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.

Ali Waller

Since the beginning of my career as an artist I have always asked for community involvement. My hope is to always create for the greater good. Whether that means I lead projects involving over 1,300 survivors of sexual assault, a small group of former inmates transitioning out of prison, or a solo project meant to stir conversation- my hope is to always provide spaces that inspire change. Read more>>

Shanita Brown

I have experienced having a hard time getting friends and family to support my businesses. I don’t let that stop me from reaching for my goals. I once heard a millionaire say “Don’t worry about your friends and family supporting you, just focus on everyone else and make them love you and the rest will follow. Read more>>

JoAnna Carraway

When it comes to having a business we always expect our family and friends to be our biggest supporters. Since, I’ve been having my business I can honestly say I’ve had some of my good friends supporting me since day 1. Word of mouth, shares, likes, or purchasing items its all support and I’m so grateful for it all. Read more>>

Stephanie McClellan

The best way to spread the word about your new business is to ask family and friends to help you spread the word. They can share it on any social media, texting their friends, and buying from you. Read more>>

Rona Bachour

To all Family, Friends, Neighbors and Tampa community over all, your support means a lot. Every Purchase, Share, recommendations and Shout Out helps my small business. By helping this small business you will also help us to continue being a “Proud Sponsor of Deer Park Elementary PTA” Read more>>

Kristina Orido

When I launched my business in 2018, my family and friends were extremely supportive! We hosted a launch event with to celebrate, and I believe only 2 people were not able to attend out of 50 who were invited! We sold out of several lash styles and gain 2 clients (still clients to this day) from our launch event. Read more>>

Trina Cheeks

My friends and family support me to the highest power so I feel there’s no need for me to draw the line with my biggest supporters. My family supports without me having to ask and they are my support system through all of this. I have friends/classmates who I’ve known since high school who support my business and encourage me when it comes to my business. Read more>>

Xavier Harrington

I can remember how scary it was starting off at the beginning of my photography journey. I had the vision, the hunger, and I invested in the time and tools I needed to help me but I felt like that was the easy part. The hard part was tryin to figure out how to market myself. Read more>>

Sharletta Hanks

This is a question I have received on several occasions asking “How do I ask my friends and family to support my business”. When starting a business you have to first know in your mind and heart this is your personal goal no matter who chooses to support you or not. Read more>>

Eniyah C.

Typically I don’t ask for support. I feel as though support should come naturally. Some may support and some may not. I feel as asking for support isn’t good because, if someone isn’t already supporting then, maybe they don’t find interest in my business. Read more>>