where can I find advice about starting up a clothes shop?

Question

Me and a friend are planning to set up a clothes shop and despite having our idea firmly in place, we are struggling to know what the next step is.

Answer 1

The best routes to take are to research the process of starting a business as well as the industry you're interested in.

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:

* Start Your Own Clothing Store (Entrepreneur Magazine's Start Up) by Entrepreneur Press
* Start and Run a Profitable Retail Business by Jim Dion, Ted Topping
* Retail Business Kit for Dummies by Rick Segel
* Specialty Shop Retailing: How to Run Your Own Store Revised by Carol L. Schroeder
* So You Want To Own The Store: Secrets to Running a Successful Retail Operation by Mort Brown

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

Draft a formal business plan. Google that subject for advice on how to put at least a basic one together. It will assure that you're looking at all the essentials. Think about funding, supplies, location, etc.

Answer 3

Go to your bank and ask to speak to the small/new business advisor, they will have all the info you need. Good Luck

Answer 4

Entrepreneur has useful guides:

http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/0,4621,319780,00.html

Answer 5

Your bank

Answer 6

right here !!!