Start Smart: Essentials for Starting a Small Business

Schedule

Thu Aug 21 2025 at 06:00 pm to 07:30 pm

UTC-04:00

Location

The Chattery Downtown | Chattanooga, TN

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Get ready to kickstart your small business with all the essential tips and tricks you need!
About this Event

How many times have you heard (or told someone), "You should sell that," or "Have you considered starting a business doing (insert your service here)?" These simple words often plant the seed of entrepreneurship, leading people to wonder if they could actually turn their ideas into a business—and how to get started.

In this class, you’ll learn the essential steps to set up a small business for success, right from the beginning. Whether you’re starting with a product, a service, or simply a concept, we’ll guide you through the foundational elements every aspiring business owner needs to know.

What You’ll Learn:

- Choosing the Right Business Entity & Licenses

- Business Finances & Best Practices

- Pricing Your Services and Products

- Hiring & HR Considerations

- Local Resources for Entrepreneurs

Interactive Format:

This class is designed to be highly interactive, offering real-time discussions and practical advice. Bring your questions! Whether you're in the early brainstorming stage or actively planning, this is your opportunity to get personalized guidance and clarity on your next steps.

What You’ll Walk Away With:

By the end of the class, you'll have a checklist and actionable resources to help you get your business up and running. You’ll leave with a clearer path forward—and the confidence to launch your business.

Who Should Attend:

- Aspiring entrepreneurs with a business idea

- Side-hustlers considering turning their passion into a full-time venture

- Individuals looking to formalize or grow their small business

Take the first step toward turning your idea into a business. Sign up today and start your entrepreneurial journey with the right tools for success!

About the teacher:

Meet Melissa Guinn – Owner of Lookout Bookkeeping, LLC

If you had asked Melissa years ago if she ever imagined running a successful bookkeeping business from home, her answer would have been a resounding no. For over two decades after college, Melissa worked as an athletic trainer—following the path she had studied for and loved. During this time, she also built a thriving home-based direct sales business, her first real taste of being a small business owner.

When Melissa eventually decided to transition out of athletic training, a unique opportunity presented itself. She was invited to work for a friend, where she took on the behind-the-scenes tasks that had become overwhelming for the owner. It didn’t take long for her to discover what she loved about the role: bookkeeping.

After three years of honing her skills and gaining valuable experience, Melissa took the leap to start her own venture. In 2021, Lookout Bookkeeping was born, allowing her to transform her passion into a thriving business that helps other entrepreneurs succeed.

Outside of her professional life, loves traveling with her husband and children, always on the lookout for new adventures to share together.

For details about our refund and class cancellation policy, visit .

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Where is it happening?

The Chattery Downtown, 231 Broad Street, Chattanooga, United States

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

Tickets

USD 28.52

The Chattery

Host or Publisher The Chattery

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