Getting your first client is an exhilarating experience, but it’s also an experience that far too many aspiring entrepreneurs never experience. Sometimes, the difference between an idea dying in the idea stage or going on to change the world is getting that first customer – the first tiny win that creates the momentum to make an idea real. So, we connected with some of the smartest folks we could and asked them to tell us the stories of how they got their initial clients.

Kely Yetzer

I remember the day vividly when I received my first permanent makeup client who wasn’t a friend, family member, or a referral. It was a moment filled with excitement, fear and a sense of accomplishment for me. Read more>>

Adrienne Bland

In 2014, my best friend came to me with an amazing opportunity. She asked me if I could create a company trailer for her business, Authentic Noise. Read more>>

Branden Adams

In high school as a member of the yearbook staff I was also the designated photographer. For several years I would cover school events, classroom activities, anything we could justify making a spread for. Read more>>

Angela Simpson

My first client was my cousin Robin. I started styling my own hair first and I got really good at it. After that, I wanted to see if I could style someone else and who other than my best friend and cousin Robin. Read more>>

Siana Aldenderfer

Amorita launched in 2019 with no real game plan. I had the vision, I had the product but was unsure of where to start. By chance, a friend of a friend had told me about a market for female BIPOC business owners that was starting in Santa Barbara, called Mujeres Makers Market. Read more>>