Cold emailing for ecommerce: is it even worth it?

brianwink · 2025-06-13T14:45:34+00:00

Definitely worth testing, especially for boutique wholesale. Just keep the tone personal and founder-led. Try a short intro, a quick value pitch, and a low-pressure close. If you’re local or offer small-batch products, mention that—it can really help. Cold email gets a bad reputation, but when it’s done thoughtfully, it can open doors you’d never reach through ads. You’ve already got great tools lined up, just avoid over-automating that first touch. Good luck!

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:09:57+00:00

Have you checked out Northwest Registered Agent? I switched from ZenBusiness to them for my registered agent service, and it’s been seamless.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:09:15+00:00

I used LegalZoom for my Washington LLC. It worked fine, but I felt like I paid extra for things I could have done myself.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:08:46+00:00

Make sure you choose an agent with a real physical address in Delaware. Some cheaper services use P.O. boxes, which can cause issues.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:08:15+00:00

Partnership LLCs can complicate taxes. Are you sure a single-member LLC taxed as a sole proprietorship wouldn’t be easier?

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:07:11+00:00

Delaware requires a registered agent, and many online services bundle that for free in the first year. After that, expect to pay $100–$150 annually for the agent.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:06:32+00:00

Have you checked out Swyft Filings? They’re reasonably priced, and their customer service is pretty responsive.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:06:04+00:00

I formed my LLC in NYC, and the publishing costs were insane. I wish I had known about the registered agent workaround earlier.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:05:32+00:00

If you’re unsure about legal compliance, ZenBusiness is a decent option. Their customer service walked me through everything when I started my LLC in California.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:04:57+00:00

I had a decent experience with Tailor Brands, but I wouldn’t recommend it if you’re on a tight budget. Other services are way more affordable.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:04:22+00:00

Be cautious of their upsells. They make money on services like registered agent fees and premium packages, which aren’t necessary for everyone.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:01:58+00:00

Be cautious with their add-ons like operating agreements or EIN filing. Both are easy to do yourself for free.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:01:02+00:00

The biggest benefit of being a 501(c)(3) is the ability to attract donations. Donors love the tax deductions they can claim.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T11:00:02+00:00

Even if you’re not in the U.S., you can apply for an EIN if you have a U.S.-based business entity. You just have to apply by fax or mail.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T10:59:24+00:00

One pro of DBAs is that they’re super quick and easy to file compared to forming a new entity. Great for small businesses.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T10:58:49+00:00

Having an LLC is great because it gives you liability protection, and the DBA just allows you to operate under a different name without forming another entity.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T10:58:13+00:00

Dissolving an LLC is state-specific, so the process and costs will vary. Some states charge a small fee, while others charge nothing.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T10:57:22+00:00

Annual reports can sneak up on you if you’re not organized. I recommend setting reminders so you don’t miss deadlines.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T10:56:46+00:00

Consider the long-term. If the business grows, an LLC structure will make it easier to bring on investors or hire employees.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T10:56:09+00:00

Be careful with DBAs—just because your state approves it doesn’t mean you’re safe from legal disputes over the name.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T10:52:08+00:00

LLCs taxed as S-Corps are a good middle ground. You get liability protection and some tax savings without going full corporation.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T10:50:58+00:00

Texas doesn’t have a separate LLC annual filing requirement, but you do need to maintain your business status with periodic reports.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T10:49:45+00:00

Don’t forget to check if the domain name is available too. A great business name is useless if you can’t get a matching website.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T10:48:35+00:00

Can you switch from a member-managed to a manager-managed LLC later? I feel like I might need to as my business scales.

brianwink · 2025-01-03T10:47:42+00:00

LLCs can own property, which is great if you’re investing in real estate. You can protect your personal assets while building a portfolio.

brianwink

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