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, by Chloe

Use Your Arts & Crafts Skills To Setup A Creative Little Shop - And Cheaply

There’s nothing quite like applying a skill for the purposes of being self-employed and becoming financially independent. Maybe a full time job doesn’t suit you anymore after you’ve been solely a fantastic mother for the last 20 years. Maybe you want something different, and feel like starting a project to fill your days.

If you have the urge to open your own little curiosity shop, the time has never been better. There are many ways you can open a store for free, and operate your own little limited company. Whether you’re into selling arts and crafts, or objects you’ve made, you’d be surprised at how cheaply you can operate as long as you pay wise attention to the fundamentals.

Here are a few tips and opportunities that could allow you to thrive in your chosen selling field.

Rent Cheaply & Renovate

You might think that opening and running a little shop space could be very expensive. It needn’t be. You can save much initial startup cost by renting a space that hasn’t been fully renovated yet, or could use work. Hiring a firm like Analogue Electrics that can effectively sort out the electrics from your own expense could allow you to get even lesser rental reductions in exchange for utilizing the space. The landlord will be very appreciative of you coming in and occupying his otherwise unused space like this.

Promote For Free

The online social networking boom means that you needn’t have to pay for ad space in a newspaper or worry about getting posters made to promote your new shop. It can be as simple as making a social media page for free and asking your friends to share that page around. Make the page look attractive and post informative and interesting submissions about what you do and who you are, and you’re bound to generate some interest.

Home-Made Decoration

Decorating the actual shop needn’t be a difficult and expensive affair. All you’ll need is some shelves to house your products and some good old-fashioned love. If you run a creative shop, like one that sells reupholstered and redecorated furniture, you’re likely in possession of the skillset that can allow you to thrive when it comes to decorating the store cheaply. Use your best judgment.

Take Commissions

As well as selling your standard product range, be sure to take commissions from people if that’s applicable. Most creative crafts stores will do this as a means of generating further income. If someone would like you to repaint their dressing table, then be sure to do it. These contracts can help you out of a lull in sales if there is one. Be sure to run promotions to try and generate interest in your store continually.

Have An Online Component

Online web hosting is important. Sites like Squarespace can help you set up a cheap, attractive website for free without draining your wallet. It’s important to have your product line available online, so it’s viewable for many different people.

With these steps in mind, your creative business is sure to blossom.

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, by Chloe

What You Need For a Trip to the Seaside

A trip to the seaside is a real treat when the weather is nice and the whole family has some time off. Sun, sea and sand is just what the doctor ordered to come back refreshed. Adults can relax and attempt to get a tan, while kids make sandcastles and splash about in the sea. When the day is finished, there’s nothing nicer than a visit to the fish and chip shop for some fresh fish and piping hot chips. So, what do you need to know to make your trip to the seaside perfect for everyone?

Pack Essentials

Whether the seaside is on your doorstep or miles away, you’ll still need to pack a few essentials to make the day a success. For example, you’ll all need beach towels to dry you off if you go in the water, and in the absence of chairs, they’re perfect for sitting on, on the sand. You may also need a bucket and a spade for the kids, although they can usually be purchased along the sea front at peak times. Pack some light snacks and drinks, along with sun cream, hats and sunglasses.

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Getting There

For the lucky few, it may mean taking a few steps across the road to get to the beach. But, for most of us it’s a long travel to authentic seaside. If you’re packing up the car, you may want to do a few checks before you go. For example, checking the oil, water and tyres. You may also want to plan ahead when it comes to parking. Summer is a busy time at the seaside. If you don’t want to drive, there are always coach trips that run to the seaside every year. You can find some here.

Stay Longer

Visiting the seaside doesn’t have to be a 24 hour deal. In fact, many British families with young children prefer it to going abroad. Consider staying longer than one day to get your full taste of the seaside. There are usually caravan sites nearby that suitable for camping or allow families to book static caravans. If a camp site isn’t your thing, take a look at Lyme Bay House for some ideas instead. Imagine waking up to a cooked breakfast at the edge of the sea front – heaven!

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Entertainment

What’s going on in the area while you’re visiting? Seaside towns will often make the most of the Summer months by piling on the entertainment. After all, it’s their biggest opportunity to make money. Do some research and find out what entertainment is on at the time of your visit and if you need to book tickets in advance. It could be anything from face painting at the beach to mini-golf or a full circus.

Safety

The seaside will be busy, so use your common sense. Don’t leave valuables unattended. Don’t let your children swim out too far. Keep a close eye on young children wherever you are and stay hydrated throughout the day to avoid feeling unwell.