I make jewelry and have many connections to stock a gift shop, need suggestions about financial assistance...?

Question

I have skills and experience in the jewelry and gift business( always worked for someone else). I am ready to be my own boss.I am greatful for any input.

Answer 1

I recommend checking out the SBA, Entrepreneur, The Start Up Journal & Nolo. All 4 are great informational resources for the new/small business owner. I posted links for you in the source box.

Associations may be a good avenue to explore as well. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.

Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

* Entrepreneurial Finance: For New and Emerging Businesses by James McNeill Stancill
* The Business Startup Checklist and Planning Guide: Seize Your Entrepreneurial Dreams! by Stephanie Chandler
* How to Really Start Your Own Business, Fourth Edition by David E. Gumpert
* How to Really Create a Successful Business Plan: Step-by-Step Guide by David E. Gumpert
* What No One Ever Tells You about Starting Your Own Business: Real-Life Start-Up Advice from 101 Successful Entrepreneurs (What No One Ever Tells You About Starting Your Own Business) by Jan Norman
* Business Start-Up Kit by Steven D. Strauss
* Start Your Own Business (Entrepreneur Magazine's Start Up) by Rieva Lesonsky

There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Answer 2

Sometimes starting a small business with little to no capital requires creative financing. For example, what about working with your suppliers to get credit, say 30, 60, 90 day terms? How about a small loan from a parent, grandparent or other relative? If you are reselling someone else's jewelry how about getting their pieces on consignment to put in the gift shop. Then pay them as soon as their piece sells.

If you think outside the box, get creative you can make it happen. I started a jewelry store 16 years ago with virtually no money. Today we have a nice jewelry store with 4 employees and run a very busy jewelry website, http://www.Titanium-Jewelry.com.

So take heart...it can be done!