As someone who’s owned both an online boutique and a brick-and-mortar studio, I’ve learned just how essential it is to show up on social media and tell your story. But what does that really mean?

As a creative brand mentor, I help women-owned businesses craft authentic stories and weave them into every aspect of their brand. One question I hear often is, "How much personal information should I share?" And honestly, the answer is: it’s completely up to you. It’s about what feels right for you and your business.

What’s powerful about storytelling is that it allows you to connect with your audience on a deeper level. It cuts through the noise of social media and helps you stand out. When I co-owned AR Workshop Loudoun, I realized that sharing the story of how my co-owner and I met through our kids was a game-changer. We were moms, and our customers were moms. Sharing how playdates turned into business ideas and how we went from stay-at-home moms to business owners resonated deeply. It wasn’t the “Come to our class this Friday!” posts that got the most attention—it was the personal, authentic stories that made people feel like they knew us. That connection was everything.

When it comes to how much you should share, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. When I think back on my time with AR Workshop, I shared the story of how my co-owner and I met, how we had seven kids between us, and how our husbands helped behind the scenes. That’s as deep as I went. I didn’t dive into more personal struggles, like losing parents or the challenges of owning a business during a pandemic, because our space was one where moms came to unwind and recharge. I kept our story uplifting and light, showing our customers that if we could do it, so could they.

Your story should reflect the essence of your brand and the message you want to convey to your audience. There’s no need to compare your journey to anyone else’s. I truly believe that sharing your passion and why you do what you do can create powerful connections with your audience.

If you’re not sure where to start or how to bring your story to life, let’s chat! Your story is uniquely yours, and it’s more than worthy of being told.