Frequently asked questions

XO Business is a free community and guide for couples who run a business together — husband-and-wife teams, life partners and copreneurs. It covers work-life balance, communication, roles, burnout, intimacy and growing the business together, and every couple-run business can create a free account.

Any couple who owns or runs a business together should create a free account. Your account gives your business a profile in the directory and a back office, connected to the contacts.plus referral network, our main sponsor.

It can be, if you agree on roles, decision-making and money up front and protect time that is not about work. Many couples put their roles, ownership and an exit plan in writing with an attorney before they launch.

Most set clear boundaries — a time when work talk stops, a workspace that isn't the bedroom, and regular time together that is only about the two of you. If closeness keeps slipping, a couples therapist or relationship coach can help.

Common signs include constant exhaustion, irritability, losing interest in work you used to enjoy, poor sleep and pulling away from your partner. Burnout is a reason to slow down and get support, from body-based stress recovery to a licensed therapist.

No. XO Business is educational and a community directory. For relationship or mental health concerns see a licensed therapist, and for ownership, contracts or taxes see an attorney or CPA.

contacts.plus is our main sponsor — digital business cards and a referral network that helps small businesses get introduced to new customers.