[Hidden-tech] LLC advice related to consulting

[Peter]

Hi hidden-techers ,

I’m an embedded software engineer by trade and I recently learned from my employer that, due to market difficulties, I’ll need to start looking for new work the middle of next year.

I was talking to a friend and he recommended that I startup my own LLC and go the consulting route to “try before I buy” on any new job before I start full time, if possible. 

The likelihood of me actually doing that aside, here’s my question: my wife already has gone through the process to get an EIN/LLC for her art business.  Could the two of us use the same LLC ? 

If so, is that advisable, or should I create my own?

If we did share the same one, I’d want to change the LLC company name from an art-themed one to something more generic.  Has anyone gone through this process?  

Having never consulted before, I’m pretty clueless as to all of these logistics.  

I’m interested in anyone’s thoughts or advice on any of the above.  I also recently started a relationship with a local tax accountant so I’ll likely talk to them about all this as well.

Thanks in advance for your time and thoughtful responses!

-Peter Sienkewicz