How to Start & Brand Your Business
This is the step-by-step guide to take your business from idea to identity.
**Friendly heads-up: I’m not a lawyer or a licensed business advisor - just a creative business owner sharing what’s worked for me (and what I wish I’d known sooner). Always check your local and state requirements or talk to a professional if you’re unsure.
So, you’ve got the big idea. The brand vision. Maybe even a logo idea sketched on a napkin. But how do you actually start a business - from securing the name and website to getting legally legit?
At Ryen Creative, we help the dreamer and the doers get their sh*t together and create a brand that converts. Here’s my definitive guide to launching your new brand and business the smart way.
Step 1: Choose and Vet Your Business Name
Before you get attached to that name you love, make sure it’s available.
Checklist:
❏ Google It: Is anyone already using it?
❏ Domain Name Search: I, of course, prefer Squarespace… but there are many other sites you can search and register your domain with too. (Just keep in mind, if you’re my client, we’re 99.99% likely to be building your new website with Squarespace, and having purchased your domain with Squarespace makes it easier and faster when it’s time to go live! Why Squarespace? That’s a story for another time.)
❏ Social Media Handles: Check Instagram, TikTok, X (Twitter), Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn.
❏ Trademark Search: Visit the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to see if the name is already trademarked.
💡 Pro Tip: Your brand name should be unique, easy to spell, and ideally available across domain + social platforms.
Step 2: Secure Your Digital Real Estate
Once you know the name is free, lock it down fast. Yes, even before you file anything official!
Buy Your Domain Name
Prioritize .com, but also grab .co or .net if relevant.
Consider buying common misspellings or variations.
Claim Your Social Media Handles
Even if you’re not ready to post, claim your username across major platforms.
Use a tool like Namechk to check availability in one go.
Step 3: Register Your Business Name (Fictitious Name / DBA)
If your business name is different from your legal name, you’ll need to register it as a fictitious name (aka “Doing Business As” or DBA).
Where to Register:
Most states handle DBAs through the Secretary of State or Department of Corporations.
In Florida, go to Sunbiz.org.
Some states require you to publish the name in a local newspaper for a certain period.
📝 Pro Tip: Don’t skip this step - it’s required to open a bank account under your business name.
Step 4: Choose a Legal Business Structure
Most new businesses form one of the following:
Sole Proprietorship – Simple, but no liability protection.
LLC (Limited Liability Company) – Flexible, with personal liability protection.
Corporation – More complex; ideal for investors or high-growth startups.
Register Your Business:
Go through your Secretary of State’s website.
You’ll need:
Business name
Physical address
Registered agent info
Business purpose
📍 State-Specific Tip: Filing fees and requirements vary widely. For example, Florida’s LLC filing fee is $125, while California charges $70 plus a $20 Statement of Information.
Step 5: Apply for Your EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Your EIN is your business’s federal tax ID - kind of like a Social Security number for your biz.
How to Apply:
Go to the IRS EIN Assistant.
It’s FREE and you’ll get your number immediately.
🔑 Required For: Opening a business bank account, hiring employees, and filing taxes.
Step 6: Open a Business Bank Account
Keep your personal and business finances separate - it’s essential for taxes, bookkeeping and legit business ops.
What You’ll Need:
EIN
Articles of Organization (from your LLC or Corp)
Fictitious Name Certificate (if applicable)
ID and proof of address
Check with local banks or credit unions for small business-friendly options.
Step 7: Build Your Brand Identity
Now the fun part, and where I actually come in… branding.
Essentials:
Logo (primary + secondary)
Brand colors + fonts
Voice + tone
Mission statement + values
Website + email setup (use Google Workspace for a professional look)
Step 8: Trademark Your Name and Logo
If you want national protection of your brand name and logo, consider registering a trademark with the USPTO.
The Process:
Search the TESS database to ensure availability.
Apply online via the Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS).
Cost: $250–$350 per class of goods/services.
Wait: Approval can take 6–12 months.
🛡️ Pro Tip: You can use ™ without registration, but only ® once the trademark is approved.
Optional but Recommended:
Set Up Accounting Software: Try QuickBooks, Wave, or FreshBooks.
Set Up Google Business Profile: Boost visibility, especially for local businesses.
Need help with the branding piece?
Ryen Creative builds bold, intentional brands with clarity, soul and just enough edge to stand out from the crowd. Let’s create something that feels like you.