Let’s face it, starting a business is a daunting idea. Where do I start? What is the first step? How much does it cost to start? How about we answer these right now!
Business Name
Any of the business owners we have worked with typically have dozens of names chosen before they land on one that resonates their business model. We recommend writing down all of the business names you like and then start whittling down your list over a few days or weeks. The Rock Digital had dozens of idea names before landing on this one. We wanted a Biblically solid business. One that operates on Biblical Principles. Since that was most important, it required something that resonated those principles in the name.
So how did that come to fruition? Many discussions with people, but mainly from the Bible. The founder was studying Matthew and the passage in Chapter 7 Verses 24 and 25.
24 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
That was it! Founded on The Rock! We strive to be the solid foundation any business needs to be successful in this digital age. Sometimes we can’t help, but we always try to find someone who has that ability. Some business relationships are not fiscally mutually beneficial. That doesn’t stop us from doing what is morally beneficial. My challenge to you is to really think about your business name. Once you have that chosen, search the Secretary of State to find out if your business name is available.
TN Secretary of State
Search the state directory to find out if your business name is available.
File documents to form or register a new business with the Tennessee Secretary of State.
The Secretary of State has all the information necessary to start your business. Typical cost to start a business in Tennessee starts as low as $300!
Business Logo
A business logo should also reflect the values of the business. With The Rock Digital, we selected a heptagon, because it looks like a digital version of a rock. Secondly, and more importantly, the number 7 in Biblical terms represents completeness. We offer a complete digital approach to our customers in the digital space and had to include that into our logo. You also have the option of hiring someone to create a logo for you. In that case, check out Fiverr. You can freelance a logo for as little as $10!
A great starting point would be to Google ideas that you like. Once you have an idea of what you like, get a free Canva account and create your logo. You have a few options to download your image, so here is a quick overview:
PDF: Great for printing. Banners, documents, submitting for t-shirts, etc.
JPG: Great for documents and printing.
PNG: Best for online. This file is relatively small compared to other file types. It loads fast online – website, email, etc.
Wrapping it up in a nice package
Now that you have your Business Name and Logo chosen. It’s time to start considering the products or services you would like to offer. Always keep in mind that crawling before walking analogy from small children. Maybe you want to start a nursery for plants. It may start in a flower box in your backyard instead of starting with ten climate controlled greenhouses. Your business will grow as you grow!