How to start a candy bouquet business online

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

Getting started in a candy bouquet gift shop is simpler than it sounds, and starting online is much easier than opening a full-service retail store. When getting started online, there are 10 general steps I used that I’ll identify below:

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

Step 2: Choose a name for your business. You’ll want to keep three things in mind here. First, choose a name that fits your product and, if possible, include your product name in the trade name. Second, keep it simple and make it something a customer will remember. For example: if someone was selling widgets, they might choose the trade name “Widgets by Sam” or perhaps “Cool Widgets for Websites”. Third, your name must not only fit, but you need your own brand or identity to set yourself apart from your competitors.

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

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

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

Step 6: Determine insurance requirements. Contact a local insurance agent to get quotes and determine what you think 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 bank with them, you should be able to set up an account fairly easily and at minimal cost.

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

Step 9: Create commercial 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 – Set up your website online or hire someone to do it for you.

Advertise your business. You can choose to advertise locally through the newspaper or radio. You can advertise through internet marketing. All forms of advertising must be considered.

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