Please support us by clicking through our links. We may earn affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Start a Gift Wrapping Business

Transforming Ordinary Gifts into Extraordinary Surprises

By Business.How Team
| Updated
gift boxes on table
Camera Icon Mel Poole / Unsplash

GIFT WRAPPING BUSINESS

Unleash your creative spirit and venture into the vibrant world of a gift wrapping business! In this delightful endeavor, your canvas becomes ribbons, boxes, and bows, where you craft visually stunning packages that can make any gift even more special. This business model mainly involves wrapping gifts uniquely and attractively for anyone always rushing to their next event. As the adage goes, "It's not just the gift, but the thought that wraps it that counts," and boy, does your brilliantly packaged gift speak volumes about thoughtfulness!

Jump to Business Plan


Browse ALL Arts & Crafts Business Ideas


Discover Your Perfect Domain

Unlock the door to your online success with our hand-picked selection of premium domain names. Whether you're starting a new venture or rebranding an existing one, the right domain can set the tone for your digital presence. Browse through our curated list, each with its unique potential to enhance your brand's visibility and credibility.


GIFT WRAPPING MINI BUSINESS PLAN

This a quick reality check to help you identify the strengths and weaknesses of your business concept before you dive in.

Expected Percent Margin:

  • Gross Margin: 75-85%
  • Net Profit Margin: 20-30%

Earnings Expectations:

  1. Daily Earnings: $100 - $200
  2. Weekly Earnings: $700 - $1,400
  3. Monthly Earnings: $3,000 - $6,000
  4. Annual Earnings: $36,000 - $72,000

Actions to Hit Those Numbers:

Inventory Management:
  • Initial Investment: At least $1,000-$2,000 for a wide range of wrapping materials.
  • Supplier Network: Develop relationships with suppliers who provide good quality wrapping paper, ribbons, boxes etc.
Marketing and Customer Acquisition:
  • Social Media: Regularly post beautiful wrapping designs on social media to attract attention.
  • Local Advertising: Participate in local events/expos to advertise your services.
Services and Customer Experience:
  • Staffing: Hiring a few employees if the workload is high especially during holiday season.
  • Service Variety: Offer a variety of wrapping services - simple, premium, customized, corporate, etc.
Cost Control:
  • Rent: Start home-based or online to save on rent.
  • Utilities and Maintenance: Electricity expenditure for things like a heat gun for shrink wrapping.
Business Operations:
  • Pick-up and Delivery Service: Offer this service for customer convenience.
  • Transaction Volume: Aim for 20 transactions/day with a cost of $5-$10 per gift wrapped.

These are general expected figures and can differ based on location, economic conditions, and specific business strategies. Always consult with a financial advisor for personalized financial advice.


NOT WHAT YOU HAD IN MIND? Here are more ideas

Browse ALL Arts & Crafts Business Ideas


Grab Your Business Website Name

Before you get caught up in the whirlwind of setting up your business, invest in a domain name. It's a small but significant step that lays the foundation for your brand and makes it easier for customers to find and trust you. Just like you wouldn't build a house without securing the land first, don't build a business without securing your domain name.

"Why? Can't that wait?" Here's why it shouldn't


Step 1: Determine if the Business is Right for You

Starting a gift wrapping business can be a great way to make money and provide a service to the community. Before getting started, it is important to take a look at the startup and ongoing expenses associated with the business. This will help you determine if the business is right for you.

When it comes to startup expenses, you will need to consider the cost of supplies such as wrapping paper, ribbon, tape, scissors, and other materials. You will also need to consider the cost of marketing materials such as business cards, flyers, and website design. Additionally, you may need to factor in the cost of renting a space for your business, if necessary.

When it comes to ongoing expenses, you will need to consider the cost of replenishing supplies, as well as any other costs associated with running the business. You will also need to consider the cost of advertising and marketing, as well as any other expenses associated with keeping the business running.

When it comes to making money, you can charge a fee for each gift wrap job. You can also offer additional services such as gift tags, bows, and other decorations. Additionally, you can offer discounts for bulk orders or offer discounts for repeat customers.

Step 2: Name the Business

Tips on how to choose a name

When selecting a name for your gift wrapping business, it is important to choose a name that is memorable and reflects the type of business you are running. Consider the type of gift wrapping services you will offer and the target market you are trying to reach. Think of words that are associated with the services you will provide, such as wrapping, gifting, or packaging. Additionally, you may want to include your own name or initials in the business name. This will help customers remember and recognize your business.

Examples of successful business names

There are many successful gift wrapping businesses that have memorable and creative names. For example, Wrapped to Perfection, Gift Wrapping Solutions, and Wrapped in Love are all great examples of gift wrapping business names. These names are simple and easy to remember, while also conveying the services that the businesses provide. Additionally, these names are all unique and stand out from the competition.

Step 3: Create a Business Plan

Outline of what should be included in the plan

A business plan should include a description of the business, a market analysis, a competitive analysis, a description of the products or services, a description of the management team, a financial plan, and a description of the marketing strategy. It should also include a timeline for when each step of the plan should be completed. Additionally, the plan should include a budget for startup costs and ongoing expenses.

Benefits of creating a business plan

Creating a business plan is an important step in starting a gift wrapping business. It helps to ensure that all aspects of the business are considered and that the business is well-prepared for success. A business plan also helps to identify potential risks and opportunities and provides a roadmap for how to achieve the goals of the business. Additionally, a business plan is often necessary to secure financing for the business. Finally, having a business plan helps to keep the business organized and on track.

Step 4: Obtain Licenses and Permits

Types of licenses and permits needed

Depending on the location, there may be different types of licenses and permits needed to operate a gift wrapping business. Generally, a business license, sales tax permit, and zoning permit are necessary. Depending on the size of the business, a federal tax ID number may also be required. Additionally, if the business is located in a commercial space, a certificate of occupancy may be necessary.

How to obtain licenses and permits

The best way to obtain the necessary licenses and permits is to contact the local government office that handles business licensing. They will be able to provide a list of the licenses and permits needed and the process for obtaining them. Additionally, a lawyer or accountant may be able to provide assistance with the process. It is important to make sure that all licenses and permits are obtained before the business begins operations.

Step 5: Find a Location

Factors to consider when choosing a location for a gift wrapping business include the amount of space needed, the cost of rent, the availability of parking, and the visibility of the location. It is important to consider the amount of space needed to store supplies, wrap gifts, and accommodate customers. The cost of rent should be taken into account when selecting a location, as it can have a major impact on the business’s profitability. Additionally, the availability of parking is important to consider, as customers may need to park their vehicles when visiting the business. Finally, the visibility of the location should be taken into account, as it can help to attract customers.

Tips on finding a suitable location for a gift wrapping business include researching local zoning laws, talking to local business owners, and visiting potential locations. It is important to research local zoning laws to ensure that the business is allowed to operate in the chosen location. Additionally, talking to local business owners can provide valuable insight into the area and help to identify potential locations. Finally, visiting potential locations can help to determine if the space is suitable for the business’s needs.

Step 6: Purchase Supplies

Types of supplies needed

When starting a gift wrapping business, it is important to purchase the right supplies. This includes wrapping paper, tissue paper, ribbons, bows, gift bags, gift boxes, and other decorative items. It is important to purchase a variety of supplies in different colors, sizes, and patterns to accommodate different types of gifts. Additionally, it is important to purchase supplies that are of good quality and will last a long time.

Tips on finding the best supplies

When purchasing supplies, it is important to shop around to find the best deals. Many craft stores offer discounts on bulk purchases, so it is important to take advantage of these deals. Additionally, online stores can be a great resource for finding supplies at a lower cost. It is also important to consider the quality of the supplies and purchase items that will last a long time. Finally, it is important to purchase supplies in a variety of colors, sizes, and patterns to accommodate different types of gifts.

Step 7: Market the Business

Examples of marketing strategies

When it comes to marketing a gift wrapping business, there are a variety of strategies that can be employed. These include creating a website, using social media, participating in local events, and creating promotional materials. Additionally, it is important to consider offering discounts and promotions to draw in customers.

Tips on how to effectively market the business

It is important to create a marketing plan that outlines the goals and objectives of the business. Additionally, it is important to research the target market and create a strategy that is tailored to their needs. Additionally, it is important to create a budget for marketing and advertising and stick to it. Additionally, it is important to track the success of the marketing campaigns to ensure that they are effective. Finally, it is important to be consistent and persistent in marketing the business.

Step 8: Set Prices

When setting prices for your gift wrapping business, there are several factors to consider. First, you should consider the cost of materials. This includes the cost of wrapping paper, ribbons, bows, and other materials needed to complete the job. You should also consider the cost of labor, which includes the cost of your time and any employees you may hire. Additionally, you should consider the cost of any overhead expenses such as rent, utilities, and insurance. Finally, you should consider the cost of marketing and advertising.

When setting prices, it is important to remain competitive. You should research the prices of similar businesses in your area and adjust your prices accordingly. You should also consider the quality of your services and materials. If you offer a superior product, you can charge a higher price. Additionally, you should consider any discounts or promotions you can offer. For example, you could offer a discount for bulk orders or a discount for repeat customers. Finally, you should consider any additional services you can offer that may increase the price. For example, you could offer gift baskets or gift cards in addition to gift wrapping services.

Step 9: Manage the Business

Tips on how to manage the business

Running a successful gift wrapping business requires careful management. This includes setting up systems to ensure that orders are fulfilled in a timely manner, managing customer service inquiries, and staying on top of accounting and tax paperwork. Additionally, it is important to stay organized and keep up with the latest trends in the industry.

Examples of successful management strategies

One way to stay organized is to create a filing system for all of the paperwork associated with running the business. Additionally, it is important to stay on top of customer service inquiries and orders by setting up an email system or customer service hotline. It is also important to stay up to date with the latest trends in the industry by attending trade shows and networking with other gift wrapping businesses. Finally, it is important to stay on top of accounting and tax paperwork by hiring a qualified accountant or bookkeeper.


EXPLORE MORE CATEGORIES

Browse ALL Business Idea Categories


TAKE THE NEXT STEPS