Jewellery Stand

How can I start a small clothing business?

I make clothes all the time, and lately, we've been needing extra money. Everybody always compliments me on everything I make, so I wanted to know how to run a business. It will be out of my home, and I will get a website instead of a store, but I need every possible tip I can get from anybody on how to run a business. Like, how do I get it known without spend like $7million for advertising; What kind of software can I get for it, that inexpensive; where to buy cheap fabrics, sewing machines, beads, ribbon, lace, etc.; What type of things I need to run the business; & anything else that would help. Remember, I'm fourteen, so I can't get a store, unless someone paid for it (not gonna happen) and I'm pretty sure the government wont lend me money at my age. Things in the store: Dresses, shirts, shots/pants, purses, shoes, jewelry, hair accessories, misc, & notebooks and other things similar to it. I would also like to know a place to buy cheap forms and possibly mannequins. Also, places where I can get a cheap website that looks professional and easy to maintain that has only my website name then .com (not places like my website.bluevoda.com oe whatever). Once again, ANY help is needed. Thank you to everyone who helps! Oh, and I want to stay eco friendly! So, could ya'll maybe list things for advertising that include online too? & if anybody can find cheap places online to buy eco friendly supplies also? Thank you so much for all of your help, its been helpful already!

Public Comments

1. Facebook is an awesome way to get people's attention and to get the word out. Everyone seems to have a facebook these days, all age groups. You would be surprised at how many connections you could make through out. My e-mail is k8tbnz@yahoo.com. As soon as you make a website, you can e-mail me and I will help promote it on my facebook and through e-mailing other people I know. That's really cool that you make clothing and you should definitely go for your dreams! who knows, maybe one day you'll be the next big thing? also, since you are young, start thinking about college because having a degree in fashion will also help you! also, maybe work for a clothing store to gain experiment with selling. i wish you the best of luck in everything and keep up the good work!! :)
2. You should look for a young entrepreneur forum, guide, or website to get you started. As far as materials, check garage sales, ebay, craigslist, thrift stores, and the remnant section of your local fabric store. You can also search around for online warehouses and get a wholesaler discount. For software, you should look into getting the basic version of QuickBooks to manage your finances and make it easier to do your taxes. Now, you'll need to look into getting a sales tax license and prepare that return monthly and quarterly. (check your local government sites for forms and instructions)You will also need to file your articles of organization and apply for an EIN # (form ss-4) For advertising, look into Google adwords, make flyers to post at stores/school, attend networking groups, and promote word-of-mouth. You'll also want to look into getting busienss cards. Some sites offer 500 for free, but do your research. As for a website, you'll want to really do your research. If you want a site built from the ground up, maybe you should bug some techie-students at school for assistance. Check out this book for more ideas: http://www.amazon.com/Entrepreneurs-Starting-Running-Business-Completely/dp/0812933060
3. I can only help you if you ever want to sell online (and it looks like you want to do that...) 1) First validate the demand: Are there people searching for what you want to offer? https://adwords.google.com/select/KeywordToolExternal 2) Build your FREE website: http://www.officialsitebuilder.com/ 3) Select a URL and setup Hosting: http://www.officialsitebuilder.com/domain-checker.php 4) Drive traffic: https://adwords.google.com/ Hope this helps...