What Do I Need to START a Business?

What Do I Need to START a Business?

Starting a business can feel overwhelming, but trust me, you’ve got this! The key is breaking it down into manageable steps and tackling each one thoughtfully. In most states—if not all—you’ll need to start with some basic homework. Don’t worry; most of this early work won’t cost you a thing.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure

First things first: what kind of business do you want to create? The legal structure you choose will affect everything from how much you pay in taxes to how much personal liability you have. Here are some common options:

• Sole Proprietorship: The simplest and quickest to set up, but you take on full personal liability for the business.

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Offers more protection for your personal assets while keeping things relatively simple.

• Corporation: Best for larger businesses with complex needs, but it comes with more paperwork and regulations.

Take some time to research which structure is best for your business goals and consult a professional if needed.

Step 2: Pick and Secure Your Business Name

Have you landed on the perfect name? Great! But before you get too attached, you’ll need to check if it’s available.

• Head to the IRS.gov website to search for your business name and ensure it’s not already taken.

• Many states also have their own database for business name availability—make sure to check there as well.

• Once you confirm your name is unique, lock it in! This is the name your customers will come to know and trust.

Step 3: Get Your EIN Number

Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) is essentially your business’s social security number. It’s required for things like opening a business bank account and filing taxes. The best part? It’s free and easy to get online through the IRS website.

Step 4: Secure Your Online Presence

In today’s world, your online identity is just as important as your legal setup. This includes your domain name and social media handles.

• Domain Name: Your domain is your business’s digital address—think www.mybusinessname.com. Even if you’re not ready to build a website, buy your domain now to prevent someone else from snatching it up. Platforms like GoDaddy or Namecheap make it simple.

• Social Media Handles: Consistency is key here. Your social media names should match or be as close as possible to your business name. This makes it easier for customers to find and recognize you. Start with these platforms:

  • Meta (Facebook)

  • X (formerly Twitter)

  • Instagram

  • TikTok

  • Twitch

  • Snapchat

  • BlueSky

It’s worth checking all these platforms even if you’re not planning to use them right away. Securing your handle now will save you headaches later.

Step 5: Time to Get Busy!

Once you’ve handled the basics, you’re officially in motion. This is where the real fun (and hard work) begins. Stay organized, keep learning, and remember—every big business started somewhere. You’re building the foundation for something amazing, one step at a time.

Pro Tips to Keep in Mind:

• Research Local Requirements: Some states or cities have specific permits or licenses you may need.

• Start a Business Bank Account: Keep your personal and business finances separate to make accounting easier.

• Plan for Taxes: Consult with a tax professional early on to understand your responsibilities.

Starting a business isn’t just about paperwork and social media—it’s about bringing your vision to life. Take it one step at a time, and you’ll be surprised at what you can achieve.

Have more questions on how to get started, let me know on the Contact Me page.

Finding Your Voice: A Beginner’s Guide to Showing Up Online

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Cultivating Your Business Garden: Which Relationships to Water, Which to Weed

In every garden, there are plants that flourish with just a bit of care — and others that struggle, no matter how much water or sunlight you give. Relationships in business are no different. Some nurture your growth; others quietly deplete your energy. If you want your “business garden” to thrive, you have to learn when to water and when to weed.

Recognize the Types of Relationships

• Nutrient-Rich Relationships – Mentors, partners, and friends who challenge you and celebrate your wins.
  
  

• Neutral Relationships – Connections that aren’t harmful but don’t help your growth.
  
  

• Weeds – Toxic connections that drain your time, focus, and energy.
  
  

Audit Your Garden
Every season, gardeners step back and evaluate what’s thriving and what needs to go. Do the same with your relationships. Ask yourself:

• Does this relationship add value or deplete it?
  
  

• Does this person celebrate my growth or compete with it?
  
  

• Am I investing energy without reciprocity?
  
  Learn to Prune with Grace
  Letting go doesn’t always require a dramatic conversation. Sometimes it’s as simple as creating space, setting boundaries, or reducing engagement with those who don’t support your growth.
  Example script:

“I’m focusing on a few key priorities right now, so I won’t be able to commit to that.”

Nurture the Right Connections
Relationships thrive with intentionality. Make time to check in, share wins, and celebrate others. Invest in the people and partnerships that align with your values and vision.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Collaboration Over Competition: Building a Supportive Network

There was a time when I thought I had to do it all alone. I wore “I don’t need help” like a badge of honor — until I realized that isolation was slowing my growth. The moment I opened myself to collaboration, everything changed.

The Myth of Going Solo
Many entrepreneurs believe success means grinding in silence, but doing it alone often leads to burnout and missed opportunities.

Competition says: There’s not enough to go around.
Collaboration says: There’s room for all of us to grow.

The Power of Community
Building a supportive network gives you:

• Access to perspectives you wouldn’t find alone
  
  

• Shared resources, ideas, and referrals
  
  

• A safety net during hard seasons
  
  

During my early days with Embrace, collaborations with other small businesses helped us co-host events and share marketing efforts that grew everyone’s reach.

Practical Ways to Build Your Network

• Show up: Attend events, join masterminds, or participate in virtual groups.
  
  

• Give before you expect: Share your knowledge, connections, and support freely.
  
  

• Be genuine: Focus on relationships, not transactions.
  
  

Shifting the Mindset
Start celebrating others’ wins. Someone else’s success doesn’t diminish yours — it often expands what’s possible for you, too.

Call to Action
This week, reach out to one person in your network. Celebrate their progress, offer support, or simply connect. One conversation can be the start of a collaboration that changes everything.