Saree is an elegant Indian style dress. They are very popular and sought after throughout the world right now. This is a very lucrative business. So, how do you start a saree business from home?
You’ve decided you want to start a saree business from your home. Now you are wondering how to start. What are the first steps? Don’t worry; we will help you on this fulfilling journey.
How to Start a Saree Business at Home
Starting a saree business at home is an excellent choice. Saree are some of the oldest styles of women’s clothing available. They are simple, elegant, and sought after throughout the world. Starting your own business will take a few steps.
High Speed Internet, A Cell Phone and A Computer
Before you start any business today, you will need a reliable high speed internet connection. A good cell phone or smartphone that you can access the internet and take photos with is also a must have. It is also recommended that you have a laptop or a desktop computer, as there are things even your smartphone is not capable of.
You will Need a Business Bank Account
A business bank account is a necessity as this is how you will be able to receive payments instantly. You will also need a bank account in order to
- Get your saree inventory
- Pay any fees for licensing
- Start your online store
If you are India, you would need current bank account and GST certificate but it is not needed till your turnover is above 10-20 lakhs depending on state.
A Logo and Name For Your Saree Business
Your saree business will need a name and logo! You will need this before you start anything else. Every form you need to fill out will ask for your business name. It is also how customers will find you. Your name should reflect your product in some way. Brainstorm name ideas, just as you would when naming a child.
How Much will it Cost to Start Your Saree Business?
It doesn’t matter where you live. There will be expenses in starting your homebased business. It is strongly recommended you investigate these costs, so you are not surprised when they arise.
As you research, be sure to write down expected costs. While you are writing the expenses down, round the price upward, as there will be taxes and other expenses. The idea is to get as close to the actual startup cost as possible.
- Do you need a business license? How much does it cost?
- Who will you buy your inventory supply from? This includes packaging for shipping your products to your customers.
- Will you create your website, or go with a site that is already set up?
- How much will advertising cost?
- Should you look into business insurance?
Obtain a Business License if Needed
As with any business there are usually procedures you need to follow. These often include obtaining a business license or equivalent. However, this is not always necessary. You will be able to find out by searching online. Web based businesses usually do not require licensing. To check what the laws are where you live:
Do an online search of obtaining a business license. To do this type in your
- City/ Village
- County/District
- State/ Country
- Business licensing fees and laws
Most county websites will have the information you need and the forms to fill out. Be sure to note how much the fees are. According to The Balance, these fees are generally affordable and cost $50 or more.
If you live in an area that collects sales tax, you will also want to get a sales tax permit since you will be in retail sales. The good thing is obtaining a sales tax permit is not very expensive. Avalara lists the cost of obtaining a sales tax permit by state. The rates are 0 to 50 dollars.
Resale Certificate May be Necessary
You may also wish to look into a resale certificate. A resale certificate will allow you to purchase the products you will be selling tax free. This would help you keep your investment costs lower.
While researching what fees your local government requires, you should also learn what taxes you will be expected to pay. Read through the guidelines on starting a home based business thoroughly.
Try asking any questions you may have that are not answered. Many government websites have chatbots that you can use. If they do not, look at the bottom of the web page for a phone number or other contact information.
Determine the Cost of Your Inventory
Do some online searches to help you find your saree manufacturer. There are many. If you are lucky enough to live in India, you may be able to find a weaver who lives nearby that can weave the saree for you.
Your other option is to find a manufacturer who sells online. It is strongly suggested that you begin with high quality, but inexpensive sarees instead of designer sarees. This helps you keep your costs low while you build your customer base.
Use dropshipping suppliers in India
There are very good dropshippers in India such as Baapstore. They deliver the sarees in a very well packaged fashion and follow a top notch process. You just need to get orders in your portal and submit the order in Baapstore’s portal and they would take care of the rest. They have both cash on delivery and online payment options based on the method you used on your own portal.
Finding your Saree Supply
There are many saree manufacturers available, as well as many types of saree. It is recommended that you choose a couple of styles to begin with. Even if you wish to sell all kinds of saree, limit your choices. Here are some ideas for you.
- Everyday wear
- Executive women such as this Maroon Linen Saree
- Girls saree like the Children’s Half Saree
- Teenage girls may enjoy something like this Light-green Saree
- Special Occasion Saree such as this Black Striped Sabyasachi
Making a couple of choices helps you limit what you need on hand while not being overwhelmed with sales. Do remember to choose quality. If a saree is poorly made, this will reflect on you, and you will lose customers rather than gain them.
Select Accessories to Match Your Saree
You may also want to add accessories to your saree inventory. If your customers can see and buy a full outfit. This may inspire them even more to buy your saree. These accessories may be
- Beautiful matching blouses, such as this Red Banarsi Blouse or these “Top 51 Latest Saree Blouse Designs”
- Matching jewelry that flatters the neckline and dress, such as Aqua necklace and earrings.
- Shoes are also an important part of any outfit. These Rose Wedding Shoes are a lovely choice.
Create an Online Store or Website for Your Saree Business
You have a couple of choices in how to create your online store. You can hire someone to build a website for you, or you can use an online store building app. Search for one that is reputable but reasonable in price. Your web builder will walk you through the steps. You will need to
- Search for the ecommerce website builder that is right for you.
- Pick a plan that fits your budget. There is a wide range of budgets. You will be able to find something in your range.
- Choose a domain name
- Choose and customize your template
- Add photos of your inventory
- Pick currency and payment methods
- Set your shipping options
- Test your site and open your store
Use Social Media and Word of Mouth
Advertise your saree business anywhere and everywhere you can. Some social media platforms have a business section where you will be able to set up a special page and direct potential customers to your online store. This isn’t always simple. Social media sites will often ask for money to advertise your products.
However, you can often share your products and any promotions on your social media pages. Ask your friends and family to share your posts so that more people will see what you have to offer.
When you are outside of your home and interacting with the public, find ways to talk about your saree business. You could also make and carry business cards with you to give to potential customers or leave some in public areas for people to pick up. Advertising is the best way to draw a customer base to you.
Using Amazon.in and Meesho Apps in India
There are several ways to do the business in case you don’t want to have your own portal. You can get Amazon.in seller account very easily, apply for brand, and then start getting orders. For Amazon.in seller account, GST certificate and company name are compulsary irrespective of turnovers. Several apps such as Meesho are also providing house wife opportunities for doing business from home. Check out the Meesho app and it’s full details here.
How Much Money Can You Expect to Make?
This greatly depends on the quality of the materials your sarees are made from, as well as how much you have invested in your saree business. For these reasons, it is again important to stress that you search for a manufacturer that will provide high quality products that will not cost you designer prices in the beginning.
You will need to keep an eye on current trends and patterns to ensure your customers see the fashions they want. Be sure to pay attention to times of celebration and upcoming festivals. You must try to stay ahead of others in the saree business by offering the newest styles before your competition catches on.
Saree are very popular. Their simplicity and elegance carry an air of femininity that makes any woman feel beautiful. According to Entrepreneur most retail items can be marked up 50 percent from the wholesale price.