How to Start a Successful Lemonade Stand

Big, red letters are sure to catch the eye of anyone passing by.

With summer comes scorching heat that can quickly take the water right out of your body. What better way to quench people's thirst and make a few dollars than to set up a lemonade stand? Whether you're a youngster continuing the tradition of setting up summer lemonade stands or an adult attempting to create a little business, lemonade stands and summer seem like a perfect match. By driving traffic to your stand, you'll better enable yourself to launch a successful summer business.

Instructions

1. Contact your local county clerk for laws regarding the operation of a lemonade stand. There have been cases where lemonade stand operators were fined for not having the necessary business licenses. Even if the operators are kids, most states still require some sort of licensing.

2. Choose a location. To maximize sales, talk to a few local business owners about setting up shop outside their businesses. Some won't have a problem with it, because it may bring them more customers.

3. Personalize your stand. Create a banner with your prices and the name of your lemonade stand. Hang the banner above the stand or on the face of the stand for everyone to see. Mark the prices in large, bright letters so you can capture everyone's attention.

4. Offer multiple options. You'll attract more traffic if customers have choices. For example, instead of offering just a small cup of lemonade, offer large and medium sizes. Instead of forcing customers to purchase one kind of lemonade, include choices such as strawberry lemonade and peach lemonade.

5. Ask anyone who passes by if they'd like a cup of lemonade. People might ignore your signs and banners, but we all have more difficulty actually saying no when asked. Stir up conversations, make jokes and lighten everyone's mood. Above all, remain friendly. People are far more likely to purchase something when the salesperson is respectful and happy.

References

• LawInfo.com; Children's Lemonade Stand Fined $500 for Operating Without a License; Mark Sweet; June 2011
• TeachingKidsBusiness.com: Kid's Lemonade Stand Business Program