A bead business sells beads, tools, and craft supplies to professional crafters and hobbyists. Inventory can be sold online or in a brick and mortar establishment, with some business owners working out of their home. Business owners have several market opportunities and revenue streams to choose from, including retail and wholesale sales.
Ready to turn your business idea into a reality? Tailor Brands is our top recommendation because it guides you through every step of the process with hands-on support.
Tailor Brands ($0 + State Fees)
Start a bead store by following these 10 steps:
- Plan your Bead Store
- Form your Bead Store into a Legal Entity
- Register your Bead Store for Taxes
- Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
- Set up Accounting for your Bead Store
- Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Bead Store
- Get Bead Store Insurance
- Define your Bead Store Brand
- Create your Bead Store Website
- Set up your Business Phone System
We have put together this simple guide to starting your bead store. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.
Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas.
STEP 1: Plan your business
A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:
- What will you name your business?
- What are the startup and ongoing costs?
- Who is your target market?
- How much can you charge customers?
Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.
What will you name your business?
Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Bead Store Name Generator
If you operate a sole proprietorship, you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.
When registering a business name, we recommend researching your business name by checking:
- Your state’s business records
- Federal and state trademark records
- Social media platforms
- Web domain availability
It’s very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.
What are the costs involved in opening a bead store?
While it is possible to start out running your bead shop out of your home, this limits the number and type of customers you are able to market to. Entrepreneurs who have realized more rapid success recommend a budget of $100,000 to $248,000, depending upon the specifics of how the business is structured. Smaller shop owners report a budget as low as $50,000, citing location as being the biggest driver of their success.
Factor in the following when determining your start-up budget:
- Building – The size of building you decide to purchase or lease should match your business goals. Make sure it caters to the needs of your target audience and that the area is not already saturated with your product.
- Business/Inventory management system – Many new business owners are tempted to forego this investment, deterred by the price tag. Consider opting for a web-based solution, where customers are charged an affordable monthly fee.
- Inventory – Your initial inventory investment should include a wide selection of beads. Having your shelves stocked with both popular and unique beads will afford you the opportunity to get to know your clientele. Armed with this knowledge, you can then start to add more to your shop’s collection.
- Website – Hosting an eCommerce site will open your business up to a whole new network of potential customers.
- Business tools – Office supplies, furniture for your shop, displays, and organizing bins.
- Marketing materials
- Insurance
There are a number of franchising opportunities in this industry. The average franchise fee is $25,000, but many have found that the education and guidance they received was invaluable. If given the opportunity, purchasing an already established business is also a great strategy.
What are the ongoing expenses for a bead store?
Your primary expenses will be payroll, rent/mortgage payment, and inventory restocking. If a website is part of your portfolio, site hosting and management costs will be associated with that, typically paid either monthly or annually.
To ensure you remain on top of the latest trends, it is also recommended that you attend conferences and join associations, such as the Craft Industry Alliance. This will provide powerful networking and marketing opportunities that might otherwise be out of your reach.
Who is the target market?
Bead shops generally rely on the local population to support their business. With the right online marketing plan, you could reach crafters and bead enthusiasts across the country. Artists who make and sell jewelry, clothing, and costumes should also be included in your marketing strategy.
How does a bead store make money?
Bead shops generate revenue through the sale of their beading inventory. Items can be sold online, out of their home, or in a shop. Many entrepreneurs serve both retail and wholesalers’ needs, while others choose to focus on just one type of customer.
How much can you charge customers?
Bead prices vary, depending upon the type, size, quality, and material. Shop owners recommend going 25-40% higher than an item’s cost. Some report as much as 100% over inventory cost. The key is to remain competitive without undercutting the competition, which only stands to damage the entire industry.
How much profit can a bead store make?
With the right vision, marketing strategy, and hard work, a bead shop has the potential to generate significant profits for new business owners. Your profits are directly tied to the size and type of operation you envision, ranging anywhere from $38,000 to $75,000 or more.
How can you make your business more profitable?
Shop owners reporting the highest profits do not rely solely on the sale of beads. Some are drawn to the artistic side, making and selling their own beads. Additionally, hosting jewelry parties is a very effective strategy. The key is to host a variety of classes/parties that target specific skill levels and projects. Children’s birthday parties is another great revenue generator. Many store owners have also found success selling project kits for novice crafters.
Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC’s free Small Business Startup Guide – a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!
STEP 2: Form a legal entity
One crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked when starting your bead store is the importance of establishing a solid business foundation. While sole proprietorships and partnerships are the most common entity types for small businesses, they’re a far less stable and advantageous option than LLCs.
This is because unincorporated business structures (i.e., sole proprietorships and partnerships) expose you as an owner to personal liability for your business’s debts and legal actions, while LLCs protect you by keeping your personal assets separate from your business’s liabilities.
In practice, this means that if your bead store were to face a lawsuit or incur any debts, your savings, home, and other personal assets could not be used to cover these costs. On top of this, forming your business as an LLC also helps it to appear more legitimate and trustworthy.
Ready to Turn Your Business Idea Into a Reality?
Tailor Brands is our top recommendation because it guides you through every step of the formation process with hands-on support — from paperwork and compliance to devising a detailed plan to help you achieve your business goals.
Note: If you’re interested in more information before getting started, we recommend having a look at our How to Start a Business guide (DIY) or our in-depth Best Business Formation Services review (for those opting for a professional service).
STEP 3: Register for taxes
You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.
In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It’s really easy and free!
You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website. If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?
There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.
STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card
Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.
When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil.
Open a business bank account
Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:
- Separates your personal assets from your company’s assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
- Makes accounting and tax filing easier.
Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.
Get a business credit card
Getting a business credit card helps you:
- Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business’ expenses all in one place.
- Build your company’s credit history, which can be useful to raise money later on.
Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.
STEP 5: Set up business accounting
Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.
Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.
STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses
Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.
State & Local Business Licensing Requirements
Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a bead store business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits.
Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses.
Certificate of Occupancy
A bead store business is generally run out of a storefront. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO). A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.
- If you plan to lease a location:
- It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
- Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a bead store business.
- After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
- If you plan to purchase or build a location:
- You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
- Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your bead store business will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.
STEP 7: Get business insurance
Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.
There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance. This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.
Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance. If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers’ Compensation Coverage.
Find out what types of insurance your Bead Store needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Bead Store.
STEP 8: Define your brand
Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.
If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator. Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.
How to promote & market a bead store
Industry leaders have found the most success with a diverse marketing plan. This should include advertisements in magazines that cater to your target audience and event/team sponsorships. Before taking on a sponsorship, make sure you are investing in something that will offer you exposure to potential bead shop patrons. Booths at arts and crafts fairs is also an effective way to boost interest, particularly because these events often have a mix of local and out-of-town guests.
Technology is another great resource for marketing. Social media platforms help reach a broader audience and keep current customers informed regarding new shipments and specials. Ask customers for their email addresses and periodically send out exclusive coupons.
How to keep customers coming back
Delivering superior customer service each time someone walks through your doors or places an order online is critical to your business’ success. Many consumers will pay a little higher price to know they are working with someone who cares enough to go the extra mile. Discount cards are also an effective way to bring new customers in and ensure your current ones keep coming back.
STEP 9: Create your business website
After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business.
While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.
Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:
- All legitimate businesses have websites – full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
- Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
- Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.
Recommended: Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders.
Other popular website builders are: WordPress, WIX, Weebly, Squarespace, and Shopify.
STEP 10: Set up your business phone system
Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.
There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2024 to find the best phone service for your small business.
Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com
Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it’s fair pricing.
Is this Business Right For You?
Owning and managing a retail business requires hard work, dedication, and long hours. Entrepreneurs who love the craft and enjoy learning and educating others about various beads will find fulfillment and success in this business venture.
Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?
Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!
What happens during a typical day at a bead store?
As mentioned, bead shop owners have a variety of opportunities to generate income. The specifics of their days will be defined by how they decide to structure the business.
Day-to-day duties include the following:
- Checking stock, reordering inventory when necessary
- Keeping retail showroom clean and orderly
- Researching new trends, collaborating with regular customers to identify which new styles are relevant to your area
- Marketing to target audience
- Networking and maintaining relationships with bead suppliers
- Maintaining website and fill online orders
- Administrative duties
What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful bead store?
Industry leaders urge those first starting out to learn as much as they can about running a business, as well as the art of beading. There are a variety of online tutorials that would provide beneficial education and training. Local craft supply and fabric stores often hold regular workshops, which could expand your knowledge on the various elements of running such a business. Since hands-on experience is the best teacher, working in the industry prior to opening your shop’s door is strongly recommended. Caravan Beads is also a great educational resource. They offer a 2-day seminar, where students learn about everything from pricing to marketing, and even choosing the right POS software.
To realize long-term success, it is also important that you possess a certain level of artistic talent. This, combined with strong interpersonal skills will assist you in interacting with customers and suppliers. Many of your clients will be novice hobbyists who will look to you for education and guidance.
What is the growth potential for a bead store?
According to a Association for Creative Industries survey, crafters spend more $30 billion annually. Approximately 40% of that is earned from the sale of beads. While there is significant room for growth, new business owners are urged to carefully select their store’s location to avoid over saturation.
Take the Next Step
Find a business mentor
One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.
Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.
Learn from other business owners
Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.
Resources to Help Women in Business
There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:
- Funding
- Events
- Guides
- Support
If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.
What are some insider tips for jump starting a bead store?
Leaders in the beading industry offer the following advice:
- Consult with your local chamber of commerce prior to opening your online store to ensure you handle the collection of sales tax properly.
- To ensure a profitable website, make sure you provide great photos and descriptions of your products, and that you clearly define your store policies.
- Joining the International Art Materials Association offers access to discounts, suppliers, education, and networking opportunities.
- Avoid suppliers that offer “one-stop shopping.” To properly supply your shop, you will need multiple suppliers and a variety of beads. Conduct thorough research on any supplier you are considering.
- Research the population in the area you plan to open up shop. If the area does not have between 150,000 and 250,000 people within a thirty minute drive, consider other, more populated areas.
- Plan on putting a majority of your profits back into inventory for the first two to three years.
How and when to build a team
In this industry, it is important that you always remain passionate about what you do. To avoid burnout, yet still remain open during peak business hours, consider opening your store with at least one employee on staff. As the owner, you will be required to wear many hats. Your business will suffer if important tasks slip through the cracks.