I've been running a business with my childhood best friend. We set commandments to make sure our relationship always comes first.

Ashley Morris bought a restaurant with his best friend.

Courtesy of Ashley Morris

• Ashley Morris knew he wanted to go into business with his best friend.
• They initially bought a restaurant franchise and later purchased the entire business.
• They've been operating it together since 2008, scaling from 40 locations to more than 170.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Ashley Morris, CEO of Capriotti's. It has been edited for length and clarity.