I’m looking to start a small handmade jewelry business on the side, since this is a hobby I’d be doing anyway, I see no harm in trying. I have my brand name, etc. down, but I keep getting stuck in this loop:
I feel like I need to trademark my name before registering an LLC or establishing an online presence, but then I also don’t want to waste my money on trademarking the name if my business doesn’t do well. I keep thinking I should start a website + social media accounts for the brand first to establish a presence and audience, but then I get concerned that someone will steal the brand name for themselves if it’s not already trademarked. This has led to complete decision paralysis.
I don’t have a ton of money to pour into this business other than for materials, so trademarking would mean navigating that myself without a lawyer. I’m mostly just confused on where to start.
No one’s going to steal your brand, unless you are very successful. In that case, you have other things to worry about and you can invest in trademarks and other protection. Your only goal in the beginning is to launch and generate revenue.
One guy asked me once to protect his website with very mediocre photos from right click saving, because he was afraid people might steal his pictures. I think he had 10 visitors after a year. Don’t be like that guy. Just build your business.