Mainebiz

V O L . X X X N O. X I M AY 1 3 , 2 0 2 4 28 S M A L L B U S I N E S S F O C U S the many other details of running her own business. With the encouragement of friends and family, she reached out to Maine SBDC and connected with Susan Desgrosseilliers, a business advisor with the University of Southern Maine. ey worked on the website, discussed whole- sale opportunities, reviewed financial goals, analyzed the trademark name, discussed regulations, reviewed e-com- merce practices and other marketing ideas, and examined how DeLorme's background as an integrative physical therapist, health coach and herbalist sets her products apart and adds to the value proposition. DeLorme invested about $10,000 in the startup, converting a large space in her Scarborough home for com- mercial production. Now entering its third year, the company broke even this year with online sales and five retail partners. One partner, Canopy Hotel, is featur- ing her products on an "artisan wall" this month, which provides further exposure. eir luxury suites have her customized blended soap with a bee motif on them, with orders of 200 soaps at a time. e plan is to align with more boutique hotels and bou- tique marketplaces. DeLorme continues working with SBDC advisor Chris Cole to build a wholesale catalog and work toward meeting financial goals. "You don't have to do it alone," she says. Like DeLorme, clients approach SBDC with a mix of business sophistication. "We get a few people who are back of the napkin," says Delisle. "ey just have a dream. ey have an idea. But they haven't gone far with it at all." Most have some experience and some understanding of what they want to do. Maybe they've worked in restaurants and now they want to start their own. "en it varies from there on the continuum," says Delisle. "Some people come in with a roughed-out business plan. Others don't know where to start." Unknown unknowns Julian Erickson-Watson knew what his big idea was but had only a rudi- mentary plan. In 2021, Erickson-Watson, a California native, graduated from college in Massachusetts and moved to Portland. He loved pottery and decided to open a teaching studio. "With FAME's support, LooHoo is positioned for continued growth and success." Cyndi Prince, Founder & CEO FAME LOOHOO, Camden Helping Maine Businesses Succeed Since 1983 1-800-228-3734 • FAMEmaine.com 9-Time Winner, Best Places to Work in Maine (2015–2023) Kennebec Savings Bank offers the financial products and solutions to keep up with your growing needs. Call (207) 622-5801 to prioritize your success! www.KennebecSavings.Bank NOW OPEN AT 53 BAXTER BLVD., PORTLAND YOUR LOCAL BANKING PARTNER. Business Banking with Local Decision Making. » C O N T I N U E D F RO M PA G E 2 6

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