THE MARKETING AND SALES PLAN

The overview is a general explanation of your business and product. Specifically describe what you design and weather it targets high - end, mass. or niche markets, or fits an important lifestyle trend. Include the attributes that make your product unique and different from the competition. This is one of the most interesting parts of the plan in which you explore the market and opportunities for your product. Be realistic about your market potential. Rather than focus on $1,200 dresses, you may have a better chance at success and profit designing for underserved markets such as plus size, marketing, or bridal. A designer can apply style and humor to any of these markets and fill a need. Each market is unique. For example, industry experts point out that the men's clothing business is more difficult than women's because the number of stores which service men is significantly smaller, there are less items to design, and its more difficult to grow the business exponentially each season design and production are easier in men's wear because you don't have to chase the trends and the shapes stay much the same each season. When researching the market, Don't forget the other forces that influence demand for your product. The weather plays a major role in the success of a coast business, and swimwear designers should focus on the sunny states where a hat and glove business would be less  active. How old are they, A customer may be influenced by trends or focused on the classics. A customer may be particular about fit, comfort, or glamour and might be motivated by brand, innovation, or luxury materials. Be able to picture your customer and keep that mental image with you at all times. While you should not outsource the plan, there are a lot of resources to help you. Classes are offered by the Small Business Administration, and at a variety of schools including fashion schools such as the fashion institute of Technology in New York. School of Design that included writing a plan and she says the process was really helpful. When choosing a company name, please don't use the word couture. Yes, Juicy Couture got away with it, but couture is the most commonly ill - used word in  American fashion. For a design to be considered couture, it must meet a number of stringent requirements regarding the amount of work done by hand, the materials used, the number of employees, or in a few select places, Outline your plan to hire a salesperson or showroom, to attend tradeshows, or build a website. Include promotional plans to support sales with press kits, runway shows, travel for in - store appearances, and catalog buys. Be cautious when choosing a partner. Network your way into the industry and consult with manufacturing, PR, and showroom people. This initial meeting should be free. Ask about their background and understanding of fashion. Make sure they explain things to you clearly in easy - to - understand language. You need someone with whom you feel comfortable and can communicate freely. Ask them how to keep the costs down and see if they are open to barter. Product, seats at a runaway show, and creative consulting can be enticing to business professionals. Many firms encourage their attorneys and accountants to do pro bono work for emerging designers and artists and they enjoy the change from their daily routine. Take notes on important conversation and meetings. Always try to resolve disputes without suing because it is expensive, time consuming, and there are no guarantees that you will win. Initially, most designers run the business and handle the major responsibilities themselves, but at Good credit opens doors. If you have confirmed orders, try and negotiate and payment terms with suppliers. Twinkle started with $900 in yarn and knitting needles. Each day, money flows out for equipment and supplies, rent and utilities, look books, postages, and more.