacht family kids (established before my brother was born). Growing up in a very small town in rural Illinois I quickly learned the power of word of mouth and how you choose to show up in your community directly impacts the success of our family business. I wasn’t just TiAnna, I was Hans Schacht’s daughter. Read more>>

Barbara Kavchok

I deeply believe in family-driven businesses because I am a product of one. My mother began her career as a bridal gown designer, and I grew up immersed in the industry. As a young woman, I initially chose a different path, pursuing Fine Arts instead. I earned a BFA in Illustration and worked in that field for a time, but eventually, I found my way back to fashion—my first love. Sometimes, we resist what we instinctively know to be true. My initial reluctance was part of my journey to carve out my own path, only to realize that my true purpose was always there: to create art and fashion that inspire others to become the best version of themselves. Read more>>