You Had the Idea. You Took the Leap. Now What?
We love to brainstorm, think outside the box, and dive deep into the sea of new ideas. You’ve got to admit — when an idea of yours sparks a flame and catches fire, it’s a good feeling, right?
Right!
But here’s the thing with new ideas: they also come with new risks. The bigger the idea, the grander the plan — the bigger the risk.
Let’s Talk About the One Thing Most People Overlook
Hey, hi — let us introduce you to our mom, Ellen Fenton, a highly respected insurance professional with 35 years in the business.
It’s more common than not that new clients say, “I haven’t looked at this policy in years…”
We get it — insurance isn’t necessarily a fun topic. But take it from us: it’s a conversation worth having.
Your business deserves coverage that works as hard as you do. Could you imagine one claim forcing you to shut your doors?
That can and does happen to businesses that don’t carry the right coverage or coverage limits.
Don’t let that be you.
Not Covered Yet? Here’s When to Talk to Someone.
If you’re reading this and wondering whether you even need insurance — let’s break it down.
Here are 3 signs it’s time to speak with an agent:
- You’re accepting payments for products, services, sponsorships, or digital content. Congrats — you’ve officially entered “business” territory.
- You’re working with people. That includes clients, event attendees, or customers receiving shipped goods.
- You’ve invested in your work. Gear, inventory, workspace, branding, reputation — if it’s cost you time, money, or energy, it’s worth protecting.
Already Have Coverage? You Still Need This Reminder
We’ve worked with countless Western New York businesses — and more often than not, we’re helping them pivot, solve problems, and create new streams of revenue.
And we always say this:
You’d rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.
Here’s another reason that might hit close to home:
Nearly 43% of small businesses face a lawsuit or legal threat each year.
And the thing is — it doesn’t always matter if you’re in the wrong. A slip-and-fall at an event, a miscommunication in a contract, a customer complaint taken to court... any of it can turn into a five-figure claim overnight.
Even a strong business plan can’t always protect you from the unexpected. But the right commercial insurance policy? That can.
Here’s How You Know It’s Time to Schedule a Policy Review
- You’ve added new products, services, or revenue streams.
Started offering workshops? Expanded your service categories? Selling digital or physical products? Every change in your business model introduces new risk — and if your policy doesn’t reflect it, you may not be covered.
- You’ve moved, renovated, or added a new location.
Even a small home office upgrade can change what coverage you need. Your policy should match your physical setup, zoning, and building usage to keep your investment safe.
- You’ve grown your team or partnered with other businesses.
From hiring employees to partnering with contractors or vendors — these changes can create liability overlaps or gaps. If your policy hasn’t kept up with your relationships, it might not have your back when it counts.
Ellen recommends reviewing your policy every year. As your business evolves — whether you’re scaling, shifting, or experimenting — your insurance should evolve too.
Keep your agent in the loop. It’s a small move that protects everything you’re building.
Does Your Mom Do Auto and Home, Too?
The short answer? Yes!
But here’s the full scoop:
Our mom’s agency is Ellen Fenton & Co. Insurance with two locations — the flagship in Ellicottville, NY, and a second office in Franklinville, NY.
She writes insurance for just about everything except health and life — in both New York and Pennsylvania — with a dedicated staff of three.
She’s been in the industry for 35 years, and her local agency will be celebrating 8 years in business soon!
A lot has changed since she opened, including a move to become more digital...
Start Your Quote (or Review) Online
Recently, Ellen asked us to create a digital space where clients could easily get started when looking for a quote.
So that’s exactly what we did! It’s secure, fast, and easy to navigate.
Start your quote or schedule a review today at ellenfenton.com
If You’re Building It — You Should Be Protecting It
If you hold value in what you do — if you’ve dedicated time, energy, and resources to it — then making sure it’s covered is more than just a recommendation. It’s a responsibility.
You know what they say: knowledge is power.
When you understand what you’re covered for — and what your policy limits are — you can confidently steer your business in a direction that aligns with both your goals and your coverage.
Call our mom — no, seriously!
Working with Refined Media 716
If you’ve ever taken a leap of faith on a new idea — we get it. We’ve done the same with our own business, and we’ve helped clients do it, too.
Our mom’s agency was one of our very first partners. What started as a traditional, locally respected insurance office has since evolved into a digitally accessible, modern small business — and we were honored to help make that happen.
We helped reimagine her brand presence, built a website that makes navigating insurance feel easy (yes, really), and crafted content that actually connects with her audience. From copywriting to creative strategy, our goal was simple: help her show up with the same level of clarity and trust she brings to every client conversation.
Because when your business is evolving, your digital presence should evolve with it.
That’s what we do at Refined Media 716 — whether you’re pivoting, growing, or just starting out, we’re here to make sure your story lands with the people who need to hear it most.
