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.

Stacy Tucker-davis

Having the support of friends and family in my business journey means the world to me. Their encouragement not only boosts my confidence when I can be in the depths of struggling mentally, but also provides a safety net during challenging times knowing that I have them there to be my biggest cheerleaders when I need it most. Knowing that I have a solid foundation of loved ones who believe in my vision inspires me to push forward, even when obstacles or doubt arise. Their willingness to share my work, provide feedback so I can grow, and celebrate milestones makes this entrepreneurial journey feel less daunting and more fulfilling. Ultimately, their support reminds me that I’m not alone, and that my dreams are shared by those closest to me. Read more>>

Yvonne Saldivar

This one is a tough question, only because I’ve had such mixed feelings about this. My own immediate family is very supportive. So supportive in fact, that my sister asked me to marry her to my brother-in-law of over 30 years. I’ve had very little friend support, and I feel like it’s strange to ask people who should wholeheartedly support you because they want to to do just that. I’ve been blessed though with many vendors who have become friends who bridge the gap for me, and support me, refer me, and provide me with positivity all the way around. My brides and grooms have also been SUPER supportive of my business and have referred me. So it’s really no hard feelings at this point. My couples are my couples ♥ Read more>>

Linda Crawford

What’s that saying? You don’t get what you don’t ask for? Yeah, something like that. When initially starting in my business I had to do the most uncomfortable thing ever- very bluntly calling everyone in my phone to tell them: “I’m in real estate now, and I want to help you and anyone you know buy or sell”. After that first ask, and you’re sure they know, don’t bring it up again. I believe asking for the business and taking yourself seriously enough to ask your friends and family helps them see you as the professional you are. Once you establish yourself as a professional, they begin to see you as that person. It takes years of showing up, and staying consistent before your friends and family begin to trust you. Read more>>

Jessica Madison

I have had a hard time asking friends and family to support my business, which I’m really working on. It’s hard to get rid of the feeling of imposter syndrome, but I have to remember that I love and see value in what I create, so why wouldn’t they? Not only do my friends support me as customers, but they also show up for me during the less fun times like market set ups. I’m learning to be better about asking for help and leaning on them because it’s what I’d want to do for them!  I think I have to draw the line with myself when it comes to giving away my work for to friends and instead offering a discount. On the flip side I also draw the line at my friends giving me large amounts of their time for free. Their time is valuable too and if I need help in the form of support staff then I can hire them at a discount.  I feel lucky for such a strong support system, but I do think striking balance with friendship and business can be difficult. Read more>>

Kate Thurman

I’ve had a hard time asking friends and family for support because I haven’t received much help from anyone in the past, which has conditioned me to find other ways, like working overtime, before asking for assistance. I draw the line when I finally ask for help and it feels like I’m not supported; I’d rather do things on my own after praying. That’s just my story—I’ve always had to fight for what I wanted and needed, often feeling alone in certain aspects of my life. It felt like it was me against the world, especially when my house burned down and my whole family had to live in a hotel, and no one helped. We drained our accounts just to keep a roof over our heads and food on the table, and this experience is one of the reasons I wanted to start a nonprofit. Lately, I’ve seen more support from our family. Read more>>

Bryan Harris

I’m at the point of my career where I don’t ask anyone for help unless there’s a transaction involved. Earlier in my career, I noticed that friends and family were hesitant to support me, now I’ve come to realize that they’re only hesitant because if I fail, they’d rather not be part of that outcome, and of course, if I succeed many will want to feel like they were part of what I’ve been building from the ground up. I lean on myself and study the game and look for innovative ways to strive and find my own audience without the support of friends and family, of course , I have a few friends and family that support no matter what and I am very appreciative of that. Read more>>