How to Start an Online Gift-Basket Business
An online gift-basket business combines your creativity with business. Gift baskets may include an assortment of products from gourmet food to cleaning supplies. They can be sent at any time of year and for any occasion. Gift baskets may be custom made to order or selected from a stock of ready made. Pricing for the gift basket can range from inexpensive to luxury. Gift baskets may be sent through the mail or hand delivered to local clients. Research the gift-basket competition online before starting your gift-basket business. Choose a niche that does not have a lot of competition. Your customers will be both individuals and corporate clients.
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Things You'll Need
- Baskets
- Products
- Plastic wrap
- Ribbon
- Packing paper
- Bubble wrap
- Boxes
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun
Instructions
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Choose the type of gift basket that you want to create and sell. Select a theme that you are passionate about. Test the market by making a few samples and selling them online at eBay, Etsy.com or a local craft fair.
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Obtain the licenses needed to run an online business in your state. Check your state government for any rules, regulations, licenses and sales tax requirements.
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Purchase the materials for your baskets. To find a source for your materials, check wholesale companies, factory outlets and local stores for supplies.
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Make about 10 sample baskets and take pictures of the baskets. Write an inviting description of the baskets to place on your website. Use these 10 samples to calculate costs.
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Calculate how much money you will need to start your business. Plan startup costs for a work space, tables, shelving, craft tools, shrink wrapper, heat gun, license, computer and website.
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Calculate the supplies needed to make your baskets, such as the basket, packing materials, shrink wrap and the items that you put into each basket. Calculate how much it will cost to ship each basket. Include the boxes, tape and packaging material.
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Set up a website to sell your baskets. Add a shopping cart and payment processor. Send fliers in the mail to local businesses directing them to your website.
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Market your online gift basket by submitting your website to a search engine. Use online sites such as Facebook and LinkedIn to promote your business. Send fliers to local businesses and homes advertising your online business. Carry brochures or fliers with you and pass them out to people you meet. Offer a free newsletter to attract customers. Drop off sample baskets at businesses that may be potential customers.
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Tips & Warnings
Offer free delivery in your local community.
Offer discounts to repeat customers.
Offer customer referral discounts to attract new customers.
Holidays will be your busiest time of year.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
