How to Start a Boutique

Starting a boutique can be an exciting adventure. Planning and a good eye, along with these tips, will help you succeed.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Business Licenses
• Business Loans
• Business loans

1. Decide what type of boutique you want to open. Do you want to specialize in accessories, cruise or vacation wear, sportswear, elegant clothing or consignment?

2. Get a resale number from the Franchise Tax Board. This will get you into trade shows and allow you to purchase their goods.

3. Contact the city or county department that handles business licenses and get an application. Ask what other requirements there are for opening a business in the area.

4. Find suppliers. Go to trade shows and join organizations to get lists of suppliers for the products you want to carry.

5. Select a location. You will need a storefront that has good street visibility and easy access.

6. Design the store to be inviting. Select special items to put in windows to entice customers to come inside.

7. Advertise. Hold mini-fashion shows to create publicity for your store and attract customers.

8. Try something new. Order items that you think the public might like, even if you don't like them personally.

9. Listen to what your customers are asking for and try to fill their needs.

Tips & Warnings

• You might have to try several different looks for your merchandise until you hit on the perfect combination of goods for your customer base.

Who Can Help:

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[jnhuver]

on 5/5/2009 This is so informational. I am not even sure where to begin.....Any advice, information, I am all ears....Thank you....

[sunshineandrose]

on 3/7/2009 I would love to have a consignment clothing store. I know it is a lot work to get started up. Thanks for the great information.

[jennifer0805]

on 1/28/2009 Im so desperate I want to open up my own accessory boutique..Can someone tell me where to start.. :-) Any infromation will be greatly apprectiated...

[Makemeamommy08]

on 1/9/2009 My mom has thought about opening her own boutique for a long time. It does take sometime to get your warehouse inventory together and your clientele. This is a dream of my moms and I want to make this happen for her. This is some awesome info!! I'm passing it along to her right now. She's gonna be so excited!

Jenn
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[shunwms]

on 10/29/2007 Do you have to be in business before you join an organization or locate trade shows?