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Business Showers: Giving New Businesses a Strong Start!

by Sheila Farr

Early in 2022, I read a quote by Elon Musk that read something like, "Instead of Baby showers, let’s host a Business shower. When a friend starts a business, we all come together, celebrate them & bring resources to their business." That excited me, and I thought it was such a wonderful idea. I thought it would be great if we could help new businesses get a few things to help them get a stronger start in marketing and growing their business! This idea was genius...and I wanted to do do it on the Gulf Coast!

First, however, I wanted to make sure that Mr. Musk truly did put this out there. I wanted to validate the remarks so I could give proper credit where credit was due. I was thrilled to find that there was truth to this, and it appears that he did, in fact, recommend "Business Showers!" I was excited!

I put a call out on social media for any small businesses (3 years old or younger) who might be interested in having us host a shower for them. The idea would be that we would have the small business owner make a "wish list" of items that would be helpful in getting them "seen" in the community and/or would help grow their business in some way. In return, the business owner would need to support at least three other business owners by actively participating (by gifting and attending) in their showers.

It didn't take long before I had plenty of inquiries and people who were excited about the idea - and they were ready to participate!

So we set up our first shower date and the planning was done. We would keep the snacks simple - like a baby or bridal shower - and we could decorate in the theme of the business. We could play games that would be fun - but also educational and related to the type of business we were honoring that evening. I love to throw parties, so this was right up my alley. I was so excited about the idea of getting business owners together to share about their products and services!

Immediately, the remainder of 2022 filled up, and I had to open up our calendar for 2023! "How exciting!," I thought. To date, we have businesses scheduled through May of 2023.

So far, we've held showers for a life coach, a travel agency, a shooting range, and we've even had a "Business Secret Santa" event for "Christmas in July" in which we had companies ranging from CBD stores to non-profits participate. It's been quite fun getting to know the business owners and the businesses in our community!

We hope to keep this up not only for the next year, but for many years to come. It really does help businesses get a strong start - and a lot of community support - which is great for everyone involved!

Coach Brandi Miles of Veterans Unleashed, LLC is "showered" with items to help her business grow.

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Last month, we asked you to share about the best leader you ever had. Here's what you had to say...

"The best boss I ever had was humble and encouraging. She allowed her staff to shine and wasn't afraid to roll up her sleeves, jump in, and help!" HIllary D., Bay St. Louis, MS

"One of the most impactful leaders I've experienced was the epitome of inspiration and grace. She was truly interested in her team and made everyone feel valued and appreciated. She was really great. " Wade J., Chapel Hill, NC

"The best leader I ever had made work fun.

Jack J., Austin, TX "My favorite boss took time with us. He paid attention to us, asked us questions, and really took time to get to know us. He was also a great encourager and motivator...but I think what really made him great was his willingness to spend time with us.

Chris A., Macon, GA

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