Gift Basket Business Blog

Home Based Gift Basket Businesses

September 9th, 2007 at 07:47pm Lorie Obernauer

Just read an interesting blog about things to consider when starting a home based gift basket business. There’s lots to think about and author Randy Wilson identifies some of the most important factors.

First, it’s wise to write a business plan. This will help you clarify your goals and aspirations as well as help you think out how to reach those goals. The Small Business Administration offers free materials to help you with this. I think that part of this phase should also include an examination of the competition in your area. What are other gift basket makers offering? What can you offer that will set you apart?

Next, you need to list the office supplies you’ll need: phones, computer equipment, etc. You should also look into business insurance in order to protect yourself and your customers against unforeseen circumstances.

Third, think about inventory. Wilson suggests that you don’t need a lot of inventory for start-up, but on the other hand, you need to have enough product to be able to make creative baskets in a timely manner that will satisfy your customers. Consider starting with product assortments that will give you a variety of items to work with. If you need a list of items you should have on hand to start-up, see my earlier post on this topic and learn how to get start-up inventory lists and discounts for new gift basket businesses.

Fourth, contact your local government to learn about regulations in your city, county and state that might affect how you start your business.

Finally, before you start, think about how you will market your business. Advertising costs money, but it’s necessary to have a plan and a budget for this so that you can draw customers to your business.

And be sure to invest in “How to Start a Home Based Gift Basket Business, 4th edition”, by Shirley Frazier. Shirley covers all the points listed above in great detail and provides step by step instructions that will help you get your gift basket business off the ground.

Entry Filed under: Gourmet Gift Foods, Gift Basket Supplies, Business Tips