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Success tastes sweet

This guest post was written by an anonymous young woman who turned her mom’s talent into a profitable family enterprise.

In my student years, I got a scholarship and additional income at part-time jobs. But this money was not enough to satisfy my financial ambitions. There were many things I wished to buy, many countries I dreamed to visit. In addition, I always wanted to launch my own business and do something useful, help people around me feel happy.

As a future marketing specialist, I knew enough about brands promotion. It was only necessary to find a win-win idea for my first startup. Inspiration came very unexpectedly when I was eating a delicious cake cooked by my mother. I have always been delighted with her cuisine, just as other family members and guests visiting us did. My mom is a fairy, but she uses a spoon instead of a magic wand.

I thought: “Why don’t I turn her hobby into a profitable business that will bring income to our family?” When I asked her opinion, she was shy and answered: “Why would people want to buy my cooking when there are so many restaurants and branded food?” But I was sure that there was something special in her culinary art and I would find ways to make this project successful, to dispel her doubts and to start planning our venture.

It took some time to research the café business. I understood that money I had was not enough for basic investment, so it was necessary to take a loan in a bank. In addition, I had to spend much time on this startup, so my academic performance was threatened, most of academic assignments were written by specialists from Pro-Papers, and I had to rewrite several exams to pass to the next course. Although it was clear that running a successful enterprise is not easy, I decided to try and started from analyzing the experience of successful café owners. It was important to make only correct decisions to avoid the bankruptcy risk.  

During some time, I just visited cafes in my city to understand which trends are popular, what kind of space people need to communicate and relax. Also, I had to come up with some unique features to make my project stand out on a competitors’ background, choose a target audience and satisfy its needs.  

My mom suggested to make a cozy design in our café, fill it with beautiful pictures, flowers, pleasant aromas. Since she is a professional designer, I asked her to plan the interior. After getting the money in the bank, I rented premises which she decorated and furnished. My dad and brother helped us to buy all interior items, install lightning and cooking equipment.  

The next step was finding reliable suppliers with good prices. I understood that it was necessary to offer quality and cheap products to attract potential clients’ attention, I agreed with several affordable brands on wholesale cooperation. Some additional supplies and tableware were bought at the final stage.

When everything was ready, we have invited the first clients to our café. As it was located on the outskirts where there are not many restaurants and entertainment centers, the absence of similar enterprises on our and adjacent streets helped to avoid tough competition. My mother cooked her best cake and muffins. Since the café was small (five tables with four soft chairs in each), I was the only waitress, and I had enough time to take orders, make coffee or tea and bring food to clients.

My brother’s hobby is playing guitar. He was studying at music school and always knew how to create a great atmosphere at our family dinners. I was pleased by his proposal to play for the guests. As his office day ended at 6:00 pm, he was in the café at 7:00 pm. This was the time when most people came, too. They were going home from work, decided to spend some time with friends, drink a cup of coffee, eat a delicious pastry, listen to pleasant music and enjoy sweet aromas.

The evening schedule was convenient for me as I was studying at the university. Lectures ended at about 3:00 pm, so I opened the café at 4:00. All the food was ready as my mom had a flexible schedule and usually was free in the morning.

During the first month, our incomes were rather modest. I worried whether I could pay off my loan. But over time, many clients turned into regulars, recommended our café to their friends and relatives who also wished to try my mom’s tasty cuisine and listen to my brother’s music.

In addition, I applied the marketing knowledge gained at the university. As my advertisement budget was rather low, I mainly took advantage of online marketing: sent invitations to my friends, posted adds in social networks, made videos where my mom explained how she cooks her cakes, held online polls and promotions.

Thanks to significant efforts and love for my work, I managed to pay off the loan and earn good money. A year after the opening of the café, I graduated from the university and had to choose between two options: to become an employee in a company or to develop my own enterprise. As a person who loves freedom and understands that a startup can be profitable, I decided to go my way and devoted all my time and energy to the café. My mom also left her former position and started to work full-time with me.

Experience has demonstrated that we made the correct choice. Over some time, five tables in the small café on the outskirts were not enough to satisfy our bold entrepreneurial desires. We moved to the city center and opened a restaurant, hired waiters, a chef who cooks pizza, meat, salads, soups and other dishes besides desserts.

Mom’s cake which inspired me to launch a startup is still one of the key items in our menu. I hope that this article will encourage you to embody your dreams.

We All Want Younger, Healthier Looking Skin and Here’s How You Can Get It

My personal story.

I love the outdoors and being in the sunshine, and this proved problematic for the health of my skin. When I was younger, I didn’t even think about the damage I was doing to my skin by spending countless hours in the sun with no protection on my skin of any kind. All this lack of prevention had begun to show on my face when I got a little older – nothing terrible at first but the wrinkles and dull, dry, unhealthy-looking skin slowly emerged and kept getting worse.

This was when I decided to take active preventative measures to ensure my skin’s future health and maybe get back some of what I had already lost. I became obsessed with making sure I covered my skin with a moisturizer, clothing and sunblock if I was going to be outside.

I mean, I drove my husband and family a little crazy with my nagging about their need to take care of their skin and my own need to keep my skin nourished and protected. After all, the skin is the largest organ you have, and it seems the most easily forgotten.

Some other daily lifestyle changes I made.

I started to pay attention to all aspects of my skin health, not just sun protection. I began paying attention to my diet and making sure I was drinking plenty of water to hydrate and nourish my skin from within.

I changed my facial cleansers and moisturizers to make certain I wasn’t applying harsh chemicals to this delicate area and creating more of a problem. I even changed the way I did laundry and the products I used there as well because clothing rubs directly on your skin and can leach chemicals.

I began to research a lot about my skin and I went to, and still regularly see, a dermatologist to make certain my skin is as healthy as it can be (and she makes sure that a freckle is just that – a freckle!)

I learned a lot about my skin and now make sure that I use products that will help improve and protect my skin from future damage as well as the issues I already have due, in part, to my age.

Most recently I have decided to start using an anti-aging cream to help lessen the look of the wrinkles, and other skin issues that age has brought forth and that I possibly accelerated with my excessive time spent in the sun. I didn’t want another product that was just going to moisturize my face – no; I needed something stronger and more focused than that but also gentle enough that I could use it every day.

Here is where all of the research I have ever done about skin became incredibly useful. I had read so many different articles, reviews, and research papers about how some elements both natural and synthetic could benefit certain aspects of the appearance of your skin.

I made my choice in anti-aging creams, and it’s Stemuderm.

I made my selection of anti-aging creams after looking at countless products and so many different ingredient combinations that I think I got a little dizzy at one point. I chose Solvaderm’s Stemuderm above the others for several reasons.

  • They make their products in the USA.
  • They offer a product that has multiple ingredients to target more than one age-related skin issue.
  • They offer a 60-day money back guarantee.
  • I could order just one container on my first order and qualify for free shipping.
  • I could read all the product information and reviews online and not have to go to my local store to research a multitude of products.
  • The Solvaderm brand offers multiple other skin related products that can easily combine with Stemuderm and boost your results even further.
  • The Stemuderm ingredients are like no other combination on the market.

All of the above reasons, and probably a couple of others that I have forgotten to include, influenced my first purchase of Stemuderm, but the results I noticed are what keep me as a returning customer.

How do you use Stemuderm?

It’s easy – you apply a small amount to the affected areas of your facial skin and spend a moment to rub it in thoroughly. You do this twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed – that’s it.

See the video to understand Stemuderm Work

Where can you purchase Stemuderm?

You can purchase Stemuderm directly from the manufacturer website for $79.99 per container. You will receive free shipping on orders that exceed $60.00.

My skin feels better on many levels from using Stemuderm.

It’s not only that I have noticed a reduction in the wrinkles on my face – no, that’s not the only reason I continue to use Stemuderm. I have noticed so many improvements that it may take a minute to fill you in on all of them, but I’ll do my best to keep it short.

I think the first thing I noticed after I started using Stemuderm is that I liked how the moisturizers in it made my problem areas feel instantly softer and smoother. I then noticed after a few weeks that the wrinkles around my eyes and my mouth seemed to be less visible. Not gone entirely, but definitely faded and softer looking.

I also liked that this product didn’t feel like I had put glue on my face to smooth out wrinkles. There was none of that tight, dry feeling that eventually cracks and looks terrible. This was subtle at first, but the longer I used Stemuderm, the softer and smoother these problem areas became and the more noticeable my results were to the public.

If I push on my cheeks, the skin now bounces back like it did when I was in my twenties – well maybe not quite, but there is notable improvement in the elasticity and plumpness of my cheek area.

I wish I had found Stemuderm earlier in life – I may not need so much rejuvenation now. I like that the ingredients used in making Stemuderm are the best of both nature and science combined.

For a product that goes on in minutes twice a day to be able to provide the results I see, it must be a powerful formula. I recommend that you give Stemuderm a try for yourself, and I don’t think you will be disappointed with the results you will see when you look in the mirror.

About Author

Courtney is a working mom and step-mom who believes in always looking on the bright side of life. Wanting what’s best for her and for her family, she always opts for natural and organic products and is happy to share her knowledge with the readers of her popular blog. In her spare time Courtney enjoys crafting, cooking and spending time with her family out in nature.

How to Improve the House to Make It Child-Friendly

Children are the bundles of joy; their energy is unmatchable. Their requirements differ from the elder ones in the family. The fact that they are inquisitive, quite dependent and not fully aware of the dangers around requires the home owners to make a number of changes in the living space. Right from the days spent in kids bassinet to the taking the first steps and beyond, the children need special arrangements at each step. So, here are some of the ways to consider for improving house as per kids’ requirements.

1.Secure the boundaries 

The kids have the areas defined as safe zones. Staircases, balconies, patios and beyond mudroom are some of the areas considered unsafe for kids. Here, they need supervision of adults. Else, it can cause unwanted injuries. Still, to make the child comfortable in such areas, use of railing from inline design is recommended. The railings can be of glass or steel cables. And, these can be bought in combination of different post styles, top rails, vertical supports etc. Depending upon how active the child is, the boundaries are secured with railings and gates.

2. Make house allergy-proof 

Your kid is unique and so is its sensitivity towards different things. A health check-up can tell what your kid is allergic to. So, keeping the things completely clean and dust-free is one of the basic changes you need to make when kids are in the house. Secondly, the ventilation quality is to be improved. The house should not be too humid as humidity is breeding ground for several allergens. Thus, keeping child’s room well-lit and airy is another change to make.

3. Develop play areas in the houseThe onus of making child organized lies on parents’ shoulders. Children can tend to become notorious if they do not have proper place to play. Their added inquisitiveness can take them near to electricity sockets, to stairs, and wall paintings. It can be avoided if you have developed a tent house or ball room or activity area in the house. Have small make-shift swimming pool where kids can enjoy with other members of family. This is how house needs to be changed to keep a child happy and engaged.

4. Cover the floors with carpets and mats 

Giving children lot of space in house is necessary for their activities. They crawl, they jump and they also try to attract everybody’s attention by doing things in a charming way. Thus, keeping their space blocked with large sized beds is not a good idea. Instead, try to have make-shift beds which are used only during the night. And for the rest of the day, make space more activity friendly by covering the floor with mattress, carpets or mats as applicable.

In addition to above, have more of games where actual playing is involved. Kids need to be kept engaged and they can enjoy their day better if they get something to do. Thus, encourage lots of activities but while keeping the safety factor in mind.

7 Ways Gemini Struggle in Their Love Life

Every zodiac sign has unique challenges when it comes to the way it experiences love and relationships. Aries and Virgos tend to be too guarded, whereas Sagittarii love their freedom and independence way too much. But, what are some of the reasons that make it hard for Gemini to thrive in a relationship? Explore the 7 most common ones below, and check out if you find any of them present in your partner.

#1 They get bored easily

They are natural experimentators. Charming and great at seduction, the Gemini zodiac sign likes the chase sometimes more than what follows after, and for this reason, they may lose interest pretty quickly after achieving their goal. They love diversity, and you always need to keep the relationship dynamic if you want to sustain their interest. The Gemini men are adventure-seekers, so boredom and routine will just steer them away from you.

#2 They love being flirty and promiscuous

They love bringing an upbeat atmosphere to any group, and because they are charming and witty, they often get a lot of attention from the opposite sex. Since they get along with others very well and have natural interpersonal skills, they end up shortening the distance with other people quite quickly. If you are in a serious relationship with a Gemini and you often get jealous because of their flirtatious or frivolous attitude, keep in mind it is probably their communication style rather than a sign for infidelity. 

#3 They can be overly idealistic

Gemini is an air sign. They share a common trait with the other two – Aquarius and Libra. Their mantra is “I think,” and they often do think about things through rose-colored glasses. Gemini people may get really stubborn in their perception of the world in an ideal way and refuse to see things as they are. While that might help them in their career or artistic endeavors, in their personal life, it could create friction. Especially, if their significant other is a feet-on-the-ground Capricorn or a practical Taurus.

#4 They change their minds quickly

This is linked to the fact they can’t retain their interest in one thing for too long, or their desire to keep exploring. Sometimes, it happens in a heartbeat, and before you know it, they are on to some other activity. The Gemini person is full of enthusiasm for discovering new horizons and ideas, but sometimes, he/she ends up shifting their focus from one thing to another in a matter of seconds, leaving his/her partner unprepared and in utter surprise. Mostly because a shift of focus is a shift, this means a change in priorities, and unless you are as flexible as Gemini people are, it’s not easy to adapt quickly enough to their style.

#5 They seem too shallow 

When you constantly want to keep busy and active, you might seem like a person who doesn’t go into too much depth – because who has time for that, really? That’s sometimes the case with the Gemini zodiac sign. It’s not their fault, and we all know that appearances are often quite deceiving. Yet, when cultivating a meaningful relationship, you need some time to get to know the inner world of the other person, and their agility is often misread as the lack of interest or superficiality.

#6 Indecisiveness is a big issue

Especially when overwhelmed with too much choice, the Gemini tends to be overly indecisive, which can get out of hand. From the smallest things like which restaurant to eat at tonight to whether they should move to a new city, they could feel unable to choose. If you are someone who takes bold and immediate decisions, this unattractive side of your Gemini partner might create tension between you.

#7 They are very nosy sometimes 

Gemini love being the center of attention. Which means that if a side activity or another person takes the spotlight off them, they will want to know everything about it and why it is more important for you. Even though most of Gemini signs are easy-going and laid-back, some of them are nosy and might disregard your need for personal space.

Are any of these the reason for your last fight with your Gemini lover?  Living under the same roof with someone from this zodiac sign is bliss because of their positive and outgoing character, so don’t let the list above stop you from loving your Gemini!

Yoga At Home for All Ages with Glo

Yoga for Beginners is Now Made Simple with Glo

If you’ve been looking for a yoga for beginners’ class that moves at your speed, try out Glo. For a fraction of the cost of a gym membership, you’ll get nonstop access to over 3,000 lessons. You’ll also have access to meditation, Pilates, and more. Yoga is great for conditioning, flexibility, strengthening, and mental clarity. With its unique video learning platform, you can move as quickly or as slowly as you’d like. You’ll also be able to connect with a supportive community that’ll cheer you on and will help you get through any challenges along the way. Glo is perfect for people who travel as all you need is an internet connection. Specially designed courses for travelers, expectant mothers, men, women, and more have also been added. No matter who you are or where you are, Glo is the perfect solution to learn yoga for beginners.

Your Learning Experience with Glo

Most people that are looking to try yoga at home seem to be curious as to how they’ll get started. Glo provides you with a short online questionnaire regarding your objectives, preferred learning style, and personal preferences. From there, you’ll be matched with the perfect courses and instructors. You’re able to dig a little deeper into the instructor’s background with extensive video interviews that address anything you could possibly want to know. Taking the time to find the perfect instructor can help you feel comfortable and confident in your learning experience. You’re able to add or drop courses and instructors as often as you’d like. Glo offers many different types of yoga such as:

  • Vinyasa
  • Gotha
  • Restorative
  • Yoga for expecting mothers
  • Yoga for men and more

Other Offerings by Glo

Glo offers meditation to complement its yoga for beginners’ courses. Meditation is an ancient practice that’s been used by people from all walks of life. Being able to find your inner light and peace is what meditation aims to accomplish. Additional and specialty meditation courses are also available to Glo members at no additional cost. You’ll find many of your favorite yoga instructors also hosting meditation courses. No matter what stage of life you’re in, meditation can provide you with exceptional benefits to make life a little easier.

Pilates is a newer style of exercise that aims to build muscle, tone, and improve mental clarity. Many of the courses use your own body weight, so very little if any equipment is needed for many of the courses. Athletes, actors, dancers, and more have all praised the exceptional health benefits Pilates provides. You’ll have unlimited access to all the courses with your Glo subscription.

Glo’s Manifesto, Mission, and Vision

Glo seeks to improve the lives of its students through the many benefits of exercise. The company believes that life is a journey of constant development and improvement. The holistic approach to exercise is great for students as the website evolves as well. Creating a happier, healthier, and more productive self is something that students seem to love about Glo.

Try Glo on For Size for Free!

Glo is so confident that you’ll love their yoga for beginners’ courses, they’re willing to let you try it for 15-days for free. You’ll be able to connect with instructors, students, and take courses just as a subscriber would. If you’d like to continue beyond the trial period, the monthly membership is automatically billed for your convenience. It’s a great no-risk or obligation way to find out how Glo would fit into your life. Join the thousands who’ve been loving Glo for years, sign up for your free trial, today!

The Best Tire Workouts to Sculpt a Lean Body

Nowadays, all you see on social media are guys and gals pushing or rather flipping a tire all across a gym or backyard.  Well, if not all at least most fitness enthusiasts are going for tire workouts.

As it turns out, tire workouts can help build strength and endurance and burns some major calories. Also, it offers a nice change from your regular barbells and dumbbells, so you should suddenly check out various tire workouts for strength.

 Integrating a tire workout into your workout regime will shock your body and coerce muscles to work in a different way. Also, it looks pretty empowering to lift a tire and workout with it.

The best way to start is by starting with a lighter tire and gradually improve the intensity of the workouts as per your activity level and strength. Try the best tire workouts to get a lean and mean body.

Best Tire Workouts for Gaining Strength

1) Pop Squats.

If you want to start with a tire workout then you must start with pop squats.

Just stand in the center of the tire into a low squat and jump up onto the tire while you have both your feet to land standing. This helps your legs and glutes for boosting strength and definition. Apart from boosting your strength with a burst of cardio to burn away calories and get your heart rate up.

2) Decline Push-Up and Knee Drive

Boost your pushups and knee drives with a tire. All you do is put your feet on the tire and hands on the ground as you plank/pushup position. Lower yourself into a push-up and press up, then push one knee to your chest and then do it with another leg. This movement is not only great for your chest and shoulders but is great for your core and stability too.

3) Single Leg Box Jumps

This is another extremely effective tire training exercise. Start standing on one foot and move up onto the tire, while you land on a single leg. Jump down or step down according to your level and the flexibility of your joints. This combines both strength and cardio benefits. Switch legs one after another. The single leg jumps works your legs and helps maintain balance.

4) Tire Flips

This is one badass move and taps onto your latent strength. Squat down as you lift the tire from the bottom, and flip it over. The easier it seems the more challenging it is and you have to prepare yourself to use the full strength. Here, you can work out both your upper body and lower strength. You can add a broad jump too. As you do tire flips add a broad jump by flipping the tire, broad jump to the other side, and then flip the tire again.

5)  Sledgehammer

Channelize your inner warrior and get your sledgehammer game on point. In this workout, you keep pounding that tire to get the most out of it. You can try the weighted sledgehammer and you can try various compound moves with a lunge back, squat, and hit the tire. Go for 10-15 reps on each side.

6) Lateral High Step-Through 

This is one of the most intensive tire workouts. Here you need to keep your left foot planted on the outside, then as you draw your right knee toward your chest and step your foot right into the middle of the tire. Keep alternating jumping from left to right almost like speed skating as you simultaneously bring your opposite hand to the knee. Move as fast as possible.

 Note: You’ll stay covering the left half of the tire and you won’t end up standing on the right side of the tire, then keep hopping back and forth. Just remember, it isn’t about what side you jump on so long as you’re high stepping over the tire. Do 4*30 seconds on and 15 seconds off.

7) Triceps Dips

In this exercise, the bench gives away to a tire. It is a slow and controlled movement working on your triceps. You can make this harder still by adding a plate to your lap or you can use it as an active rest while you use one as a rest period in between the other tire=training workouts.

Place your arms behind you as you place your arms behind you. Keep your palms of your hands on the tire while your arms are fully extended. Place your feet roughly half of your body length right in front of the tire. This is where you start. Bend at the elbows at a 90-degree angle as you lower your body slowly until your bottom just brushes the ground. Return to the straight-arm position. This covers the first repetition.

8) Step-Ups

This exercise works your legs and hips along with your quads and glutes. What you need to do is jump from the tire in a super fast manner. This will make you more agile and you can put this explosiveness into other sports activities.

Face the tire and then place your left foot on it. Use this foundation to push off the step. Push through your heel to jump up vertically. While you explode in the air your legs will naturally meet again side by side;  then switch your opposite leg to rest on the tire as soon as you come down. Land on the ball of your feet softly so that you can rev your body to jump high and explode again.

The harsh summer sun might be winding down at you, but don’t just stay cooped up in your cabin and sip iced green tea! Come on, set it out in fresh air and feel like a beast as you tackle a mammoth tire. You might wonder how you can get there. And despite how complex it may sound, it isn’t rocket science. Everything relies on a clear purpose. Combine these tires with the best barbell for home gym and you’ll get even better results. You also have spaces for tire workouts at gym nowadays. But if you rather workout at your home, your backyard is good to go! Use this versatile piece of equipment to experiment with a variety of exercises.  This is a great one for gaining power, strength, and conditioning. One, equipment, many uses, so what’s stopping you?

How Does Car Shipping Work?

Are you relocating to a new place or work? Moving to a different state or cross country? No matter where you move you will have to take your transportation with you.

Now, if it is a small distance, you can drive your car yourself, but if it is quite a bigger distance, you may want to get your car shipment to your new location.

Unless, you have thorough knowledge of car dealerships, you might not know how a car shipping actually works.

To make it easy for you, here we have set out the process if how a car shipping actually takes place.

To find out the cost of moving a car to another state, you can check our instant car shipping quotes to get an estimate.

Let us check it out.

Shipping modes

You can ship your vehicle in an open trailer as well as enclosed trailers. Both modes of transportation is available for you 

Open trailers are much cheaper than enclosed ones, but they also make your vehicle prone to damage and theft. How much does it cost to ship a vehicle to another country?

In case of open trailers, the cars are basically chained to the trailer to keep it secure. But this can also be detrimental to your vehicle as the chain is tied to the axle of the car imparting a lot of strain to the vehicle.

Also if the chains somehow loosen there is a chance for your car to bang on the walls of the trailer.

Enclosed trailers on the other hand, use wheel nets or nylon straps to prevent any kind of damage to your junk car.

They also have lift gates for cars with lower clearance to protect the cars from getting damaged.

Preparing your car for shipping

Once you have decided on your auto shipment company, it is now time to prepare your car for shipment.

Make sure that there is enough gas in the tank and enough battery power so that you won’t be charged any extra fee for getting your car delivered.

Also take note of the antifreeze level, so that your car can endure the weather or climatic conditions it will pass through, without cracked engine block or any other type of problem.

Transporting the vehicle to the transporter

Now whether you want to drive the vehicle to the transporter or have it picked up for you, has to be discussed with the auto transporter.

The common practice is to arrange a convenient meeting place where you will drive the car and hand it over to the transporter.

Also, if your vehicle is not in running condition you can arrange pickup from your location, but be sure to inform the transporter before you book their services.

Also it is always good to explain any oddities in your car to the transporter, so that they can be cautious while transporting your vehicle.

Reputable companies do not ask for deposits

Whenever a transportation company asks for deposits to transport your vehicle, consider it as a red flag.

Exclusive companies ask for payments when they pick up the car or drop it off, they do not ask for deposit of any kind.

Not having to deposit in a company ensures that you can pull in case you don’t like their services or they don’t make it up to the mark as per your requirements.

Car inspection

Once your vehicle is scheduled for shipping, the trailer driver will inspect your car thoroughly, making notes of all the pre-existing damage or scratches.

Also after transportation your car will be checked for any new damage. If there is a new damage, you can submit your claim to the auto transport company and they will take that into introspection.

Final Words

A car shipping company can ease your load of shipping your vehicle to your new location. Now, that you know how a car shipping company actually works, you can choose a company that meets all of your requirements and get your car safely shipped to your new address.

In High Vape Demand: Why You Should Get into the Vaping Business

vaping

The vaping industry is predicted to reach an astounding $43 billion dollars within the next 5 years. The vape demand is growing for young entrepreneurs.

The number of vapers rose from 7 million in 2011 to 23 million in 2016.  The vape demand is growing for young entrepreneurs. This is the reason why you need to start the vape business immediately!

As millions of people move from regular cigarettes to e-cigarettes, the market grows, making it a viable business idea. Are you wondering how to start a vape shop and if you should do it? See below a few insights.

Starting a Vape Shop is Quite Affordable

There are two ways to go about joining vape shop entrepreneurs; franchise or startup. Joining a franchise might require as much as $100k to open shop while starting your shop from scratch can take as little as $25,000. 

Going the franchise way is always a good idea considering the parent company has already established its brand; therefore, you need not do much to build a reputation. Unfortunately, as a franchise, you will have to follow specific regulations and trends that the parent company sets.

Starting your shop from scratch is quite affordable; however, you will need to build your shop’s brand from bottom-up. It will take a lot of effort, but it’s not such a bad idea since you will mold it your way. As long as you are positive about your venture, it will work out as planned.

Legal Requirements are Not as Complicated

Yes, sometimes legal requirements minimize our freedom to go all out, but since they are public, it becomes quite easy to access them and even easier to adhere to them.

Some legal requirements for vape shops include;

  • Getting licenses and permits
  • Registering for taxes
  • Opening a bank account
  • Having an accounting system or an accountant to achieve this
  • Acquiring business insurance

Depending on your state, vape shop rules may vary, it would be wise to consult your lawyer on legal issues that may come up from starting one so that you can avoid them.

It’s Just like Any Other Startup

Just like any business startup, vape shops require the necessary foundation. Before you purchase anything, start by getting a favorable location. As mentioned, be keen on state laws that might forbid vape shop locations.

Some commonly banned vape shop locations include;

  • Near schools
  • Near churches
  • Next to parks

Aside from restricted areas, go for a location that is in a busy street. Where you position your shop could help or hurt your vaping business. While this is not 100% accurate, it’s not worth the risk. 

However, if you miss an excellent busy location, you can get a functional space and put more energy, and maybe money, into marketing your shop. After getting the right place, purchase inventory; electronic e-cigarettes, accessories, parts, several e-liquid bottles, and flavors. 

Other things you will have to purchase;

  • POS system
  • An iPad or iPhone
  • Liability insurance, among others

Then comes employment. A tip for hiring staff for your shop: get people who enjoy the industry. These are the people who will move your sales with just their passion for vaping.

However, don’t assume these new employees know-it-all. Make an effort to show them how you’d like things done and tell them how you would like them to handle the shop and its customers so that they can all follow similar regulations.

Vape Demand is high

According to Earnest Young’s report on e-cigarettes, most people vape because it’s less harmful to the body as compared to other smoking methods. Many smokers start vaping to curb their daily smoking habits. As much as there isn’t any proof that vaping helps smokers stop smoking regular cigarettes, it sure is a good alternative for them. 

It’s Quite Easy to Diversify

There are many options for starting a vape shop. This means that you cannot limit yourself. However, the more ideas you incorporate, the more money you will need to be efficient to your clients.

You can opt to give space to people who would like to vape in your shop and retail e-cigarettes. When retailing e-cigarettes, it is essential to have a variety. E-cigarettes come in different sizes and shapes, brands and flavors. 

Once you stock all the various types – which will cost you – then you have high chances of scaling. Singulating type, size, or flavor means you’ll send away clients with different preferences. One of the best vape sticks is the SMOK Stick V8 which you can include in your inventory.

If you have a good hand when it comes to mixing flavors, you can also choose to flavor e-liquids and sell as your handmade brand. This will also bring in more money to your shop since your flavors are homemade.

I wouldn’t distribute my flavors to other vape shops in my area; however, you can also opt for that and become a full blown flavor brand in town! If you choose to keep it indoors, then more customers will come to you for that one unique factor that others don’t have!

The Key to Selling is Customer Service

To build your vape shop’s reputation, start within your shop. How do you handle customers? Think about three things;

  • Etiquette
  • Speed
  • Efficiency/accuracy

No matter how good your products are, it won’t matter if your customer service sucks. People like being treated as if they are valued. By this, we don’t just mean smiling while packing their e-cigarettes!

You have to engage in conversations, get to know what they like, have them try something new, tell a story, laugh to their jokes, and be more open-minded. Customers always come back to the funny guy at the vape shop. Also, when you make connections with customers, they feel at home, and everyone comes back home!

Creating relationships in the e-cigarette business extends beyond customers to even distributors. Vendors like working with friendly people. They may also put in a good word for you in the streets and bring in customers or be customers as well!

You can Use Social Media Too!

Yes, vaping is a business like any other and you can maximize on social media to create business awareness. This is a move you should make for your shop as early as you launch your business.

Social media is currently the easiest way to get people to be obsessed with what you are selling. As you walk into social media, keep it professional but fun. Showcase your variety of e-cigarettes, make videos, and post photos with your clients (with their consent).

You can also ask your clients to post photos of their experience at your shop on their social media pages and tag you. This is better than word-of-mouth. Everyone wants to be where everyone else is going and having fun; let your shop be that place.

As you go online with your vaping products, kindly remember FDA regulations that apply to your line of work. Place warning and disclaimers around your page info to stay legally safe.

You can also have a Website and E-commerce

The greatest competitors of vape brick and mortar shops are online retailers. Online retailers get to sell their vaping products at cheaper costs making it hard for shops to make sales.

Don’t worry; you can get a slice of the pie too by designing your website with an e-commerce platform. Diversity always does well in business! Going online means your loyal clients can still purchase from their favorite shop even when they travel outside the state.

Having a website makes you more efficient to your clientele and gives you another avenue of making sales. With an e-commerce site, you can showcase all your products with their prices and specifications. This will help clients choose the exact product they want.

If you choose to have an e-commerce site for your vaping products, have a walk-in popup that only allows adults to access the site. In case you have some extra cash, create attractive banners, and advertise online.

Another great way to promote your local shop is to register it under review platforms like Google My Business and Yelp.

It’s Easy to Spot Counterfeit Distributors

Each industry has its cons, the most common one being selling of counterfeit products; vaping is not an exception. Now, one thing you need to know about quality products is that they mold an excellent reputation for your shop. They might be a bit costly, but they are legit so you won’t have to worry about someone getting ill using your vaping products.

Spot the cons in the industry and avoid them! In case you opt low-quality products, make sure you let your clients know. Let them be the ones to say, “It’s okay; you can sell me that.” Else, you will close shop in a heartbeat!

If money is the problem, give it time, don’t start until you’ve enough to supply legitimate products. It’s never worth ruining your business’ reputation, and with an online presence, word will travel quite fast.

Take Advantage of Vape Demand and Start a Vape Shop Today!

Growing a vape shop from scratch might take some time, determination, and hard work. Fortunately, it’s not as complicated as growing most small business startups. As a young entrepreneur, you can’t miss out the chance to quench vape demand by starting your shop.

Join this multi-billion dollar business today and make good money! Check out more posts to learn various ways of self-improvement and to build a better life.

11 Little Known Surprising Facts About Vaping

Electronic Cigarette

Vaping is not just about smoking and looking cool. Keep reading for 10 little known surprising facts about vaping.

Vaping has become more popular than ever.Everywhere you look, you’ll see someone with a vape australia pen.This is really no surprise, especially as marijuana laws continue to change.

If you’ve never vaped before, you might have some questions about it. You’ve come to the right place for answers. After all, there’s plenty to learn about the vape culture that might surprise you.

In this article, we take a look at some facts about vaping that you probably didn’t know. Keep reading to learn about the world of vaping for fun.

1. Vaping Is Popular Among Celebrities

As vaping becomes increasingly popular in the current culture, it should come as no big surprise that it’s also popular among celebrities. After all, many famous celebs have been open about their love of smoking and weed for decades.

Everyone from Kim Kardashian to Snoop Dog to Kate Hudson routinely document their cannabis and vaping habits on social media. 

Other celebrities who love to vape include Montel Williams, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Lindsay Lohan, just to name a few. 

When it comes to the rich and famous, the popularity crosses every age and sex boundary, providing them with the chance to get high or simply enjoy a hit of nicotine without the downside of smoking.

2. Vaping Can Help You Stop Smoking

Speaking of smoking, many people are turning to vape in a desire to kick the cigarette habit forever. After all, smoking is indeed an addiction that’s tough to give up. Fortunately, for those people hooked on nicotine, vaping can provide a way out. However, if you’re looking for a way to enjoy vaping without the addictive effects of nicotine, you might ask yourself, “Is there a vape with 0 nicotine?” That’s right, thousands of people have already managed to escape the cigarette addiction bus by vaping instead. Plus, it’s much more pleasant for everyone around you than the smell of those nasty cigarettes.

That’s right, thousands of people have already managed to escape the cigarette-addiction bus by vaping instead. Plus, it’s much more pleasant for everyone around you than the smell of those nasty cigarettes.

Another great advantage of vaping over smoking is that you have a multitude of flavors to choose from. There are literally hundreds of flavors available on the market, so you could try something different every day. 

Imagine never having to pile nasty cigarette butts in a filthy ashtray ever again. This is a new freedom more and more people are getting to experience as they discover the joys of vaping products like the IQC vaporizer

3. Vape Oil Doesn’t Burn

Here’s something cool about vaping you likely didn’t know: vape oil doesn’t burn. 

Surprised? We thought you might be.

The truth is that the oil inside the chamber of your vape pen simply evaporates. This happens when the coil heats up with the click of a button, instantly heating the vape oil and causing it to evaporate and produce the flavor you’ve come to love so much.

This is really a simple process. The battery allows the coil to heat up the oil rather than a flame burning the tobacco of a cigarette, which releases carbon monoxide that will be breathed into the lungs of the smoker. Thus the smoke generated by the vape pen doesn’t pose the same health risks as that of a tobacco cigarette.

4. Vaping Culture Is Very Diverse

As the popularity of vaping increases exponentially year after year, you’ve probably noticed that a distinctive subculture has begun to arise with it.

People are naturally drawn to anything that inspires a sense of community. Vaping certainly does this. After all, many people are originally attracted to vaping out of an intense desire to be liberated from their addiction to smoking. So that creates a shared passion and bond.

There is also the simple excitement of a shared interested, and the ability to come together to explore and share the common bond of this new passion. Vapers love to discuss tips, share their experiences, swap favorite vape oil flavors and talk about their vaping habits.

This sense of community thus gives rise to an entirely new world of art and fashion, as well as the desire to spend time together in local hot spots, travel destinations, and online forums where ideas can be shared among a worldwide network of vape enthusiasts.

5. Not Yet Regulated by the FDA

Believe it or not, the FDA doesn’t yet regulate vaping. This might come as a surprise but it’s true. 

Though the FDA regulates many types of tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigarette tobacco, and smokeless tobacco, it hasn’t yet begun to regulate tobacco-related products used in vaping. This includes nicotine gels and dissolvable tobacco.

Under the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, manufacturers are required to disclose all ingredients in the products and receive full FDA approval before they’re allowed to market them.

In addition to this, the FDA would forbid the sell of vape-related products to be sold to minors. And all labeling would have to include health warners regarding the contents of the products.

6. Vapes Are Reusable

This is one of the top reasons vaping has become popular so quickly. People who smoke often go through hundreds of cigarettes each month. This is both expensive and messy. 

After all, cigarettes create tons of ash and then have to be disposed of. This is such a waste, plus it’s terrible for the environment.

Most vape pens are designed to be refilled so that they be used again and again. Some are made for single use, but most aren’t.

Reusable vapes feature a chamber where you simply load a fresh e-juice cartridge and then continue on your way. 

If you are looking to add to your vape accessory collection, be sure to check out Suorin Air Pods.

7. Cheaper Than Cigarettes

As mentioned above, vaping is significantly less expensive than smoking cigarettes.

In fact, the price of cigarettes has risen to crazy levels in recent years. Many brands now cost $6-$8 per pack. So when you consider the fact that many people smoke at least a pack a day, the price of this habit can be like making a car payment each month. 

Those who have made the switch from cigarettes to vaping have discovered the immense savings of their new nicotine delivery system. After all, the vape is reusable. Thus all one has to do is load a fresh e-juice cartridge rather than invest in a new pack of cigarettes.

Once you’ve experienced the cost savings firsthand, it would be hard to imagine ever going back.

8. There Are Vaping Competitions

Vaping tastes great and provides a satisfying nicotine hit, yet it’s also fun. Many people have turned blowing smoke rings into an art form. Vape pens produce enough smoke to allow you to be incredibly creative.

Thus an entire subculture of vaping smoke ring competitions has been born. You’d be amazed by what people are able to do by sucking in smoke from their vape pens and then controlling the release of the smoke to form intricately-formed patterns.

This is all part of the community that has resulted from people coming together to share their passion for vaping. These people are creative, competitive, and passionate about demonstrating their talents to those around them while having a blast in the process.

9. Vape Was the Word of the Year in 2014

Here’s a factoid that might just blow your mind: In 2014, Oxford Dictionaries declared that it had made “vape” the international word of the year.

This goes to show just how popular vaping has become. The term has now officially entered the mainstream. 

This might not seem like a big deal, but it definitely is a sign that things are changing in the world.

10. Vaping Was Invented in China

The history of vaping actually goes back to 2003. That was the year that a Chinese inventor named Hon Lik began researching ways for the human body to be able to consume nicotine without combustion.

One day it occurred to him to use a piezoelectric ultrasound element to vaporize nicotine solution. This was the big idea he’d been searching for.

Although vape pens no longer operate by the same method Hon Lik discovered, his work formed the foundation for the battery-powered heating elements used in the majority of modern vape pens.

11. Vaping Is Great for Weight Loss

We’ve already mentioned the fact that many smokers have used vaping to help them give up the cigarette habit. Vaping has also proved useful for curbing your appetite, thus helping you lose weight.

After all, smoking has been used for years as an appetite suppressant. Vaping has the same effect, yet without the same unhealthy drawbacks of smoking.

When you stop to think about it, buying a bottle of yummy-flavored e-juice is cheaper than indulging in the most tempting calorie-laden meal on the menu. Thus you enjoy all the flavor with the guilt or adding inches to your waistline.

The Most Surprising Facts About Vaping

Once you’ve read these facts about vaping, it should be easy to understand why using a vape pen has been become popular so quickly. It’s clean. It’s healthier than smoking. And you are able to save money while still enjoying the delivery of nicotine.

Plus, it tastes better and is less offensive to everyone around you. What more could you ask for?

Click here to learn about nicotine-free vaping.

Why VoIP is the Most Functional Way to Communicate in the Business World By Tom Senkus

Author’s Bio: As an international entrepreneur and freelance writer, Tom Senkus shares his knowledge on the latest developments in telecommunications, particularly for emerging startups and new businesses. For more information on his published output and writing services, visit www.tomsenkuswriter.com 

Have you been looking for the most efficient way to expand your business presence worldwide? If so, you may have been relying on outdated models of communication, such as landline telephones. The truth of the matter is that cloud computing has revolutionized the business world for telecom, resulting in emergent tech like VoIP, or “Voice over Internet Protocol.”

VoIP enables callers to reach one another anywhere in the world instantly, where audio data is transmitted instantaneously through the cloud. Simply put, packets of data are aided by VoIP and related software (referred to as a “softphone”) to be sent and received in real-time without latency issues or degradation of sound quality. For those in the business world, this means that you can keep in touch with clients and customers in the same way that you would with domestic callers.

Virtual Phone Numbers

Of course, VoIP is the technology that makes this global communication possible. However, while VoIP is the technology behind modern telecom, one of the greatest advancements from this technology has been Virtual Phone Numbers.

Simply put, virtual phone numbers are identical to “normal” phone numbers in function and look. For function, callers only need to dial the phone number as they would any other domestic phone number and they’ll be put in touch with the recipient; your business. As for the look, virtual phone numbers contain the same amount of digits, country codes, and region/area codes that are tied to specific parts of the world.

However, the power of VoIP is what goes on behind the scenes; this is what makes virtual phone numbers a powerful business tool. Let’s take a deeper look into the benefits made possible by virtual phone numbers to gain a deeper understanding of why VoIP is the most functional way to communicate in the business world.

Benefits of Virtual Phone Numbers

Using business phone numbers aided by VoIP technology make your business more accessible to the world. Consider international calling as a prime example. When international callers try to reach your business located abroad, they may face long-distance fees or have their call blocked by their service provider. Also, international callers may not know how to dial outside of their country – or they may prefer to only do business with organizations that they perceive as “domestic.” With virtual phone numbers, which are available in nearly every country in the world, your business circumvents all of these barriers to gain trust and authenticity in new markets.

There is also more to communicating than simply being put in touch with another party. Because virtual phone numbers are available in a variety of options, your organization can subconsciously communicate aspects that can attract, impress, and retain customers. Here is a look at the most common virtual phone numbers:

  • Toll free numbers: These types of virtual phone numbers communicate professionalism and enable callers to reach your business without incurring a charge. As mentioned previously, international callers may face obstacles with calling your domestic toll free number; however, virtual toll free phone numbers are available as ITFS numbers, which are International Toll Free Service numbers. ITFS numbers enable your business to extend toll free calling across borders without the caller receiving charges
  • Vanity phone numbers: As phone numbers with a visually-appealing series of digits, vanity phone numbers enable you to integrate your line of communication into marketing materials. For instance, placing a memorable vanity phone number on a billboard can substantially increase the number of callers reaching your business because the number is easily recalled and it stands as a symbol of your business being an expert in the industry.
  • Local phone numbers: If you’re looking to target specific markets, local phone numbers enable you to choose a country code and area/region code that local residents are familiar with. This means that the process of localization is greatly aided and helps open up lines of communication with those who would otherwise block/ignore your calls.

Last, because VoIP is an Internet-based technology, there are add-ons that can augment virtual phone numbers to greatly expand their functionality – and thus, your business model. Take, for instance, “time of day routing.” As one of the most popular add-ons, time of day routing changes the destination of where inbound phone calls are redirected. This means that if a customer contacts you after business hours, you can forward those calls to a self-selecting directory, voicemail system, or to a call processing center that can handle the call. Another add-on, called “CallMeClick,” enables those who browse your website to instantly initiate a call by clicking on a link on your website. It is because of these functions and more that VoIP and virtual phone numbers are at the forefront of modern business communication.