I CAN do it!

OK. So now you've decided that you think you are ready to try your hand at crafting for a living. Well, don't quit you day job, yet!!

One of the first things you'll really need to ponder is your business name. Some artist simply use their name, or a version of their name. For example: Dawn Smith, Dawn Smith Studio, Designs by Dawn, Designs by Dawn Smith, D. Smith Studio, D.S. Studio, etc.

Some points to consider are:

• Is it easy to say? People need to be able to say your business name. When you think of something, say it out loud. Several times. Does it roll off the tongue or is it more of a tongue twister? If customers can't say your name, how will they refer you to friends and family? Think word-of-mouth!
• Is it easy to spell? If you intend on having a website or be listed in the phonebook, you want customers to be able to find you! If they can't spell the name of your business, this task will be very difficult.
• Is it flexible? "Stained Glass by Dawn" might be too specific. It doesn't leave much room for expansion into other forms of art.
• Does it fit your image? Cute name = cute product. Sophisticated name = sophisticated product.
• Is it available? This one is a little tricky. For obvious reasons you do not want to choose a name that has a copyright, trademark, or is otherwise registered. Start by checking the phonebook and doing a search engine check.

Next, we'll cover fonts for your business name.