What’s your view on asking friends and family to support your brand? We asked members of the community to open up and share their views on this controversial topic. Check out some highlights below.

LaKendra Reed

One of the greatest blessings in starting my business was the amount of support I received from family and friends. They have consistently supported by reposting images, sharing my contact information, sending inspiration photos, as well as, regularly booking sessions. Read more>>

Keisha Alicea

In the beginning of my Career as a cookie artist, the support of my friends and family was basically my main connection to getting future orders. They were going to be my first employees even if the didn’t know it yet . I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by friends and family members that did not ask for a discount or for any free product. They actually helped me by purchasing and telling their friends all about The Gentile Baker. It fills my heart with Joy even up to this day because that shows me how much they believe in me and my business. Read more>>

Carly Scaduto

I couldn’t do what I do without the support of my family and friends. My husband and children generously support me and allow me to take the time on the weekends to follow my passion. My parents often watch the kids when I photo shoot schedule conflicts with other activities. So many of my friends and former colleagues have trusted me with their family photos. So many people in my network have recommended me or referred me to their networks. I’m so grateful for all the support I have received along the way! Read more>>

Christopher Ingram

Starting any new business venture can be scary, especially as a first time entrepreneur, so support from friends and family can go a long way. In this social media era, support from friends & family can is as easy as a: share/like/repost . Having friends and family make purchases from you will help you tighten your process for new first time customers. A common mistake I see new business owners make is mistaking friend and family purchases for ” success.” Read more>>

Brittany Ballinger

This is a topic I feel like is needed but isn’t often discussed or when so it causes tension a bit of uncomfortability because it’s almost like a culture issue where I’m from. I feel that being a African American coming from a small city where there’s alot of hate and competition. Everything is popularity based it’s who you know versus what you have. For example you can have the best food in town but because they don’t know you or because you’re who you are they wont give your resturant a try. Read more>>

Jacklin Lenis

this is too important for a business to work and be successful, I have had the support of my family, we are a team from whom can take care of my children …. who can accompany me during the party setup, when I am too tired and You still have a job, when things are not going well, in all these moments I have had the support of my family… especially my brother. I hope that every business owner can have a family like mine Read more>>

Chef Ashley Dominique

From my personal experience your family and “friends” won’t be the first to support you. Your first supporters or believers will most likely come from people who aren’t related to you or have any personal ties to you…..and be perfectly fine with that! You have to separate your feelings from the business. Don’t focus on who isn’t supporting you focus only on who is. The ones who aren’t will eventually hop on board. You’ll just be in the position to let them or not at that time. Read more>>

Veronica Andrews

I was so nervous at first to tell friends/family I finally wanted to start my own event planning/wedding planning business. I’m not sure why I was so nervous! The first person who made me realize I needed to open my own was my best friend Brenda. After working her wedding as her Day of Coordinator, she received a lot of compliments from family and friends regarding how attentive I was, caring, detail oriented, and on top of things. She then said “Babe, I don’t know why you don’t do this for a living,” I thought about it and finally asked myself the same; “Why didn’t I do this for a living?” Read more>>

Bianca Richardson

My goal is never to hold too many expectations for friends and family, but always grateful when their support is given. This allows less disappointments and genuine happiness when they can and do offer love and support. As a wife and mother of four kids I understand how hectic our daily lives can be and we’re all doing the best we can. Read more>>

Morgan Powell

Morgan’s Mini Cheesecakery has remained majority a one woman show. However, I cannot take all the credit. I have no problem asking family and friends for help. I am extremely blessed to have a great support system. I have been partaking in more festivals, pop ups and events that have required more man power than I can handle alone. My go to is always my family and friends before I decide to hire help. Read more>>

Simone Daley

When starting a business its natural to reach out to your friends/family for support. Whether it be sharing a social media post, liking your content, or referring and using your services. However, the support may or may not be what you expected. My advice in regards to this is don’t take it personal nor let it get you discouraged. 9 times of 10, your friends and family are not even your target audience. The majority of your support and clients will more than likely be strangers. Just stay consistent, continue to grow and learn about your business and the industry, work on perfecting your craft and your brand, and everything will work itself it. Read more>>