Entrepreneurship with a Twist: The Playful Path to Business Brilliance

You've decided to embark on the thrilling rollercoaster ride of starting your own small business like myself? Well, buckle up, my fellow fearless friends, because we're about to break down the journey in a delightfully silly and teasing way!

Step 1: Picking Your Tools - Shop 'til You Pop!

Picture this: You're in a shopping frenzy, comparing Shopify, Wix, Squarespace, Etsy, and even WordPress! It's like a fashion show for website platforms. Choose one that screams "you," and let your virtual catwalk begin! My preference is wix as it is easy for me to drop and add code in easier and it integrate with other apps that I used, blogging, video, etc compare to the others where I had to make the whole site by hand, I tried, it wasn't um...a good look. Try them out and see which scream you though.

Step 2: Logo, Dear! Branding Drama 🎭 Time to put on your creative crown and design a logo that's more fabulous than a runway model. Make your brand pop! It's the ultimate fashion statement for your business. These are some site or designer I have tried and recommend.

Step 3: Domains - Where Your Story Unfolds 📚

Stalking your domain name is like stalking your crush on social media. Should you buy it from Namecheap, Google, or get the deluxe package from platforms like Shopify, Wix, or WordPress? The choice is yours – just make sure it's as unforgettable as your favorite rom-com. I got mine from Namecheap during a fabulous $1/year sale – talk about a deal that's as dazzling as your dream!

When purchasing your domain name, make sure it's not too long, easy to spell, and easily remembered. It's like finding the perfect pair of shoes that fit just right! For that extra oomph, sprinkle in some keywords that resonate with your brand and watch your online presence strut its stuff.

Before diving into the world of domains, it's like picking the perfect outfit – you need to have a style in mind. Before even considering a designer, have a solid idea of what you want your brand to look like. Think about fonts that resonate with your vibe – Google Fonts is your one-stop fashion shop! Planning ahead helps you avoid costly alterations later. Remember, a well-chosen domain is the front row ticket to your online presence, so make it shine!

Step 4: Embrace Your Inner Boss - LLC and EIN

Obtaining your LLC and EIN is akin to putting on a superhero cape – it's your formal declaration as a business force to be reckoned with. Tap into your inner Wonder Woman and let them see who's in charge!

Keep in mind, even with an LLC, you'll still need to pay the Secretary of State to register your business within your specific state.

Step 5: Cracking the Federal Code - SBA and SAM

Navigating the world of federal contracts is like decoding a secret spy mission. Start with SBA, then unlock the treasure trove of opportunities in SAM. Mission accomplished, Agent Entrepreneur!

Step 6: The Enigma of Algorithms - Facebook's Magical Mystery Tour

Trying to bypass Facebook's algorithm is like dancing your way through a labyrinth. Master the art of algorithmic alchemy and make your content sparkle like digital glitter!

Step 7: Trademark - Your Unique Fashion Statement

Trademarking is like claiming the red carpet as your runway. Secure your image or saying with your state – because you deserve the spotlight, darling!

Step 8: The Assistant Extraordinaire - Post-Secretary, SEO!

Once you've trademarked and LLC'd, let SEO be your virtual secretary, showcasing your brand like the star of the show. Who needs an entourage when you've got keywords on your side?

Think of SEO as your website's personal stylist. Dress up your content with meta titles and descriptions that scream "click me!" Just like a red-carpet look, your URL should be short, snappy, and loaded with keywords. Don't forget those alt tags on images – they're like your page's fashion statement for search engines! And speaking of style, remember to optimize your images for web and mobile viewers. Your website's loading speed is its runway walk – make sure it's strutting its stuff in 1-2 seconds for optimal impact.

Step 9: Ads - Glamour Shots for Your Brand

Creating ads is like curating a photoshoot with the hottest celebrities. Let your brand shine like the diamond it is, and watch the world swoon over your fabulousness!

Step 10: Google Analytics - Your Business's Catwalk Stats

Think of Google Analytics as your personal fashion critic. Track your progress and see which moves make your brand sizzle and which need a little extra sparkle.

Like a fashion show, every click and visitor to your website is part of the audience's reaction. Google Analytics is your front-row seat, giving you insights into your website's performance. With this backstage pass, you'll learn what works, what doesn't, and how to fine-tune your brand's performance on the digital catwalk.

Step 11: Content Queen - Ruling the Digital Runway

Creating content is like crafting the script for your own reality show. Let your personality shine, and turn your audience into die-hard fans of your fabulous journey!

Content is your brand's wardrobe – each piece should reflect your unique style. Your website's blog and videos are like fashion-forward looks that tell a story. Use short and long-tail keywords to make your content keyword-rich and SEO-savvy. And don't forget about the magic of backlinks – they're like the VIP invites to your brand's after-party!

Step 12: The Grand Plan - 6 Months to Stardom Your 6-month plan is like designing a haute couture collection. Plot out your moves, and watch as your business struts its stuff on the runway of success!

Step 13: Scheduling Swagger - Runway Ready!

Creating a schedule by using an apps is like choreographing a high-energy dance routine. Keep things moving, stay organized, and make sure your business always takes center stage!

Step 14: Payments - The Glittering Grand Finale!

Payment gateways like Waze, Gustro, Square, Paypal, and Stripe are like the grand finale of your fashion show. Make it easy for your fans to buy into your fabulousness!

Just as the runway show ends with a jaw-dropping finale, your customers' journey should end with a seamless payment experience. Payment gateways are like your trusty tailors – they ensure everything fits perfectly. Waze, Gustro, Square, Paypal, and Stripe are your glam squad for processing transactions – choose the one that makes your business feel like a million bucks!

Step 15: Banking Bonanza

Time to pick your banking sidekick! You've got the colossal option, but beware – it's like inviting a tornado to your tea party. They're high-risk and might just snub you.

Plus, watch out for those sneaky high-interest rates, which could feel like a dragon breathing down your neck!

On the flip side, there's the friendly neighborhood local bank or credit union, ready to be your financial BFF. They'll gladly team up with you in your money-saving adventure, and their interest rates might just be as gentle as a baby unicorn's lullaby.

And hey, don't forget about the SBA loan or grant – those are like magical treasure chests that could sprinkle some extra coins into your business journey!

Step 16: Scoring a Mentor - Your Fairy Godbusinessperson!

Think of finding a mentor like snagging a VIP invite to the hottest fashion event. A mentor is your fairy godbusinessperson, guiding you through the twists and turns of entrepreneurship with sage advice and glamorous insights. Score a mentor at SCORE.org, and you'll have your own front-row seat to success!

Just like a fashion icon has a team of experts behind them, having a mentor is like having a seasoned fashion designer by your side. Check out SCORE for a mentorship that's as invaluable as a customized gown, helping you waltz through challenges and onto the runway of success!

So, my dear trailblazing trendsetter, there you have it – your hilarious yet helpful guide to conquering the small business world with sass, style, and sparkle. Remember, every step is a strut towards success, and with a touch of teasing flair, you're sure to leave a fabulous mark on the runway of entrepreneurship! 🛍️💃🌟

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