11.18.2010

business plans

I never realized how much work it is to set up a new business.  Even just opening an Etsy shop can take more effort than you might think!  So, although I have my Etsy shop, I'm not quite ready to start selling yet.

First, I have to get a business ID so I can set up a business checking account.  I need to figure out what my shop policies will be and whether I allow returns, etc.  Then, I'll need to take some nice photos of the items I've got ready to sell (which means I should really get a bunch more of these things made).  

I guess my initial idea of starting Etsy sales by January 1, 2011 may end up closer to reality than not.  But I want to do this as professionally as I can.  So a little extra work now will mean fewer headaches later, right?

2 comments:

  1. Yay for starting your own business. It's a lot of work, and don't forget to get your tax ID. While I realize that MN doesn't charge tax for clothing, if you make anything you will have to think about collecting sales tax. And you won't have to pay sales tax on the yarn you purchase for the business.

    And with Etsy, you NEED good photos. They allow five shots - use them all if you can. And post new items regularly (or renew items if you don't have time to post new ones). I'm terrible at this, but the people I know who have been the most successful on Etsy are listing at least daily. And probably involved in the forums, but that's something I just haven't found time or energy for personally .

    Good luck! I can't wait to see what you post.

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  2. thanks! i've been reading and learning all that i can about selling on etsy. the tax id is what i'm waiting for. i don't want to have to mess with filing taxes (even though i won't have to collect sales tax) this year so we're waiting until the new year to get it and then i'll be ready to sell! gonna have some really nice photos for my stuff since i'm working with a local gal who's starting a photography business. will probably have to take some photos of individual items as well--especially if i use different yarns/colors or whatever. :D it's exciting though!

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