Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this April 2025

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The old saying goes that April showers bring May flowers. Hopefully April includes more sunny days than rainy, so you can enjoy these budget-friendly activities in Monmouth and Ocean Counties with your family and friends!

April 5

Easter in the Park (Howell) – Join Howell Township in celebrating Easter from 11am-2pm at Oak Glen Park. The kiddos can enjoy music mixed by DJ Jeff as they get their faces painted, visit the petting zoo, hop on some rides, and meet the Easter Bunny. Don’t forget to equip your youngsters with baskets, as there will be Easter egg hunts arranged by age for those 10 and younger. The event is free for all to attend. Should there be unanticipated bad weather, the rain date will be April 6th. For more information, click here.

Town Wide Garage Sale (Hazlet) – Hidden treasures await you in the town wide garage sale in Hazlet, taking place from 9am-4pm. With the number of residents hosting garage sales at 60 and counting, you will be sure to find something you love. In supporting local sellers, you will find discounted items – which keeps more money in your pocket and more items out of landfills. What better way to celebrate Earth Day early? There is no fee to buy or sell items, but sellers must fill out a form with the town to be listed on the interactive Google Map of the addresses residents can visit. There is a rain date of April 6th. Click here to learn more.

April 6

Yoga at Popcorn Park Animal Refuge (Forked River) – Unroll your yoga mat and experience the serenity of the outdoors at Popcorn Park Animal Refuge at 9am. A yoga instructor will guide you through a one-hour yoga session meant for all experience levels, incorporating the serene outdoors and peaceful sounds of the rescue animals. After the session concludes, you can explore the zoo and meet some of those friendly rescue faces. Admission is $20 and includes the yoga session and access to the zoo. The event is outdoors and weather-permitting, so please dress accordingly. To learn more and purchase tickets, click here.

April 10

Tea, Scones, and Easter Egg Hunt (Toms River) – If your little one has ever dreamed of having a tea party with the Easter Bunny, head over to the Mathis House from 6:30pm-8pm. Tea will be served with an array of flavors, as well as scones and desserts to choose from. The Easter Bunny will hang out with your little ones as they take part in an egg-citing Easter egg hunt. Admission is $20 per adult and $10 per child, with children five and under (accompanied by an adult) being free to attend. To make a reservation, call 732.818.7580. You can learn additional information here.

April 11

Spring Disco and Night Market (Asbury Park) – If you’ve been looking to time-travel back to the 70s but never knew how, head down to Convention Hall in Asbury Park from 6pm-11pm. This night out promises to be full of groovy tunes, include life-size versions of your favorite games, and have Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. There will also be items for purchase by the best local makers. The event is for those 21+, allowing all attendees to explore any of the multiple on-site bars. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Click here to view a sneak-peak of the happenings at the Spring Disco and to purchase tickets.

April 12

Spring Craft Show (Tinton Falls) – Coming up soon will be Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduation and wedding season – you’ll have a chance to shop for any of these spring events at Fort Monmouth Recreation Center from 9am-2pm. Over 40 local artisans will be selling home décor, jewelry, pottery and ceramics, and countless other handcrafted items perfect for gift-giving to others (or yourself). Admission and parking are free for all who attend. For additional information, click here.

Spring Into Popcorn Park (Forked River) – Bring your friends and family down to Popcorn Park for a day full of fun for the whole family from 9am-2pm. The event kicks off with an Easter egg hunt, with each child permitted to find and keep up to 10 eggs. No basket? No problem – there will be bags available for youngsters to decorate and use in the egg hunt. The rest of the day promises photos with the Easter Bunny and live enrichment demonstrations at the Education Center, giving attendees a chance to meet a few of Popcorn Park’s special rescues. The egg hunt is $10 per child (children 2 and under free) and photos are $25 per group. Adults will pay $10 each for admission to the refuge. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

April 19

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny (Brick) – Hop on over to the Laurelton Fire Company for breakfast with the Easter Bunny from 8am-11am. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door for those ages 2 and above – and includes a delicious pancake breakfast, approved by none other than the Easter Bunny himself! In addition to breakfast, there will be an Easter flower sale from 8am-4pm. Click here to learn more.

April 25

Chef’s Night Out (Toms River) – Competition brings out the best in the innkeeper of the Mathis House, so come sample specialty tapas plates that won’t disappoint – beginning at 7pm. From tea sandwiches to appetizers – you name it, it will be there. Each attendee will receive a grading sheet to score and provide feedback on each tapas plate, eventually crowning the best of the night. There will be live music, and the event is BYOB for those 21+. Tickets are $45 for adults and $25 for seniors. Click here to learn more, including how to purchase tickets.

April 26

Earth Day Park Beautification (Middletown) – Take spring cleaning from your home to the Murray Farmhouse Garden at Poricy Park from 9am-11am. With the garden looking for a complete refurbish, the event boasts to be the perfect community service opportunity – especially for those not afraid to get their hands a little dirty. The event is free for all to attend for ages 2+, with the park asking all minors to be accompanied by an adult. For more information, click here.

Highlands Fire Department Food Truck Event – Support the Highlands Fire Department and stop by their food truck and vendor event from 12pm-5pm. There will be street foods from all over New Jersey, a pop-up market displaying unique items, activities for little ones, a 50/50 raffle, and a beverage garden for attendees 21+ to enjoy. Admission is free for all who attend. You can find more information here.

Spring Kick Off Car & Truck Show (Lacey) – “Cruise” into the weekend with a car and truck show at Lacey High School from 9am-2pm. With music, food, ice cream trucks, and a lineup of sentimental cars for auto lovers to enjoy – this promises to be a fun day out for the entire family. Admission is free for all who attend, and there is a rain date of April 27th. Click here to learn more.

What to Do Financially if You’re Laid Off

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Losing your job can be overwhelming, emotionally and financially. Whether you were given notice or it was completely unexpected, a layoff can leave you scrambling to cover your bills and figure out your next steps. While it’s a stressful time, there are some key moves you can make to regain stability and protect your financial future.

1. File for Unemployment Immediately

Don’t wait — apply for unemployment benefits as soon as possible. While unemployment likely won’t replace your full paycheck, it can help keep you afloat while you search for your next opportunity.

Every state has different requirements and processes, so head to dol.gov to find the correct resources for your location. If you qualify, consider having taxes withheld from your unemployment checks to avoid an unexpected tax bill later.

2. Evaluate and Adjust Your Budget

Now is the time to review your spending and cut any unnecessary expenses. If you haven’t been using a budget, create one now and prioritize essentials like housing, food, and utilities. Try to avoid relying on credit cards to cover the gap, as debt can add up quickly.

Use First Financial’s Home Budget Calculator to help map out a clear spending plan based on your new financial situation.

3. Review Health Insurance Options

If your health insurance is still active through your former employer, schedule any overdue doctor or dental appointments as soon as possible – as health coverage typically ends shortly after a layoff. Begin researching health insurance options through COBRA, your state’s healthcare marketplace, or look into temporary health coverage plans to avoid going uninsured.

4. Consolidation Debt

If you have high-interest credit card debt, it can quickly spiral out of control without a steady income. Look into consolidation loans to combine debt and reduce your monthly payments.

Our Consolidation Loans offer fixed payments, flexible terms, and no pre-payment penalties, making it easier to manage your obligations during a difficult time.* Once you consolidate, stop using credit cards, stick to your updated budget, and only buy what you have the money to pay for or that is an absolute necessity.

5. Pause Discretionary Spending

While it’s important to maintain some normalcy, this isn’t the time for splurging. Cut back on non-essentials like subscription services, dining out, buying new apparel, and entertainment. Instead, try home-cooked meals and budget-friendly activities to keep your costs low. Not knowing how long a layoff will last, means your safest bet is to cut expenses wherever possible until you have stable income again.

6. Save Your Severance Package

If you receive severance pay, try to deposit as much as possible into a high-yield savings account and use it only for essential bills. It may be tempting to use the money for comfort purchases or to maintain your old lifestyle, but it’s smarter to stretch it out as long as you can. Your severance package may also include extended health benefits, outplacement services, or payment for unused vacation or sick days.

Navigating a Layoff with First Financial

While losing a job is never easy, having a plan in place can help you regain control of your finances. At First Financial, we’re here to support you during life’s unpredictable moments. Call us at 732.312.1500, visit your local branch, or explore our financial wellness resources online.

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Actual rate will vary based on creditworthiness and loan term. Subject to credit approval. Personal Loan repayment terms range from 12 to 60 months, and APRs range from 10.24% APR to 18% APR. Minimum loan amount is $500. Loan payment example: A $2,000 Personal or Consolidation Loan financed at 10.24% APR for 24 months, would have a monthly payment amount of $92.51. A First Financial Federal Credit Union membership is required to obtain a Personal Loan or Line of Credit, and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. A $5 deposit in a base savings account is required for credit union membership prior to opening any other account/loan.

Protect Yourself from Mortgage Closing Scams and Wire Fraud

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Closing on a new home is one of life’s most exciting milestones, but it also comes with financial risks — especially due to increasing mortgage closing scams and wire fraud. Scammers have been known to target homebuyers during the closing process, attempting to divert large sums of money into fraudulent accounts through phishing schemes. Falling victim to one of these scams can mean losing your down payment and closing costs, sometimes totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars.

At First Financial, we want to ensure our members are informed and prepared during primetime for buying a home – spring. Here’s what you need to know about mortgage closing scams and how to protect yourself from wire fraud.

How Mortgage Closing Scams Work

Fraudsters will often use sophisticated phishing tactics to deceive homebuyers into sending their closing funds to fake accounts. Here’s how they do it:

  • Email compromise: Scammers may hack into or spoof the email accounts of real estate agents, lenders, title companies, or attorneys. They will create similar email addresses, changing just a letter or number which often goes unnoticed. If successfully hacked, email conversations are monitored to identify upcoming closings.
  • Fake wire instructions: Once they’ve gathered enough details, the scammer will send an email impersonating a trusted party. These emails usually contain official-looking branding, logos, and signatures to appear legitimate.
  • Urgent request for a wire transfer: The fraudulent email will instruct the homebuyer to send funds to a different bank account, often citing last minute changes or updates.
  • Quick withdrawal of funds: Once the money is wired, the scammer will immediately withdraw or transfer the funds – making recovery extremely difficult, if not impossible.

These scams can be incredibly convincing, and even careful homebuyers can fall victim if they don’t take proper precautions.

Signs of Mortgage Closing Scams & Wire Fraud

  • Unexpected last minute changes to wire instructions – If you receive an email stating that your payment details have changed, be extremely cautious and call the title company or lender directly.
  • Emails with urgent or high-pressure language – Scammers typically try to create a sense of urgency, making you feel like you must act immediately.
  • Slightly altered email addresses – Fraudsters will create emails that look nearly identical to those of real estate professionals, often with minor spelling changes or different domains (e.g., @company.com vs. @company-mail.com). Always double check the email addresses you are responding to before sending money or financial information.
  • Requests for financial information via email – Legitimate real estate professionals, lenders, title agencies or attorneys will never ask for sensitive financial details through regular unsecure email.
  • Links or attachments from unknown sources – Clicking on malicious links can give scammers access to your email account and financial details.

How to Protect Yourself

  • Verify wire instructions in person or over the phone – Before wiring any funds, call your lender or title company using a trusted phone number — not one from an email. Confirm the payment details with someone you have spoken to over the course of the mortgage process.
  • Avoid emailing financial information – Email is not secure, and sensitive financial information should never be shared via email. If you need to send any documents, ask about secure portals or encrypted options.
  • Be wary of last minute changes – Scammers will often introduce urgent changes to wire transfer details right before closing. If you receive unexpected instructions, verify them with your lender or title company in person or via a known phone number.
  • Use multi-factor authentication – Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your email and financial accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification when logging in.
  • Monitor your transactions – Follow up immediately with your title company or lender after any transactions to confirm they were received. Any discrepancies should be reported immediately.
  • Establish a security code with your real estate team – Work with your real estate agent and title company to create a unique security phrase or code word to use when discussing financial transactions.

What to Do If You Become a Victim of Mortgage Wire Fraud

  • Contact your bank – Request a wire recall to try to recover the funds.
  • Report any fraud to the FBI – File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov.
  • Notify your real estate agent, title company, and lender – They may be able to assist with stopping the transaction or preventing further fraud attempts.

Time is critical — the faster you act, the better your chances of recovering your money.

Protect Your Home Purchase with First Financial

We’re committed to helping our members navigate the homebuying process safely. Whether you’re applying for a mortgage, looking for home financing advice, or seeking fraud prevention tips – we’re here to help.

To learn about our mortgage services check out our Homebuyers Guide and website, call us at 732.312.1500, or visit a branch. Subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for more expert advice on protecting your finances!

Finding a Credit Card That Fits Your Lifestyle

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Although picking a credit card isn’t as big of a decision as buying a house or car, choosing the right credit card to add to your wallet isn’t a decision that should be taken lightly. You might have an idea of the cards that are out there as a result of receiving offers in the mail, or you might just be embarking on your hunt for “the one” – your dream credit card, that is. Either way, the number of options available to you might be overwhelming. Just like the cliché saying goes, there is a credit card out there for everyone – you just have to find it. Here are some steps to help you find a credit card that fits your lifestyle.

Check Your Credit Report

Although report cards as you know them stop after high school, a credit report functions like an “adult” report card. A credit report is a snapshot of your credit situation today and your credit history over time, such as your current loans and how well you’ve done paying those loans on time. Just like your parents might have rewarded you for bringing home a satisfactory report card, credit card companies reward you for maintaining a good credit history by qualifying you for credit cards with better perks. There are various ways to check your credit score and once you do – you’re one step closer to identifying what credit cards you may qualify for. Check out our Guide to Understanding Your Credit Score to understand what factors make up your credit score and how to maintain or improve it.

Identify Which Credit Card Will Help You Meet Your Needs

Once you know your credit score, you can better assess what type of credit card will best meet your needs and what you can reasonably expect to get approved for. According to NerdWallet, there are three general types of credit cards:

  • Cards for those with limited or damaged credit history: Some credit card issuers offer credit cards for young people over age 23 who are looking to establish credit history. These credit cards are often easier to get qualified for and typically have lower credit limits. Secured credit cards may be an option if you have no credit or poor credit. To compensate for the added risk, the credit card issuer will take an initial deposit from you which sets your “credit limit.” Your deposit is not used to pay for your purchases – the deposit is there for the card issuer if you don’t pay your bill. If you exhibit good behavior, such as paying your bill on time each month – the issuer may upgrade your account to an unsecured credit card with no deposit required.
  • Cards for those who value low interest: Cards with introductory 0% APR periods or ongoing low APRs are usually better options for those who expect to carry a balance, have an unpredictable income, or who expect to make large or emergency purchases.
  • Cards for those who value rewards: Rewards credit cards are generally well-suited for those who intend to pay their balance in full every month and not incur interest. That’s because rewards credit cards generally have higher APRs, but provide benefits like sign-up bonuses and points, miles, or cash back on purchases.

It’s important to examine your values and spending habits to determine which credit card type would be the best fit for you.

It’s Time for a Vocabulary Lesson

You are setting yourself up for success when it comes to using your credit card responsibly if you understand important credit card terminology. Although there are more comprehensive lists of credit card terminology, here are a few terms to get you started.

  • Annual Percentage Rate: Usually referred to as APR, this is the interest rate you are charged if you carry a credit card balance each billing cycle – if you don’t pay your balance off in full.
  • Credit Limit: The maximum amount of money you can charge to your credit card, set by your credit card issuer. This is a ceiling, as you typically can’t spend more than your credit limit without incurring penalties.
  • Minimum Payment: The smallest amount you can pay on your credit card bill each month to keep your account in good standing. Failing to make this payment typically results in late payment penalty fees.

Apply for the Credit Card That Fits Your Lifestyle

Once you’ve done your homework and are confident in your decision, it’s time to apply for your credit card of choice. Depending on the type of credit card you decide on, ensure you understand all of the terms and benefits to make the card work for you. For example, if you applied for a credit card because you liked their introductory cash bonus offer – make sure you understand the amount you have to spend by the deadline to ensure you qualify for the cash bonus.

If your credit card research has led you to First Financial, rest assured we have a credit card to fit any lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a no-frills credit card with a lower interest rate, a credit card that’s a stepping stone, or a credit card that rewards you – we have various options that put your needs and wants first.* You can apply online 24/7, or call our Loan Department at 732-312-1500, Option 4 if you have questions.

*APR varies up to 18% when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. These APRs are for purchases and will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Subject to credit approval. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. No Annual Fees. Other fees that apply: Balance Transfer and Cash Advance Fees of 3% or $10, whichever is greater; Late Payment Fee of $29, $10 Card Replacement Fee, and Returned Payment Fee of $29. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa Credit Card and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. See firstffcu.com for current rates.

Sneaky Six: IRS Scams Taxpayers Should Watch Out For

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IRS scammers have been around for a long time and they’re sticking around because, unfortunately – people keep falling for their changing tactics. Knowing this, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) annually publishes a list of tax scams coined the Dirty Dozen, in an effort to increase awareness. Here are some of the most common scams that taxpayers should watch out for year-round, but especially during tax time.

1. Someone Using Your Social Security Number to File Taxes

A scammer might attempt to beat you to the chase – that is, beat you to claiming your own tax refund. This tax scam occurs when a fraudster uses your social security number to file and claim a tax refund. Oftentimes, the first inkling that you’re a victim is if the IRS rejects your tax return once you file. There are various reasons your tax return can be rejected, but it’s a surefire sign of identity theft if the IRS has another tax return filed in your name or a record of income from an employer you don’t work for.

There are resources available to you if someone has stolen your identity and filed a tax return with the IRS. First, you should report the identity theft to IdentityTheft.gov. This government website will aid you in creating various documents, such as an IRS Identity Theft Affidavit and personal recovery plan. You should then submit your Identity Theft Affidavit to the IRS – which notifies them of your case to begin investigating it. Alternatively, you can obtain the Identity Theft Affidavit directly from the IRS and submit it by mail. Lastly, follow the steps in your personal recovery plan to help mitigate the fallout and limit the personal and monetary damages of identity theft.

2. Ghost Tax Preparers that Disappear with Your Cash

While many tax preparers act with professionalism and integrity, tax season gives rise to unscrupulous tax preparers called “ghost preparers” who misguide taxpayers in an effort to make a quick buck or disappear with their refunds. These preparers take advantage of tax credits or deductions the taxpayer doesn’t qualify for, or invent fake sources of income to entice them with fake large refunds. They falsify tax returns in an effort to maximize the amount of the refund because they often charge a “percentage fee” based on the amount of the return. The ghost preparer typically refuses to sign the return after it is prepared, allowing them to disappear with their payment and leave you to deal with the consequences of falsifying a tax return. It is best practice to avoid any tax preparer who charges a cash only fee, does not give you a receipt, or who charges a percentage of your refund as their preparer fee. In addition, one who tries to invent false income or get tax credits and deductions you aren’t qualified for, or who deposits your refund into their own account – will typically “ghost” you.

3. Email and Text Scams

Many scams impersonating legitimate organizations begin with unsolicited emails and text messages, and IRS scams are no exception. The IRS will never demand immediate payment of a tax bill and threaten consequences for not doing so via email or text message. Similarly, the IRS will never notify you of a large tax refund via email or text message. These emails and text messages may also prompt you to click links that would download malicious software on your device or steal your personal and financial information. In the event the IRS needs to contact you, communication is typically initiated through regular U.S. mail. There are exceptions to this, as well as other ways the IRS may contact you – which can be found on the IRS webpage how to know it’s the IRS.

4. Bad Social Media Advice

In an effort to increase views and generate income, some social media influencers have been known to share bad tax advice using clickbait – or content that is designed to attract attention and entice users to click. It is hard to ignore content with headlines such as “find out how this little-known tax deduction can increase your tax refund.” Additionally, some influencers will have you pay to subscribe to gain access their exclusive “tax advice” on various platforms, but they are essentially just taking your money and sending you on your merry way – with incorrect tax advice. If you interact with this content and follow their bad advice, not only will you file a fraudulent tax return – but you also encourage these influencers to continue producing misleading content.

5. Fake Tax Bill

If you receive an urgent request to pay a tax bill with gift cards, cryptocurrency, or any other unusual yet specific method of payment – it’s a fake tax bill scam. The IRS will never call to demand immediate payment or make threats if you cannot render payment. As mentioned previously, the IRS will only contact you via regular U.S. mail.

6. IRS Individual Online Account Help Scam

An individual online account through the IRS provides taxpayers with a portal to access their tax information, such as payment history and tax records. Scammers are now posing as third parties to assist with setting up these online accounts to steal taxpayers’ personal information, submit fraudulent tax returns, and take their tax refunds. The scammer may also sell the personal and financial information to other fraudsters who may file fake tax returns and steal refunds, open loans and credit accounts in the taxpayer’s name, and ultimately steal their identity.  The IRS has a guide to establishing an IRS online account and avoiding scams.

First Financial knows that tax season can be hard enough, and that’s without the worry of being scammed being added into the mix. If you have any questions or reason to suspect that your information has fallen into the hands of a scammer this tax season, don’t hesitate to contact us at 732.312.1500 or visit us at your local branch.

Celebrating Women in Business: Advice from Successful Female Entrepreneurs

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More than 12 million women-owned businesses operate nationwide, driving innovation and economic growth. March is Women’s History Month, and First Financial is celebrating women in business by sharing valuable insights from successful female entrepreneurs. We are highlighting some impactful advice from Constant Contact’s article, “9 Successful Women Entrepreneurs Share Their Best Business Advice for Women,” that just might resonate with some of our readers.

If you’re a female small business owner or you’re looking to get started, take these lessons to heart as you grow your company. Remember, First Financial is here to support you with business banking solutions, investment and retirement guidance, financial education and more.

1. “No one is going to believe in you like you do.”– Latasha McRae, Peeks Cosmetics

Latasha McRae, founder of Peeks Cosmetics, knows firsthand that self-belief is key to success. Inspired by her mother’s perseverance in raising her family while battling Lupus, Latasha was determined to create her own path.

One of her biggest challenges was knowing who to work with and who aligned with her brand. Her advice? “Use discernment when dealing with anything in life. Take your time, do your research.” Trust yourself, do your due diligence, and always be your own biggest advocate.

2. “I hope to see more and more women in small business and big business, whatever area or arena they’re looking to get into, just step up as they are.”– Julianna Curtis, The Energy Barre

Julianna Curtis, founder of The Energy Barre, recalls moments of self-doubt and struggling to balance confidence with authenticity when speaking with clients and partners. Her journey led her to embrace her true self: “I am who I am. Confident to stand next to any male or female counterpart because I am talented, I am aware, I am informed, and I know what I’m coming here for.”

No matter where you are in your journey, take time to discover your unique leadership style and step into your role with confidence.

3. “Figure out what your brand values and messaging are, and stay true to them in everything you do.”– Nicole, Jennifer, and Colette, Lime Ricki

Sisters and co-founders of Lime Ricki, a boutique swimwear brand, credit their success to staying true to their brand’s values. Nicole, Jennifer, and Colette shared that having a strong foundation has helped them navigate challenges and make clear decisions without second-guessing. “This allows us to respond rather than react to issues and challenges that arise and gives us a foundation for making decisions and directing our course of action.”

Their advice applies to marketing as well: “Consistent, relevant messaging and email marketing that maintains our brand and core values,” has been their most effective tool for driving sales. Knowing your values keeps you grounded and gives you a solid road to follow — especially in competitive industries.

4. “Remind yourself there is always room in the market for you in whichever industry you pursue.”– Marissa Tilley, Lady Black Tie

Starting a business can be intimidating, especially when entering a saturated market. When Marissa Tilley launched Lady Black Tie in 2018, the formalwear space was already filled with established brands. But rather than let that discourage her, she found ways to bring something new to the industry. “Don’t let the brands that have been around longer than you intimidate you and keep you from starting. If anything, use this competition as motivation, and recognize that you can bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to your industry.”

If you’re a new business owner, focus on the unique value you bring and remain to adapt to trends and customer preferences. Just because you weren’t the first, doesn’t mean you can’t be successful – it’s all about your brand’s unique value proposition.

5. “Join women’s entrepreneur groups.”– Karen Leonard, Innovative Global Vision

Karen Leonard, founder of Innovative Global Vision, initially questioned whether women’s entrepreneur groups would be useful. Now, she considers them one of the most valuable resources for business owners. “These groups have given me friendship, mentors, peers, and provided the sometimes not-so-easy-to-take reality checks. Sometimes an outside perspective can remove the blinders that come from being too close to a situation or issue.”

Connecting with other like-minded women entrepreneurs can provide guidance, encouragement, and fresh insights. Surround yourself with a strong support system, and don’t hesitate to lean on others who understand your challenges.

Supporting Women in Business at First Financial

At First Financial, we are proud to support women-owned businesses by offering personalized business services and banking solutions. Our goal is to help our members gain financial confidence and achieve long-term success. If you’re a small business owner in Monmouth or Ocean Counties – and are looking for financial tools and advice, we’re here to help. For more business insights and financial resources, call us at 732.312.1500, visit a branch, or explore our services online. Subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for more financial advice and inspiration!