06/02/2026
"If you had told me when I was a young closeted man growing up in New Jersey that I would be a proud gay man living in San Francisco running two successful businesses, I wouldn't have believed it."
As we kick off Pride Month, our founder Andrew Freeman sat down to reflect on his journey, the hospitality industry, and what it truly means to lead with authenticity.
For Andrew, Pride is the cornerstone of everything we build at af&co. and Carbonate. It’s about creating a space where every team member is championed to bring their whole self, their unique talents, and their lived experiences to the table every single day.
From his early days launching Dress for Success SF all the way to his current board work supporting chef training, hunger relief, and local tourism, advocacy and hospitality have always gone hand-in-hand for Andrew. Because at the end of the day, welcoming people in means fighting for them, too.
His advice to the next generation of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs?
"Never hide who you are. Find the people and the companies that value your beliefs. You've already accomplished the biggest goal of your life: coming out! So don't be afraid to take chances"Never hide who you are. Find the people and the companies that value your beliefs. You've already accomplished the biggest goal of your life: coming out! So don't be afraid to take chances. One of my mentors, the legendary Bill Kimpton once said "When you come to a fork in the road -- take the fork!" These are words I have lived by every day. "
Join us in celebrating love, identity, and the power of being exactly who you are. Happy Pride, everyone! 🥂❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
