talkmagic.co.uk

I am a partner in two businesses, one small and the other medium sized, neither related to magic, it has to be said.

I have no problem with the advice provided so far, but I will underline one aspect. The business plan is key. You need to write it down, not only to get funding, from either the bank or through grants, but also to get your own thinking sorted out. Take a look at whats on the market already and ask yourself how you can differentiate your service from theirs. Its a key question and one of the first things a bank or funding body will ask you. If your going to put your house on the line, you better be sure you've got an angle. Remember that 9 out of 10 small businesses fail within the first two years of trading. And yes I am trying to scare you.

blah, blah, blah, go to market strategy, blah blah blah

PMed you Seige.

Hey Happy Toad would you mind PM'ing me the details of those companies as well please? Just for future reference you know. I might not even do this yet!

Thanks, Rich

Starting a ebay magic shop, will get you into the copyright discussion... are you ready for that one?

I'm ready if you are.

TrickyRicky did ask about wholesalers, so I can only conclude that he would be selling original effects.

Yeah, i am not trying to sell stuff that i have made myself! Im not that good!

Folks in the UK who read stuff by Sir Alan Sugar (UK version of Donald Trump!) might recall that he always advises that it's best to start a business where you already know the products or services well. The downside of this is when you take an enjoyable hobby or pastime (like magic) and turn it into a full time occupation - the danger is that once it become work it's no longer enjoyable and you lose not only your business enthusiasm but also your hobby. Also bear in mind that you need to be able to turn off from work and take a complete break every so often and that's not always easy to do. Keep all things in perspective and bear in mind that you don’t have to do it all yourself, get others to do some of the work. Like glue, if you spread yourself too thinly, you aren’t effective!

yes breaks are very important people to much stress can lead to crippleing medical conditions, so be warned and manage your time wisely.
i know of were i speak.