Going Into The Weekend Gay, Glorious, and Thriving: Your Fabulous Friday Pep Talk for LGBTQ+ Businesses!

The Hustle is Real, But So is the Fabulousness!

Let’s be real squirrel friends, it's Friday, "Drag Race" is on tonight, and running a business is like trying to keep your lashes on in a windstorm. It takes resilience, creativity, and just a dash of sheer magic. But guess what? You, dear LGBTQ+ entrepreneur, have been out there slaying, owning your brand, and making the world more fabulous one product, service, or revolutionary idea at a time. That deserves a standing ovation.

So before you wrap up your week and pop open that much-deserved bottle of Prosecco (or, let’s be honest, in my case, an entire pizza), let’s reflect, recharge, and laugh our way into the weekend with a little queer business motivation.

1. The Art of Selling with Sass and Class

Talking about "Drag Race," do you ever feel like running your business is like performing drag, occasional glam, a few stumbles, and a whole lot of charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent? That’s because it is! LGBTQ+ brands are thriving not just because we offer amazing products, but because we know how to tell a story and build community.

The key? Authenticity. Like I talked a little about in Wednesday's post, whether you're selling sustainable swimwear, gender-neutral fragrances, or sassy stationery, your brand is a reflection of you—so own it! People aren’t just buying a product; they’re buying the experience, the values, and the vibe you bring. Keep it real, keep it bold, and sprinkle in that queer magic that makes your business unforgettable.

Business Tip: Share your personal story! Consumers love knowing who’s behind the brand. It’s not just about selling; it’s about connecting.

2. Social Media: Werk That Algorithm!

If Instagram is your runway and TikTok is your stage, then you already know the power of digital marketing. But let’s be honest, social media algorithms can feel like that shady ex who loves to ghost you just when things were getting good.

What’s the trick? Engagement. LGBTQ+ businesses thrive when we create conversations, not just content. Post behind-the-scenes chaos (because, let’s be real, we all have it), ask your audience questions, and make them part of your journey. And if all else fails, just add a picture of you and your pet, because the internet loves nothing more than a fabulous furry friend.

Hot Tip: Leverage trends but make them your own. Don’t just hop on a TikTok dance—make it queer, make it bold, make it you.

3. Networking, But Make It Gay

Remember when networking meant standing awkwardly at events, balancing a free drink while pretending you totally weren’t just there for the snacks? Or is that just me? Good news: queer networking is a whole different vibe. It’s about building real connections, lifting each other up, and celebrating wins—big and small.

Find LGBTQ+ business groups, virtual meetups, or just slide into the DMs of other queer entrepreneurs whose work you admire. I love my "Plexus," the queer chamber of commerce here in Cleveland/Akron. The community is strong, supportive, and always down to hype you up when you need it.

Networking Tip: Compliment someone’s work before pitching yourself. Nobody likes a “Hey, buy my stuff” message out of nowhere. Build relationships first!

4. Self-Care is the New Hustle

Let’s talk burnout, because the struggle is real. Running a business is a 24/7 gig, but guess what? You can’t serve looks or customers if you’re running on empty.

This is your official permission slip to rest. That means logging off, indulging in some self-care (bubble bath with a queer lit book, anyone?), and remembering that success isn’t about grinding yourself into the ground.

Mantra for the Weekend: Resting is productive. Repeat that until it sinks in.

5. Ending the Week on a High Note

Before you clock out (if entrepreneurs even do that?), take a moment to appreciate just how far you’ve come. Whether you’ve made a sale, connected with a new customer, or simply survived another chaotic workweek, you’re doing the damn thing. And that’s worth celebrating.

So, grab that drink, toast to your success, and strut into the weekend like the icon you are. Keep building, keep shining, and most importantly—keep making the world better, one fabulous business move at a time. Happy Friday, and treat yo'self to being that absolute legend that you are.