By now, you have some idea as to what kind of venture you want to tackle. And you have pretty well determined where you want to locate your new business. Of course money is going to be a strong factor in how much space you have to begin; but I encourage you to not cramp yourself too tightly because this kind of business can grow by leaps and bounds.

Break your shop into sections. The number and kinds of areas will be determined by the needs you will have to perform the kind of business you are wanting. Imagine if you will:

an area for mold production,
an area for firing,
an area for greenware,
an area for bisque,
an area for supplies,
a classroom for open workshop,
a classroom for formal training/classes,
areas for display of projects or featured activities, or promotions,
a check out area,
a possible lounge area,
a possible children’s corner,
an area for finished giftware

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Indeed, it is not to soon to plan for the upcoming ceramic show season.

Phoenix AZ —- Jan 8 - Jan 9
San Bernardino CA —- Jan 15 - Jan 16
Orlando FL —- Feb 4 - Feb 6
Atlanta GA —-Feb 26 - Feb 27

Many companies offer special discounts for pre-show orders, so get with your favorite companies now and verify their attendance to the upcoming shows, their new products and for new mold releases.

Now is the time to get a jump-start to provide your customers with the newest and the latest items available. Get those budgets made, start saving $$, pre-advertise if you find something new and exciting for you customers.

Surf that net and reel in the savings.

About 15 years ago, I was interviewed by the editors of Arts & Crafts Magazine, a leading ceramic publication at that time. During the interview, I was asked what I saw for the future of ceramics. I prophesied that in order to survive, Ceramic Shops/studios would need to turn to the internet in order to compete and succeed.

Today, I repeat the mantra. It is imperative that you utilize the internet in promoting your business and your product. Everyone, whether you are a fully functioning store, a home studio, a hobbyist wanting to sell some wares, or someone making and selling finished items on any scale, the web can make the difference of coasting along or really succeeding. Buyers are loving the ability to search the net and find new products and ideas, they are loving the convenience. Don’t you want to receive part of the millions of dollars being spent daily on the internet?

It does not have to be fancy, but an internet presence with your own website is crucial. It is no longer the matter of saying, ‘maybe one of these days’ - it is NOW. The future is here. Face it, you are using the internet-you’re here, so why limit yourself to only doing the surfing and buying?

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