Women's clothing boutique shop

Local women, gift buyers and returning customers who value personal service and try-on.

Markup on items sold in store and online, with seasonal sales and gift purchases adding to income.

• Buying and choosing stock
• Customer service and styling advice
• Basic bookkeeping and inventory control

• Commercial leases can be long and costly, have it reviewed before signing
• Check local business license, sales tax permit and signage rules with your city or county
• General liability and property insurance
• Stock bought in advance may not sell, keep a cash cushion
• Seasonal swings in sales

Startup costs are typically around $20,000 to $90,000, depending on your premises, stock and setup. These are estimates. Stock bought in advance may not sell, so keep a cash cushion beyond your opening costs.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on location, range and customer numbers. The estimate assumes at least about 35 hours a week. Sales can swing with the seasons, so plan your cash flow.

Have any commercial lease reviewed before signing, since leases can be long and costly. Check local business license, sales tax permit and signage rules with your city or county. Also arrange general liability and property insurance.