HOW DO I KNOW IF THERE IS A MARKET FOR GIFT BASKETS IN MY AREA?

As long as people buy gifts for each other there will always be a need for gift baskets.  Today gift baskets are the most popular choice of gift giving by both the giver and receiver.  Corporate businesses as well as the general public have a continuing need for gift baskets. The gift basket industry has exploded over the past few years and continues to be a successful money making business for those involved.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I AM QUALIFIED TO RUN MY OWN BUSINESS?

You have already taken the right steps by being here.   You might also want to ask yourself if you possess the qualities of a successful business owner.  Am I self disciplined, professional, creative, courageous, resilient, patient, self-confident and determined?  If so, then "Follow Your Dreams".

COULD I KEEP MY REGULAR JOB WHILE DOING THIS?

If you can plan and budget your time you should not have any problems running this business on a part time basis.  If you work during the day you can get voice mail for your business.  Let your customers know that you will be checking your messages at a certain time and that you will get back to them at that time.  Make sure you follow up on all messages.  You can have your parties or make gift baskets in the evening when you are at home.  If you have deliveries that need to be made, line up some friends or students that could do this for you on an as needed basis.

HOW WOULD I MARKET MY PRODUCTS OR SERVICES?

Never underestimate the power of word of mouth!!  Start out by selling to family, friends and coworkers.  Tell other parents, your doctor, your hairstylist, your dentist, etc.  You get the picture. You'll be amazed how fast word of mouth spreads.  You also should network as much as possible.  There are so many ways to do this from the school PTA to local charity groups.  Consider donating a basket or product for a special event with a charity or other organizations.  Make sure you have plenty of business cards too.  Give two or three to everyone you associate with and ask them to pass a couple on to friends.  Have a home party to sell your products.  Rent a booth at a craft mall and sell your custom-made gift baskets there.  Sell your candles or gift baskets at craft fairs.  Or how about trying the Internet!!

CAN I REALLY MAKE MONEY SELLING THESE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES?

If you have done your research, have good products, offer excellent service, competitive pricing, continually market your products and services, and work hard, your income potential can be limitless.  It is up to you to determine how much money you wish to make.

WILL PEOPLE TAKE A HOME BASED BUSINESS SERIOUSLY?

Home based businesses are definitely rising in importance to our economy.  About 70% of home-based businesses will last over a three-year period, compared to 29% of other business ventures, according to the Home-Based Business Institute.  

 The Internet alone has thousands of web sites that are dedicated to home based businesses.  Our society is now recognizing the continued growth and security in operating a business from the home.  However, if you want to be recognized as a professional in the business world then you must operate a professional business.  Make sure you have a separate phone line for example.  Make sure when you make business calls that there are no other household noises in the background.  Also, if you use e-mail, set up a special business address so that you can control and maintain your messages. Make sure you have professionally made business cards, brochures, letterhead, etc.  Running these off on a copier or laser printer will not be perceived as professional.

I DON'T KNOW HOW TO START.  WHAT DO I NEED TO DO FIRST?

Learning from people who have been successful with their gift basket businesses is a smart step.  In that case you learn from their experiences.  Be sure to check out The Gift Basket Connectory.  It will save you money and help you get your business started on the right foundation.  The Gift Basket Connectory offers step-by-step help, customizable brochures to help you market, gift basket training videos, support, website set up help, and tons of other great information.