In this guide
Start with one clear offer
A business that does one thing well is easier to explain, price and run than one that does everything. Choose something you know, that people already buy, and that you can deliver reliably. You can widen the range later.
Work out the numbers first
Estimate what it costs to make or buy what you sell, what you will charge and how many sales you need a month to cover your costs. If the numbers do not work on paper, they will not work in the shop.
Sort the paperwork
Registration, licences and tax obligations depend on what you do and where. Check the current requirements with the relevant authorities, and consider an accountant for the first year. This guide does not replace that advice.
Set up how you get paid
Have a business account, separate from your personal one, from day one. Decide how customers will pay you, and make each way easy: transfers, cards, links or QR codes. Keep a record of every sale.
Get your first customers
Start with the people who already know you, ask them for introductions and be visible where your customers spend their time. Do a great job for the first ten, and let them do your marketing.
The short version
Start with one clear offer, do the numbers before you spend, sort the paperwork with proper advice and set up how you will get paid on day one.
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Last reviewed 26 September 2026.