How to Start a Home-Based Children's Birthday Party Business »

Amy Jean Peters is the codeveloper of a home-based children’s birthday party business based in Madison, Connecticut. Developed on a shoestring budget in 2004, Art Escapades was almost immediately profitable. Peters is also the author of several business books, including How to Sell Jewelry on eBay.

From first birthdays to sweet sixteens, the children’s birthday party business is booming and offers an ideal entrée for those hoping to start a home-based business with low financial risk.

How to Start a Home-Based Children’s Birthday Party Business

TOC

Chapter 1  Happy Birthday Party Business to You!

            Why Now Is the Moment

            The Key Characteristics of a Children’s Party Planner

            An Honest Self-Assessment   

            Challenges of the Field

            Opportunities in a Rapidly Growing Area

Chapter 2 Envisioning Your Business

            From Princesses to Ponies, What Type of Party Business

            Choosing Where to Conduct Parties

            Who Is the Audience for Your New Business?

            Weighing Part-Time and Full-Time Options

            Specialization 

Chapter 3 Creating Your Home Work Space

            Setting Up a Dedicated Work Space  

            Buying Office Equipment

            Selecting and Purchasing Party Supplies

            Zoning Issues 

Applying for Licenses 

            Choosing Insurance

            Keeping It Professional

Chapter 4 Ready, Set, Start

            Writing a Business Plan

            Research, Research, Research          

            Keeping an Eye on the Competition

            Creating a Niche

            Naming Your Business

            Crafting a Compelling Mission Statement

            Selecting a Business Structure          

                        Sole Proprietorship     

                         General Partnership

                        Incorporation  

                        Limited Liability Company

Chapter 5 Hanging out Your Shingle

            Start Spreading the News

            Avoiding Common Early Mistakes

            The First Event

            From Cakes to Party Hats, Finding the Right Suppliers

            Developing References and Referrals

            Documenting Your Successes

Chapter 6 Planning Your Finances

            How Much Do You Hope to Earn?

            Being Realistic About Earning and Spending

Financing Your Business

Pricing Goods and Services

             Determining a Budget

Chapter 7 Tracking Your Money