how do i go about starting a baby/toddler clothing store?

Question

i know i need a business plan, but what else should i be doin g to get this off the ground

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. 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

Indeed, the business plan should be your first step, as it hammers out the basics of your business, as well as perform some basic market analysis. The federal government has a website to help with everything from the planning stage, all the way to being ready to open your door for business. They can even assist you in finding a low interest loan for starting your store.

Aside from the plan, you'll also have to give some thought as to what items you wish to sell and where you'll acquire your stock from. You'll likely want to purchase from stock warehouses, or if you know how, buy directly from the factories. For overseas factories, likely all that exists for baby/toddler clothing, you'll need to learn the ropes of importing if you choose to work directly with the factories.

Answer 3

You need a tax permit - resale certificate. Do this first. Cost very little. Office of Tax Assessor and Collector.

Answer 4

Find a store location, purchase stock.

Answer 5

Do a test marketing survey to see if this is a viable option in your area. Contact SCORE or SBA or check out their web sites.

Answer 6

Go to http://www.greatstuffcheap.com for products to sell and free help setting up the store.

Answer 7

start purchasing all of the things you want in the store.