You've got a brilliant idea! Whether it's a creative project, a new service, or a big tech venture, every business begins with that spark. But getting started can feel like a puzzle with a million pieces. We're here to guide you through the first, most important steps.

 

Step 1: Your Idea & Your Brand

 

Your brand is the first thing people see. It’s the visual identity that makes your business memorable and sets the tone for everything you do.
 

The first step is figuring out your name and brand. Our Bronze package is designed to do exactly that. We'll find you the perfect, available name and create your complete brand foundation. This includes a professionally designed logo that captures your vision, along with your official brand colour palette and typography. We’ll also have your custom business card and flyer designs ready to print, and prepare all your social media accounts with 'coming soon' posts, so you can start building an audience from day one.
 

Our mission is to give you a professional brand that's ready to go. When we're done, you'll have everything you need to begin your business journey with confidence.

 

Step 2: Understanding Your Business

 

Once you have your name and brand, it's time to make your business official. The main thing you need to decide is how to officially register your business.
 

• Going Solo: If you're planning to run things by yourself, you'll probably register as a Sole Trader. It’s the most simple way to start and is common for freelance graphic designers, mobile personal trainers, photographers, or tradespeople.
   

• With a Partner: If you want to go into business with one or more people, you’ll set up a Partnership. This means you'll share profits and responsibilities with your business partner(s).
   

• Getting a Team or Investment: If you're building a bigger company, hiring staff, or looking for investors, you'll likely set up a Limited Company. It's more official and protects your personal finances. This is the typical structure for marketing agencies, e-commerce brands, software development companies, or restaurants.

 

Step 3: Becoming Official

 

Your next step will be to register your business with HMRC, the government department that handles taxes.
 

• How do I do that? It’s easy! You register online through the official GOV.UK website. The form will ask for your personal and business details.
   

• What’s involved? You will need your National Insurance number and details like your business name, address, and the date you started trading.
   

• How much will it cost? Registering as a Sole Trader or Partnership is completely free. There is no cost to register with HMRC.

 

Your Professional Team

 

While you can handle some things on your own, every business needs a strong support team. An accountant and a lawyer are the two most important people to have on your side.
 

• Accountant: Think of an accountant as your business's financial co-pilot.
  They handle all the money parts of your business, like:

  • Making sure your financial records are tidy.

  • Helping you file your tax return, (which is a form you fill out to tell the government how much money you made), so they can figure out what taxes you need to pay.

  • Giving you advice on how to manage your money and grow your business.
     

• Lawyer: Think of a lawyer as your business's legal superhero. They are there to protect you and make sure everything is done by the book. They can help with things like:

  • Writing legal documents, like contracts and service terms.

  • Protecting your ideas and brand with trademarks and copyright.

  • Helping you if you have a legal problem or disagreement.

 

Our Role: Your Creative Partner

 

Our job is to handle all the creative and brand-building work so you can focus on the business operations. We are your partner for everything to do with your brand identity.
 

This is how the process works:

First, we get you completely prepared with our Bronze package. This gives you all the essential preparation you need before you go ahead and register your business and get your legal and financial support.
 

Then, when you're ready, you can move to our Silver launch programme, where we will get your website up and running and establish your digital presence. For those who want to take a more comprehensive approach, our Gold package provides the ultimate all-in-one solution, equipping your business with all of our creative and marketing services.
 

While we'll guide you on the first steps, we don't handle the legal, financial, or administrative parts of starting your business. That's why we always recommend you get a great accountant or lawyer to help you with those things.

Ready to start? We're here to help you get your brand right.

 

A Little Business Advice

 

Here are 10 vital nuggets of advice that every new business owner should know.
 

1. Avoid Startup Loans. Unless it's completely essential, try to build your business using the resources you already have. Starting from a solid foundation, rather than on debt, gives you a better chance of succeeding in the long run.
    

2. Start Small, Prove the Idea. Before you go all-in, launch a small version of your business to make sure people actually want what you’re offering. This is the fastest way to learn.
    

3. Know Your Numbers. Always understand your finances. You should know your costs, how much you’re charging, and how much money you’re actually making.
    

4. Focus on the Customer. Your business exists to solve a problem for someone. Listen to your customers, ask for their feedback, and constantly work to make their experience better.
    

5. Embrace Failure. Every mistake is a learning opportunity. Don't be afraid to try new things and fail quickly. Use those lessons to improve and move forward.
    

6. Build a Strong Network. Talk to other business owners and people in your industry. A strong network can provide advice, support, and even new business opportunities.
    

7. Market Consistently. You can have the best idea in the world, but if nobody knows about it, you won't get anywhere. Dedicate time each week to telling people what you do.
    

8. Don't Try to Do Everything. It's hard to be the CEO, marketer, accountant, and salesperson all at once. Learn what you're not good at and find people or tools to help.
    

9. Stay Passionate. When things get difficult—and they will—your passion for your idea is what will keep you going. Never lose sight of why you started.
    

10. Prioritise Yourself. Your business can't run without you. Make time for rest, hobbies, and your personal life. Being a healthy, happy business owner is key to a healthy, happy business.

 

Useful Links

 

• GOV.UK: https://www.gov.uk/

• HMRC: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-revenue-customs

• Companies House: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/companies-house