[motobird]

Does anyone here have experience in this field? I have many questions on how to and what your successes/ pit falls where. I have an appt with SCORE.org for the business end, but opinions on the consumer end are appreciated.

My sister and I have been talking about starting our own business for years now. I was recently demoted and that included loosing hours and pay. (But thank goodness I didn't loose my job all together!) So now I found I have tons of time to make the products.

I want to go to local events and promote our products. Is giving away samples and business cards the best way, putting an add in the local paper cost effective, host events like spay neuter vaccination training education, setting up a web page? We have so many good ideas, or what I think are good. I just don't know what is most cost effective and what to start with first. I don't want to flounder or tank because this is going to be our life!

Along with the doggy treats, I want to get a store open for natural healthy dog foods, grooming supplies, and other "green supplies." I am super interested in getting involved with community, after all they are what will keep you in business as long as you have a good relationship. As for now baking cookies will probably be the way to go.

[Indy]

I might suggest trying to strike a deal with an already established local store to sell your products- not a PetSmart or Petco, but some locally owned business that will be more likely to carry specialty products. A locally-owned pet store, boarding or doggy day care facilities, or even gift shops that may already carry pet t-shirts and toys. This will give you a chance to get started with pretty minimal costs... which means less chance of "tanking". That will also give you quite a bit of exposure to your target market (pet owners). If that goes well, expand your operation to other neighborhoods/towns. Once you've established yourself and have a demand for your product, then you may have a market to open your own store. This will also give you a feel for the demand for your product. If an already established business is unable to sell your product, it may be time to reconsider. Local appearances is also a good idea, but it would be super nice to say- "hey, if you enjoyed the sample, you can purchase them at x, x, and x."

Online advertising and orders is also a relatively low-cost way to get started- but you'd need a professional looking website, a legitimate URL (not geocities.com/petcookies), and check-out system to get good business online.

[TooneyDogs]

No pesonal experience but, you might want to check out the book written by The Three Dog bakery guys...a wonderful story of how they got started...all the press they received, struggles, etc.

Those old school tactics still work but, today you also have to be on Twitter, Facebook, Google, blogs, monthly newsletters and your Website should be compatible with mobile devices.

[coby09Jan15]

hmmm...Coby loves his raw beef.