How to Start a Candy Bouquet Business Online

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If you are looking for a do-it-yourself type of business and you have an artistic flare, you might consider starting a business with creating gift arrangements of candy bouquets. Candy bouquets are becoming very popular and are the perfect unique gift for all occasions.  Everyone loves candy and everyone loves these sweet delights.

Getting started in a candy bouquet gift store is simpler than it seems and getting started online is much easier then opening a full service retail store. In getting started online, there are 10 general steps I used which I will identify below:  

Step 1: Choose your form of business organization.   You may choose between sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability partnership, corporation and etc.   

Step 2: Choose a name for your business. You will want to keep three things in mind here. First, choose a name that is fitting for your product and if possible have your product name in the business name. Second, keep it simple and make it something a customer may remember. For example: If someone was selling widgets, they may pick a business name “Widgets by Sam” or maybe “Cool Widgets for Websites.”  Third, not only should your name be fitting it needs its own brand or its own identity to set yourself apart from your competitors.   

Step 3: Obtain business licenses and permits. Each state has their own requirements so contact your state business licensing department. In my state of Minnesota, you fill out a form and pay a business licensing fee, and you list it in a newspaper as a new business. Others states may require additional steps.  

Step 4: Create and write up a business plan. You can find many templates to help you create and write up a business plan online. They will identify all the areas you need to consider such as products you sell, market, demographics, financing options, goals, etc. This document is critical in pulling together a plan of what you are going to do and how you are going to achieve it. You will also need a business plan should you need financing. If you choose to go the route of an online candy bouquet store, there is a minimal investment up front. Your up front investment would generally be for inventory and office equipment or supplies to get started.   

Step 5: Determine funding and financing needed. Take the business plan you created to a bank or look for investors if you have determined you need financing. Each investor will want a copy of your business plan to take a look at all the details of your business. If you have determined it is a minimal investment which you have funding for then you will not need to go to a bank or seek investors.     

Step 6: Determine insurance requirements. Contact a local insurance agent to get quotes and determine what you feel is best for your business needs. They will work with you and keep you informed of your options.   

Step 7: Set up a business checking account with your personal bank. Since you already do banking with them, you should be able to set up an account rather easily and at minimal cost.  

Step 8:  Purchase your startup inventory. Your business plan should have identified the products you will be selling, suppliers, and costs associated. Determine and order your startup inventory needs.   

Step 9: Create business products. You will need to create your candy bouquet arrangements, brochures, business cards, etc. You may want to start small and as you expand add products to your business.    

Step 10: Setup your online website or hire someone to do that.     

Advertise your business. You may choose to advertise locally through newspaper or radio. You may advertise through internet marketing. All ways of advertising should be considered.   

In conclusion, these 10 steps should help get you started in starting your own venture into a candy bouquet business. Here I cut it down into 10 smaller more manageable tasks. These steps are a guide to help you as you begin and get started.        

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