Legal Services helps entrepreneurs pursue their dreams

A key innovative service provided at no charge by Legal Services of Eastern Missouri is helping aspiring low-income entrepreneurs gain the knowledge and resources needed to succeed.

Entrepreneur Shelby Farr launched and expanded Shelby Marie Luxury Fragrance Bar with support from the CED Microenterprise Program at Legal Services of Eastern Missouri. 

“Legal Services lawyers help with questions, such as:  how do I incorporate, how do I sign a lease, how do I handle employee agreements, and how do I trademark my brand name,” explained Marlene Elliott, LSEM managing attorney, CED Microenterprise Program.

Legal Services of Eastern Missouri has provided free civil legal help for low-income families for 65 years. In 2021, more than 37,000 people in 21 counties of eastern Missouri received assistance from four regional offices. The program to help low-income entrepreneurs started in 2011. 

Farr participated in the program and recently expanded to a new location. Farr’s initial space could hold about 20 people. Her new space accommodates nearly 45 people indoors and features a patio for about 40 customers.

The CED Microenterprise Program helps clients understand core legal needs for the success and expansion of their business. 

The Luxury Fragrance Bar offers customers a sophisticated and personalized experience to create their signature fragrance. It provides high-quality fragrance oils, expert guidance from a Master Fragrance Designer, and a customized process to create the perfect blend. 

“We emphasize providing a luxurious and memorable journey for every customer. If a desired time is unavailable on the day you choose, join our waitlist and we will work to accommodate you,” said Farr.

LSEM has seen a surge of interest in people wanting to start their businesses. The CED Microenterprise Program provides the necessary support for them to flourish. Farr got acquainted with Elliot through The Better Family Life Business program, she came to speak with our class about the Attorney Services.

Elliot joined in March 2018 as a staff attorney and became the manager in October 2022 she describes the work she is doing to help others as “really great”. The attorney wears multiple hats, she assists in community outreach, fundraising for the microenterprise program, and lastly she’s a connector. “Even if we can’t help people with what they need. We try to get them the proper services they need,” said Elliot. 

Many low-income entrepreneurs start with a small pot of money. According to Elliot, their financial hardships can put a strain on if they can pay rent, their mortgage, utilities, and other expenses. “ It’s not easy to get access to a business loan or assistance to help start up a business,” she said. 

“Marlene has helped my business in many ways, she is currently helping me get my trademark. She had read over past business leases and created contracts for me,” said Farr. 

“I love seeing her business grow,” said Elliot. 

Some entrepreneurs who joined the program needed assistance in legal advice, getting their products patented, or just networking and being connected to the right people. “ We try to level the playing field,” said Elliot. She added, “Information can be free, and I’m getting that information to the people who don’t have access to it.” 

Elliot has partnered with the Small Business Development Corporation, Urban League, Better Family Life, Veteran Business Resource Center, and St. Louis County Library. These partnerships help entrepreneurs in getting small business loans and mentoring. 

For more information,  visit www.lsem.org

Ashley Winters is a Report for America reporter for the St. Louis American.