Online bridal boutique with pop-ups

Brides who want a more affordable or personal option, plus bridesmaids and guests buying accessories and gifts.

Margin on accessories and gowns, plus fees or deposits for try-on appointments that are credited toward a purchase.

• Social media and photography
• Online selling
• Customer service
• Organizing orders and shipping

• Register for a state sales tax permit and check rules for online sales into other states
• Check whether your city or county requires a business license, especially for pop-up events
• Get general liability insurance, and check what event venues require
• Returns and sizing problems are common with gowns, set a clear policy
• If you run it from home, check zoning, HOA and lease rules for storing stock

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your stock, website setup and how many pop-ups or rented rooms you run. Set a clear returns and sizing policy before you buy inventory.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on your product range, pricing and how often you hold try-on events. The estimate assumes at least about 10 hours a week of work.

Check that you register for a state sales tax permit, and look at the rules for online sales into other states. Ask your city or county about a business license for pop-ups, and get general liability insurance. If you store stock at home, check zoning, HOA and lease rules.