These are government-operated programs focusing on helping small businesses get started and flourish. They will help you make a business plan and budget – very critical steps. Now best part is that appointments are usually free. Ask them to send you a kit on how to start your business because each state may be different in where to file legal papers. The SBDC will help you with easiest order of steps such opening a commercial bank account, where to file your business name, getting listed in yellow pages, etc. Find SBDC near you by going to www.sba.gov/sbdc. 3. Take a training program

Now first two steps have not cost you too much but third step will. I highly recommend that you take a hands-on professional redecorating training program. Yes, I know that they are a lot of money (can be 2 to 3 thousand for week) but I would not even think about going into this business without a strong background in not just what makes a house looks good, but how to market this niche area, how to work with clients (like how to tell a client that lime green carpet and moose head have to go) In your favorite search engine type in phrase “Interior Redesign training” or “ Home Staging training” When I took training programs I was mental and physically exhausted at end of week, I felt it was well worth money. I still refer to my training manuals and network with my creative classmates. Just like any other consumer purchase, be sure to research company and check references. (There are people who claim you can download their book and start a thriving redecorating business. I do not recommend that method)

My biggest advice is that decorating may be your passion but you need to treat it like a business to get paid for it. Once you get paid for it then, believe me, you will love to decorate even more!

If you love to paint, get your paintings to a local art gallery that focuses on local artists. Your creative home business can get a turbo charge this way. Good art galleries are always on lookout for fresh, new talent and are willing to have shows where you can sell your paintings. Another idea for selling your paintings (that not a lot of artists think of!) is through interior decorators. They, too, are always looking for unique art for their clients’ homes and apartments. So arrange to show some of them your work and you’ll likely make several sales immediately.

Now that you hopefully have your own creative business idea, here are a few things you need to consider:

• What supplies and/or equipment do I need?
• Should I hire an accountant?
• Do I have space I need in my home?
• Does my area/state require me to get a business license?
• How do I prepare for tax time?
• Is there a market for my items?
• What’s my competition doing?
• How do I advertise?

After you’ve done needed research, write out a business plan. And then follow it. You can’t make a wedding gown without a pattern or plan. You can’t build a business without one either. But with a good business plan, effort, determination, and patience, you CAN have successful creative home business you’ve always dreamed of having.

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