My lawyer friend let me know about some interesting advice that I figured I would pass along to fellow Texas residents. Crowdfunding is coming to the Lone Star State...

Huh?

That was my response, too. Then I did some digging and it made sense.

So what is crowdfunding, exactly? I'll try to explain in layman's terms....

As best described by one business portal that is set to help with the process, new rules have allowed any average joe investor to get in on funding startups and other business ideas.

As an example, a restaurant wants to sell a 10% equity in their company to raise money to buy new patio furniture. Previously, this would be a very convoluted process (involving well-connected heavy hitting investors only, in most cases) that most people wouldn't have a chance to get involved in.

New crowdfunding rules change that. Much in the same way a band can raise money via Kickstarter to buy a new van for their tour, people will be able to invest in new business ideas and other investments.

This is interesting for a number of reasons and should open up a wave of new business opportunities that were not possible up until now. It allows the common man to become a "VC" or "angel investor" in a way. Again - terms that were not possible for 98% of the population until recently.

Basically, via a business portal such as the afore-mentioned Lone Star Crowdfunding - investors connect with entrepreneurs selling stock in their ideas. If my understanding is correct.

Are there limits? Yes, but they aren't restrictive. New businesses can raise up to $1 million a year from the public. Not too shabby.

I've probably butchered it a little but that's the general gist. It's an exciting new era for business development in Texas, thanks to new regulations that will come into play in 2015.

My friend (and fellow fantasy football player) owns Rakestraw Fence and Rustic Furniture - a niche business in the North Dallas area - and after months of putting it off, I finally got around to commissioning him to build me something custom for my living room.

I've known the owner for well over a decade now and he's always been handy and creative. His business started out as a fence repair site in his neighborhood but his flair for building quality furniture took on a life of its own and that soon became his main focus.

Anyway, I'll be adding pics shortly but the wine rack he created for me, complete with Texas flag branding, looks amazing and I've already gotten compliments on Facebook. It holds 6 bottles of wine, takes up minimal space and even has a slot to hold wine glasses. How cool is that? Very!

I try to support local businesses whenever possible and this is a keeper for sure. If you are looking for something cool to give your spouse or family this Christmas, check them out and see what they can do for you. You'd be surprised at what they can build and you are limited only by your imagination. Happy holidays!