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.

Jordan Rhea

I’ve known for a long time that asking friends/family to support my business is pointless. Not because they wouldn’t or oblige but because I needed to build and serve much more people to run my company. I focused on my audience and certainly didn’t depend on any friends/family. If I’m keeping it real, friends/family can only purchase your products or services so many times (depending on what you do) – they aren’t likely to be return clients or professional marketers that can help sustain your business in the long-run. Just being honest! Read more>>

Cooper Westerman

Starting out in portrait photography was a mix of passion and fear. The biggest fear was how was this going to support itself? Money is the only way to keep the lights on, but I was really just focussed on a creative career that allowed me to make art, tell stories and overall make people happy. In early 2022 I made a shift to something I am very passionate about. This was going to be a way I could do it all and the fear of making enough went out the window. I started to focus on our natural land around the world and how we can help conserve the beauty and species that we share the earth with. Read more>>

Caroline Vanderlip

There is nothing harder than conceiving of and starting a business from an idea than asking your friends and family to support it. So many new businesses fail so the odds are that the investment will not be repaid and yet entrepreneurs are forever hopeful and enthusiastic and friends and family are usually the only source of initial funds. I think it is really important that a frank and honest conversation is had about the likelihood of success and the need to separate the investment from the personal relationship. Read more>>

Vanessa Valencia

I’ve learned that support comes in many ways. My family and friends have always supported me by word of mouth, promoting my business on their social media. Support doesn’t need to be in the form of money. I don’t expect my family and friends to buy from me just because they know me. I appreciate all the help I’ve gotten along the way. I appreciate the likes, shares and shout outs. Read more>>

Avery Jones

When I tell you, I am so blessed to have the support I have from family and friends! Having that village to support you is the most amazing feeling ever! Read more>>