MILLINERY BUSINESS PLANS

I'm in the process of creating my first "proper" collection for 2013. I want to write up a 5 year business plan to use it as a tool for planning my millinery career and approaching stockists etc. Does anyone know of any websites where you can download useful template business plans for free? Or do you have an example you could share? I'm finding that most business plans on the web are just not designed for creative industries.

Any advice re business plan content greatly appreciated!

Thanks
VMM

Tags: Essential Discussions, business, plan, starting, up

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Permalink Reply by Bridget Early September 8, 2012 at 9:02am

I would visit your local library for books. It would be very similar to any other business plan. Cost vs expected revenue, where will you market, process for production, process for marketing/who is your market, sales goals, revenue goals, where will you obtain supplies, necessary equipment, where will you produce your product, who will produce the product, etc. When it comes right down to a business plan, it isn't really so different than another business. I do applaud your effort to write a business plan. It is a great way to set goals and stay focused. I have a loose outline, that I am reworking now.

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Permalink Reply by Vivienne Morgan Millinery September 8, 2012 at 9:38pm

Thanks for the encouragement, Bridget. As you suggested I am tailoring a standard template business plan. I'm finding it quite tricky to do the market analysis and projected revenue sections but haven't given up yet...!

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Permalink Reply by 1fi9iq6yxs6ig September 10, 2012 at 9:26pm

Hi Vivienne

I think that a millinery business is a cross between fashion and art. I wonder if you have any Arts organisations in your area? We have a Crafts Council which supports arts businesses and also regional Arts councils for non-metropolitan areas. Sometimes a chat with the local arts co-ordinator could help? Also, local commerce associations may also have advice and maybe the Fashion unit of local technical college. Not sure if this applies to your area, but sometimes a word with the right person can save hours on the net.

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Permalink Reply by Vivienne Morgan Millinery September 11, 2012 at 12:42am

Thats excellent advice, thanks. Unfortunately the UAE is a bit of a craft/ art black hole...! The upside of that however is that there is limited competition out here. I have however identified some organisations back in the UK that I will try and contact.

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Permalink Reply by Theresa Baughman September 12, 2012 at 5:50am

If you are familiar with etsy.com I would recommend their seller handbook. There are tons of articles and links and pdfs about starting, running and maintaining a business. If you aren't familiar with the site I would encourage you to check it out! It's a community of artists of all kinds and free to set up an account.

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Permalink Reply by Elaine Mergard September 16, 2012 at 7:21pm

Before I commenced Hat Academy I purchased a CD Business Plan from the Qld Govt ($17.) and completed the 50 page plan but probably not available out side Australia. Check the Govt Page it may be helpful

http://www.business.qld.gov.au/business/starting/business-planning/...

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Permalink Reply by Elaine Mergard September 16, 2012 at 7:27pm

https://www.bookshop.qld.gov.au/ProdView.aspx?popup=1&Product=B...

The Easy Plan CD I used. If you made enquiries as to cost of extra postage overseas they may sell to you.

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Permalink Reply by Vivienne Morgan Millinery September 17, 2012 at 4:11am

Thanks for all your help. Im getting there thanks to all these useful links!

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Permalink Reply by Princess WOW! Hats September 25, 2012 at 8:49pm

I just completed a business plan. Contact the Small Business Administration in your area. They have a templete and advisors who will help you with your plan and financial projections. They are very helpful. Mindy, Princess WOW! Hats

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Permalink Reply by Elaine Mergard March 9, 2013 at 10:05pm

This Business Plan was recommended by a milliner. Even if you do not buy the end product which is listed as US$97. work through the four vital questions especially the one that asks -"What is unique about You?"

You will enjoy the diagramatic presentation and you may find the templates just what you need.

BusinessPlanTemplate.growthink.com -Elaine

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Permalink Reply by 1fi9iq6yxs6ig April 26, 2013 at 6:17pm

This looks a really good model, Elaine - I'm putting a few ideas together and may invest in it.

MILLINERY BUSINESS PLANS

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