We have a business location -- yay! My new goal is to be open by February 2012. Suddenly, there is so much to do and so little time.

My brain is bogged down by all these little details. I’ve been toggling between the big picture and the necessary details so much that I literally had to draw a picture to help maintain my sanity.

So, I organized everything that needs to be done into categories. Each category has its own checklist of items that need to be completed to better position ourselves for a successful opening. For instance, the Location, Location, Location category had a checklist that included:
1. Find a broker
2. Find a start-up friendly location
3. Negotiate terms
4. Consider involving an attorney
5. Sign the lease
6. Get the keys

Very happy to say that the Location category is officially checked off my list, and I’m already breathing easier.

Another easy category to check off the list was getting our storefront and future nail techs' work insured. While preparing my business plan, I contacted a few insurance companies/agencies. I came across Insure Beauty and asked them for a quote. Their customer service was A-MAZ-ING! They provided me with an estimate for my business plan a few months ago. Then, when I emailed them seeking to move forward with the policy, everything was handled before I could blink. I was also able to add my landlord to the insurance policy as an “additional insured.”

Now, I’ve moved onto the Mini Build-out piece. I have a meeting with the plumber on Saturday and the Signage Contractor will also stop by to take measurements for our awning. I will even attempt to create our "Coming Soon" storefront display myself. Now, this requires a deep gasp because I’ve never attempted a window display before…but I think I can.

I’m still slowly but surely getting through the Licenses & Permits section. I was able to check another item off that list AND reduce our zoning fees significantly by doing extra legwork and researching.

Can you tell that breathing is a whole lot easier for me these days? The pieces are actually coming together!

Our mantra for the next few months is…I think I can. I think I can.

--Makeda, Posh'aah Nail Spa, Chicago