Houston florist worries potential TikTok ban could stunt small business growth

TikTok has become more than just a social media platform—it’s a powerful tool for small businesses to connect, grow, and thrive. But with a potential nationwide ban looming, Houston entrepreneur Elisa Monreal is worried about what this could mean for her floral business, Angelic Elegance by Alyssa.

TikTok: A vital tool for growth

Monreal’s business has flourished on TikTok, where she shares creative floral arrangements with her followers. She says the platform provides unique visibility that other apps can’t match.

“It’s just TikTok has the outreach that other platforms don’t,” Monreal said. “They allow you to use a lot of audios, a lot of trends. It’s easy to fit into what is working now.”

Beyond exposure, TikTok’s financial incentives have also contributed to her success. Once small businesses reach a certain following, the app offers payouts based on engagement metrics like views and likes.

“So once you reach a certain following on TikTok, they do start to pay you,” Monreal explained. “It’s like another paycheck that I can put into the business to make it grow more.”

Building a community and sharing knowledge

For Monreal, TikTok isn’t just about sales; it’s also a place to inspire and educate others.

“Tiktok is not just about clientele, but it’s about reaching people who want to start their own businesses,” she said. “A lot of them learn from there—people who can’t afford to go to school or to learn from someone else.”

Preparing for uncertainty

With the future of TikTok in jeopardy, Monreal is considering how her business might adapt.

“If it stays, it stays. If it doesn’t, I’m gonna have to learn a new platform,” she said. “I just want to know where everyone’s going so I know exactly where I can find the clientele and the audience that I have now.”

Despite the challenges, Monreal remains optimistic. She believes that stepping out of her comfort zone, while daunting, could ultimately lead to growth.

“Sometimes being uncomfortable is exactly where you need to be to grow to the next level,” she said.

TikTok’s future hangs in the balance

The Supreme Court is set to hear arguments on January 10 about whether the potential ban violates the First Amendment, with a decision expected before the law takes effect on January 19. For small business owners like Monreal, the outcome could redefine how they connect with their audience and sustain their operations.

For now, Monreal—and many like her—are left waiting to see where the chips will fall.