Lemonade Stand Business Sense

By Violette

The other day I noticed a boy on my street had what appeared to be a lemonade stand. Since I like to support children and their entrepreneurial ventures, I stopped to buy some lemonade.

I asked the kid if I could have a glass of lemonade. He looked up at me and said "I don't have any cups. I don't have very many supplies." What a dilemma. I told him I would go home and bring him some disposable cups. I came back with the cups and noticed no sign at all. So I asked him how much the drinks were and he said he wasn't sure … maybe 50 cents for half a cup or 1.00 for a full cup. He was pretty nonchalant about the whole thing. I sprung for the full cup since all I had was a dollar and it didn't appear that the budding entrepreneur had any change.

What did I learn from this little exchange which could be used in business?

1. Always have signs to make it easy for people to know what you're selling.


2. Have enough of what you're selling when you set up shop.


3. Give discounts when people help you out.


4. Tell your customers to tell all their friends about you and your product.


5. Always be enthusiastic with your customers.


6. And for goodness sakes … if you're selling something to drink, make sure you have containers to hold the beverage! •

© 2005 Violette. All rights reserved.

About the Author | More by Violette
Violette is a whimsical creative spirit living in B.C., Canada. She can be found driving her Glittergirl van around White Rock, B.C. and living in the Magic Cottage. You can find out more about her art, workshops, and read her online blog at www.violette.ca.