Neighborhood baby boutique

Expecting and new parents in your area, plus gift buyers for baby showers and newborns.

You sell at retail prices above wholesale cost. Registry services, gift items and add-ons such as accessories can bring in steady extra sales.

• Product knowledge and honest advice
• Buying and stock control
• Customer service
• Basic bookkeeping

• Check city or county business license rules, zoning for retail use, and state sales tax registration
• Children's products must meet federal safety rules (CPSC); check testing and labeling requirements for what you stock
• Car seats and cribs have strict safety standards and recalls, so buy from authorized suppliers and keep a recall-checking routine
• Check your state's rules on selling used or secondhand baby gear before adding it
• Get general liability and product liability insurance, plus property cover for stock
• Stock ties up cash and bulky items need storage space, so start with a focused range
• A lease is a big commitment, so have a lawyer review it before signing

Startup costs are typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your location, lease, shop fit-out and how much stock you buy. Starting with a focused range can help, since stock ties up cash.

Check city or county business license rules, retail zoning and state sales tax registration. Children's products must meet federal CPSC safety rules, and car seats and cribs have strict standards and recalls, so buy from authorized suppliers.

Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your location, range, foot traffic and opening hours. These are estimates only, and rent, stock and staffing costs come out of that revenue.