Online kimono and japanese garment boutique

People buying for gifts, ceremonies, cultural events, photo shoots, costume and anime events, home decor, or to wear as jackets and robes.

Mark-up on each garment, with one-off vintage pieces priced higher and new yukata or accessories sold in steadier volume. Some sellers add styling guides or dressing help.

• Good product photography and honest descriptions
• Knowledge of kimono types, fabrics and occasions
• Sourcing and negotiating with suppliers
• Customer service

• Import duties, taxes and shipping paperwork: check with the Canada Border Services Agency and consider a customs broker
• Textile labelling and product description rules, check the Competition Bureau's guidance on fibre content and origin claims
• GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold, plus provincial sales tax rules where you sell
• Sizing and returns: kimono sizing is different from Western sizing, so write clear policies
• Check business licence rules with your municipality if you store stock at home
• Be accurate about age, condition and authenticity of vintage pieces

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on how much stock you buy, how you source it and what you spend on your website and photography. Treat this as a rough estimate.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $600 to $3,500, depending on your range, pricing, photography and how many customers you attract. These are revenue estimates before stock, shipping and other costs.

Check import duties, taxes and shipping paperwork with the Canada Border Services Agency, and consider a customs broker. Also check Competition Bureau guidance on textile labelling and fibre content, and GST/HST registration once you pass the small supplier threshold.