Tablature Tattoo will open a small tattoo parlor in suburban Greenwood, NJ, where both tattoo newbies and collectors will be able to work with two established, talented artists. The business offers basic tattoos, one-hour tattoos, and full sessions with the artists. As needed, the artists are available for extended consultations or custom design work. The business will also offer a variety of clothing items and posters featuring artworks created by the artists. To launch their business, Jake Hunt, a husband and wife and Julie Hunt, a tattoo artist and retail manager, need a $10,000 three-year loan.

The $22,200 required to launch the business is minimal due to the low capital requirements of this business and the plan to use low-cost advertising techniques and direct selling to reach initial customers. Due to the low startup cost and high margins on tattoo work (75%), the business can generate positive cash flow in 6 months. It will also be able to repay the loan quickly. The owners will receive impressive dividends and a generous salary for the freelance artists. Based on the full time work of these three artists, the company’s sales will exceed $300,000.

Objectives

Tablature Tattoo will accomplish the following three-year-old goals:

• In year three, achieve annual revenues in the region of $330,000
• Over 3 years, created 5446 Tattoos
• Earn net profits for the owners, for significant total compensation to the two owners including salaries and dividends

Mission

Tablature Tattoo creates safe and impressive tattoo art for Greenwood, NJ customers through tattoos as well as other products featuring artwork by the shop’s tattoo artists. Jack and Julie Hunt are the owners. The business will provide a steady income while they share the profits with an additional employee artist who will assist in building the business.

Keys to Success

Here are some keys to success for tattoo shops.

1. Encourage repeat customers, or collectors, to return for full sessions with artists that they love.
2. Making the health and care of customers and tattoos a top priority to ensure the safety of the customers, employees, and business
3. It is a pleasure to work with talented artists and encourage their expression and freedom.