How to Start a Creative Business: 3 Steps to Launch Without the Overwhelm

*Published May 22, 2025*

Thinking about starting your own creative business ✨ but feeling all kinds of overwhelmed?

I’ve been there, friend. You’ve got big dreams and a whole lot of heart, but the second you start thinking about paperwork, platforms, and what-the-heck-is-an-LLC, it’s enough to make you shut your laptop and binge another season of something.

Good news? You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need a clear place to start.

Let me show you the three baby steps 🪜 I took to get my creative biz rolling, and I promise, they’re simple as sweet tea in July.

Step 1: 🗂️ Pick Your Business Setup

This is the part where most folks freeze, but it’s really not that scary.

For most creatives, setting up an LLC is a solid choice. It keeps your personal stuff protected and makes you look official (and y’all, you are!).

- Head to your Secretary of State’s website and look up “LLC registration.”

- Not sure where to begin? ZenBusiness and LegalZoom make it real simple.

- And you’ll probably need an EIN from the IRS. It’s free and takes 5 minutes.

**Quick win:** Don’t overthink it. Just pick your lane and take the first step.

Step 2: 📱 Choose Where You’ll Show Up

Instead of trying to be everywhere, start where your people are.

- Got products? Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, or Shopify could be your jam.

- Want to build a brand or grow a following? Instagram and TikTok are where it’s at.

- Offering services? Start with IG or LinkedIn and keep it real.

**Pro tip:** Pick one place and show up consistently for 30 days. That’s it.

Step 3: ✍️ Create a Mini Action Plan

If your to-do list is 3 miles long, it’s no wonder you’re stuck.

Let’s shrink that list down. Here’s a 7-day starter plan that’ll get your wheels turning:

- Day 1: Come up with your business name

- Day 2: Draft your Instagram bio

- Day 3: Grab your domain name

- Day 4: Whip up a simple logo in Canva

- Day 5: Film a quick intro video (messy is fine!)

- Day 6: Look up one competitor or mentor

- Day 7: Post your first piece of content

**Remember:** Done is better than perfect. You’re building momentum.

Final Thoughts 💭

Listen, starting something new is always a little scary. But you don’t need a big ol’ plan. You just need a little faith and one small step in the right direction.

You’ve got this 💪. And I’ve got your back.