How to Start a Chocolate Business

To start a business takes hours of dedication and a bit of marketing know how.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Product
• Chocolate
• Kitchen
• Marketing Plan

1. Start by having three or four homemade Chocolate items that others have liked.

2. Make a wonderful display and photograph them in different lights and positions.

3. Make a tri fold flyer that you can make on your computer and insert these photos, ingredients (for those allergic) and individual/package pricing.

4. Now design a marketing plan. Start small

5. Go to craft shows
   Fairs
   Email to friends and family members plus ask them to send it to their friends and family

6. Make a monthly goal as to how many people you will contact.
   Go to flower shops

7. Get a list of Churches to put it in their bulletin
   Have a Chocolate Party (Ask for RSVP)

8. At your party promote 2 more Chocolate products.
   Ask others to have a Chocolate Party to help you.

9. Advertise online on the free advertising lists.
   http://www.craigslist.com
   http://www.directmatches.com/poconoequestrian
   http://www.myspace.com/HorseCharmer (Sample Site)
   http://r.yuwie.com/bpeffer

Tips & Warnings

• Get a Pay Pal Account or a merchant account to accept payments.
• don't forget shipping and sales tax if applicable

[GreenGables]

on 9/5/2009 Very interesting! And good tips! 5*

[HorseCharmer]

on 2/3/2008 Abby, There are many ways to have a business and it depends on your geographic location. You can start by contacting your local Chamber of Commerce they will help you get started and answer any questions you have on funding, licensing etc.

[AbbyNormal]

on 2/3/2008 Don't you need a business license? And doesn't your kitchen have to be inspected by the health department?