Etiquette for reaching out to friends of firm?

Was interested in reaching out to people at certain larger firms and was looking for advice. I was planning on reaching out to friends of my current firm (small boutique IB, 10 employees) and was wondering if this was appropriate. I wouldn't use the company email or mention that I work for this boutique but just ask if they could spare some time to talk. Would this be appropriate or am I overstepping my boundaries?

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