Launch Your Dream Business on a Budget: Six Cost-Saving Tips to Get Started
Starting a new business is a super exciting time! The enthusiasm is contagious, and the possibilities are limitless. Many entrepreneurs initially start their businesses as a side hustle, whether it's alongside their current job, while caring for their children, or even while pursuing further education. That's exactly how I started my web design business as well. During my maternity leave with my first child, I began taking on freelance projects until I felt confident enough to dive in and turn it into my primary focus!
I help a lot of small and independent business owners - usually getting their first website up and running, so I thought I'd give you my six best tips for starting a business without breaking the bank. And remember, just because you're on a budget doesn't mean you have to look cheap - it's all about making the most of the amazing tools out there to support you in the beginning stages of your business.
Stock Images:
Before you have a portfolio to show off or can have a professional photoshoot, I suggest utilising free stock image websites like Pexels.com, Unsplash.com, or Pixabay.com. These sites can help you gather a collection of images to use on your website, social media, and marketing materials. They offer a vast selection of professional pictures that cater to various industries. Here's a handy tip: try to find images that match your brand colours.
Professional Images:
For service-based businesses, it's a great idea to have some photos of yourself on your website. I understand that some people don’t like it, but it helps clients feel more connected and builds trust. If you don't have a recent professional photo, consider booking a mini-brand shoot with a local photographer. They often offer sessions lasting 30-60 minutes, outdoors or in a public space. Typically you get around 5 images with the option to buy more. Photographers can offer these shoots at a lower rate since they have multiple clients in one day and don't need to rent a studio. All of the professional photos on my website were taken on mini-brand shoots! The most recent one I booked was a 30-minute session with Carin Thakrar in Covent Garden.
Website Words:
Creating content for your website can be challenging! I understand - whenever I try to write about myself, I struggle to find the right words! However, you don't have to stick to boring bullet points; there are many affordable ways to write your own content with the help of a professional copywriter. The first DIY option I recommend is Jess Jordana’s Promptlates. What’s a “Promptlate”? In Jess’ own words “Imagine: 50% Prompts + 50% Templates to get you 100% more connection and more clients with your copy”. I bought these when I first began and they were incredibly helpful! They provided video instructions, a template to follow, and most importantly, they helped me put my ideas into writing! Just remember, your initial version doesn't have to be the final one. You can always revisit and make changes once your website is up and running.
Need some help with copywriting? Well, here's my second recommendation: try out the Site Day Trip from Latitude Lane. They offer an editing service that's top-notch. Hollie, the expert, will go through your words, give you detailed recommendations (complete with a video walk-through), and even set up a 30-minute Zoom call to answer any questions you may have. I absolutely adore Hollie from Tonica! She's the one who crafted the words for my website, and let me tell you, she goes into great detail. If you've already got the basics of your content down but want to take it up a notch, this service is perfect for you!
Launch your website
It will be no surprise here that I recommend Squarespace as the platform to use for your website! They’re affordable (often have a discount running on your first annual subscription), user-friendly, offer fantastic customer service and have great templates to use as a starting point. If you don’t fancy DIY’ing your own website, there are many professional templates available to purchase for specific industries that come with online set up courses and complimentary support. A few of my favourite template providers are: Kate Scott, Glo Creative and Go Live.
If you're looking to bring in the pros and get a sleek, strategic, SEO-optimised website made just for you, then my Website In A Day service might be exactly what you need (*sorry for the shameless self promo). In just one day, we can create a unique 5-page website, link your domain, and give your business the online presence it deserves. After the launch, you'll have access to a collection of video tutorials that will guide you through updating and managing your website, along with 30 days of free email support.
Social Media & Marketing materials
If you haven't come across Canva yet, prepare to have your mind blown! Canva is like a user-friendly version of Photoshop, where you can easily drag and drop elements to create stunning designs. It offers a wide range of templates for social media, logos, marketing, presentations, and even websites (although I wouldn't recommend building your entire website on Canva). The best part is that they have a free version that covers a lot of features, so you can definitely get started without spending a penny. And if you ever need more advanced features, their Pro plan is quite affordable at around £11 per month, especially when compared to other design software options. Try out Canva HERE (please note, this is an affiliate link).
Schedule Appointments & Bookings
If you want to offer free discovery calls, 1:1 appointments or any other type of booking that requires scheduling a date and time, think of Calendly as your new PA. No more back-and-forth emails trying to work out a date, simply share a link on your website or in your email signature. Connect your calendar to prevent overlapping bookings and choose specific times you're free.
Calendly also offers a premium version for those interested in charging for bookings like a 1:1 power hour or consultation. You can easily accept payments by connecting Stripe and/or Paypal.
So there we have it. Six ways to start your dream business on a budget! I hope you have found this blog post helpful! I wish you the best of luck with your new business!
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