The end of summer always feels like inventory season to me. Maybe it’s a holdover from years of buying school supplies and packing (at least five!) kids off to college. At MARQUEE, it’s not backpacks and markers we’re counting—but projects, contracts, and income.
While we’ve been proud to deliver fresh work for longtime clients and pursue exciting opportunities with federal and state agencies, the flow of brand-new business has been a little tighter than usual. That shift brings its own kind of pressure—but also a chance to refocus, reconnect, and keep building toward what’s next.
Instead of spinning in stress, I reached out. I reconnected with a few trusted financial advisors—not just for balance-sheet talk, but for honest conversation and, yes, a little wisdom.
I was reminded of some key things that are worth sharing:
🔹 Bridge funding exists. Whether through community loan programs, flexible lines of credit, or nonprofit small business resources, there are options out there that can ease the strain. Ask about them. Know what tools you have available before you need them urgently.
🔹 Pride is not a strategy. It’s easy to stay busy with current clients and assume your value speaks for itself. But if you’re not asking for the business, someone else is. Follow up. Check in. Let people know what you’re offering—especially those you’ve helped before.
🔹 People want to help—you just have to reconnect. Every time I reached out to someone I hadn’t spoken to in a while, I left the conversation feeling clearer, stronger, and more supported. Our work is about relationships. So is our growth.
None of this is revolutionary. But in moments when you’re heads-down, pushing through, you forget how much power there is in simply picking up the phone.
So if you’re feeling that end-of-summer drag—or just wondering what’s next for your business—consider this your nudge. Reconnect. Reframe. And don’t be afraid to say:
“I’d love your help.”
It just might open the door you’ve been waiting on.
