Client Profile: Fostering LLC

Here at Safe Shield we are proud to have a variety of clients ranging in many different businesses. Today we are excited to profile one of our clients, Matt Foster the owner of Fostering LLC.

Matt has made a name for himself in the St. Cloud area by customizing CRM solutions for the past 7 years. In February of 2014 Matt decided to go full time in the CRM business world and soon after sought out Safe Shield's services to make sure his LLC was set up properly.

Matt has always been familiar with entrepreneurship being around his father's successful business growing up. “The Entrepreneurial spirit is in my blood. My father owned his own business for over 50 years. I get energized knowing I can service my clients the right way and made decisions to move in that manner.”

Foster credits flexibility, freedom to carve his own path, and creating viable solutions for others as the most rewarding parts of owning his own company. He says Safe Shield has been a no-brainer for the service and the peace of mind. “Some of the beginning challenges are the “sideline” work just to get incorporated, business banking accounts, filings and insurance. I started my LLC over 6 years ago all by myself and realized that I wasn’t properly covered.”

In March of 2014 Safe Shield went to work researching the filings Matt had previously done, making the necessary changes and updating all the records for Fostering LLC. “I appreciate having someone trustworthy to call if I have questions and have all my documents online whenever I need them.”

For the future Matt plans to continue to grow Fostering LLC. “I truly enjoy serving other local business, knowing they are more efficient and profitable after our interactions.”

If you are looking into making some CRM improvements and would like to learn more about Fostering LLC, visit their website here:http://fosteringllc.com/

Safe Shield Keeps Filing Easy With it's Online Interface

At Safe Shield we make small business owners' lives a lot easier by monitoring their ever changing compliance standards, initiating regular compliance reviews, generating detailed documentation, and managing all of their business records. Continuing with this trend Safe Shield developed an online corporate record book for its clients to keep all of their business documents in one easy place.

Business owners no longer need to deal with the hassle of updating a stack of physical business records. Safe Shield manages all of your business records in a secure online environment allowing you convenient, any time access as well as the ability to share access with business associates and any of your other trusted advisors.

Caryn Stadther of Falcon National Bank explains that their company has greatly benefited from Safe Shield's easy online corporate record book. “We really are able to help our customers better by using Safe Shield's online record keeping. With the systems Safe Shield has in place, we can easily gather the documents we need to help our customers with their deposit accounts or loan needs.”

 

If you own multiple businesses, Safe Shield's online corporate record book also gives you access to all of the businesses you own in one convenient location.

 

Trust Safe Shield to manage your business documents and experience the Safe Shield difference! 

Safe Shield website

Benefits of an LLC

Limited Liability Companies, or LLCs, have seen a surge in popularity in recent years. There’s a good reason for it; the business model is incredibly flexible, and highly effective, if properly created and maintained. At Safe Shield, we have the expertise to get your LLC off the ground - here are a few features that make it worth considering.

A limited liability company, or LLC, is succinctly described by the U.S. Small Business Association as “a hybrid type of legal structure that provides the limited liability features of a corporation and the tax efficiencies and operational flexibility of a partnership.”

Sounds a little complicated? Probably. Still, all of this amounts to a very solid business model…but only if properly maintained.

What else do you need to know about LLCs?

Benefits of an LLC:

Flexibility

The owner or owners of an LLC are referred to as "members." Depending on the state, the members can consist of a single individual (one owner), two or more individuals, corporations or even other LLCs. In an LLC, percentage of ownership can be divided up in any way; all that matters is that the ownership totals up to 100%.

Taxation

LLCs are not taxed as separate entities, like corporations. Instead, these profits or losses pass through the business over to each member of the LLC. In turn, LLC members report financial happenings on their personal federal tax returns - just like the owners of a partnership would. However, an LLC also has the flexibility to elect S-Corp status with the IRS. This means that the legal structure is still that of an LLC, but the IRS treats the LLC as an S-Corporation for tax purposes.

Assets are Protected

By properly establishing and maintaining an LLC, small business owners gain a layer of protection. For example, if someone files a lawsuit against the LLC, the individual officers and members are typically not held personally liable on the judgment. This is a major bonus; a major financial situation such as a lawsuit can sink a small company. This means that LLCs can function as a huge security measure.

An LLC is only as strong as it’s structure; as we mentioned, if your LLC is not set up and regulated with care, it is doomed to fail. So, if you’re planning on establishing a business, and are contemplating the LLC structure, give us a ring at Safe Shield and we’ll help you navigate!

Client Profile: Guytano Magno Photography

Here at Safe Shield, our business success is reflected perfectly in the successes of our clients. Today, we’re profiling Guytano Magno - the owner and head photographer of Guytano Magno Photography.

Magno has made quite a name for himself - and expanded his business - in a relatively short amount of time. Magno has been shooting weddings for the better part of a decade, but made the decision to create an entity and formalize his photography business three years ago.

Magno cites several reasons for forming his own business. He says he’s always been an adventurous, independent person, so the idea of starting something of his own - something without limitations - has always been very appealing.

“I don’t feel like I have a ceiling…in any capacity,” Magno explains. “The only thing that will hinder the growth of the business is me.”

Magno also appreciates the flexibility that comes with being able to craft his own work schedule.

“I work much harder now, but I have the control to take time off whenever I choose,” Magno says. “This is a huge blessing when it comes to helping my wife raise our beautiful son -  I love slow mornings when the 3 of us get to spend time together at the house.”

This blessing, however, does not come without cost. Magno says, as a business owner, he faces unique challenges all the time - many related to growth.

“If your business never grows or changes, you can stay put in the same structures you’ve always had,” Magno explains. “But, if you are growing and adapting, you will need to figure out how to do that in a way that is right and healthy.”

Magno says Safe Shield has been an integral part of making those growing pains manageable. While he’s only been working with Safe Shield for a few months, Magno says, since then, he’s developed a subsidiary business under the umbrella of the main business, hired a new employee, and remodeled his studio. Magno says Safe Shield's services have given him the structure and support he’s needed during this busy time. “All of these things take planning and structuring. Safe Shield has been invaluable in doing those things well.”

We have little doubt Guytano Magno Photography will continue to boom. The proof is in what Magno told us when asked what the future holds.

“I would like to go to the moon…or anything else equally ambitious.” Safe Shield is very excited to be along for the ride!

4 HOME-BASED BUSINESSES TO KEEP AN EYE ON

When it comes to self-employment, perhaps no other industry has provided quite the volume of opportunities as direct sales businesses. In fact, Women’s Day Magazine reports that, in 2009, over 16 million Americans generated more than 28 billion dollars in revenue from these home-based, consultation and party-style enterprises.

Some names - Avon, Mary Kay, Amway - are those you’ve probably heard. These are companies that have been granting extra income to home-based entrepreneurs for decades. But, there’s a whole new crop of direct-sales companies rising in popularity.

If you’re one of the millions of people kicking around the idea of joining this industry, take a peek at this list of 4 up-and-coming companies you might want to look into.

YOUNIQUE COSMETICS

Founded in 2012, this direct-sales cosmetics company has been expanding rapidly with an extensive inventory of natural cosmetics. Distributors, called “presenters,” typically make sales via an online presence, along with home and online demonstration parties. Online research finds presenters need to spend $99 on a start-up kit, and can expect to make a 25% commission on sales. Basically, $1,000 in sales nets the seller about $150.

THIRTY-ONE GIFTS

According to their website, Thirty-One Gifts formed 10 years ago “with a simple goal of helping women by giving them an opportunity to own their own business.” The business boasts a wide-ranging inventory with everything from handbags to stationary to creative storage solutions - and a nationwide consultant force of over 80,000. While not as new as some of our profiled companies, Thirty-One Gifts has staying power; it ranked 5th for fastest-growing Multi-Level-Marketing (MLM) companies in 2011, with over $100 million in profit.

JAMBERRY NAILS

This direct-seller, formed in 2010, has seen marked success with women by selling ready-to-wear decorative nail strips. Like all reputable work-at-home businesses, Jamberry has an online presence for customers to shop without a sales agent. However, the company employs thousands of sellers around the US who actually stand to earn a fair amount through commission. After a $99 startup cost, a Jamberry consultant will earn 30% commission from all sales.

LILLA ROSE

While not particularly new when compared to other direct-sales companies, Lilla Rose bears mentioning simply because it’s got a solid reputation. The business formed in 1992, selling all varieties of hair accessories. Like many other home-based businesses, consultants are encouraged to host parties to lure more customers and possibly consultants. The model has worked well for them; according to Find the Best, Lilla Rose consultants earn a 40% sales commission, one of the highest in the direct-sales universe.

Direct sales is a huge empire, and folks interested in venturing into it are not going to have trouble finding a product or company that interests them. Are you self-employed as a direct sales consultant? What’s the experience like for you? Leave us a comment below - and good luck!

Client Profile: Solid Rock Home Innovations

Here at Safe Shield, our business success is reflected perfectly in the successes of our clients. Today, we talk with Dale Gronhovd, the founder and CEO of Solid Rock Home Innovations, LLC. here in St. Cloud. Dale is a passionate small-business owner with years of experience, and we’re honored to be able to share his story. Here’s Dale:

How long have you been in business?

I started in November 2013 - so about 5 months.

Why did you first get into business for yourself?

I have a degree in Carpentry and have worked in the construction field for the past 20 years. I absolutely love working with homeowners to help them enjoy their home. I had always dreamed of owning my own business, and have done projects for family and friends for years. Even though there are plenty of remodeling/repair technicians in the community, I saw a gap in customer service and expertise - and knew I could fill that gap. My fiance was very supportive, so when I needed to make a job change just a few weeks before our wedding, we decided it was a great time to start the business. Solid Rock Home Innovations specializes in remodeling, repair and DIY consulting.

What is the most rewarding part of owning your own company?

It is so rewarding to talk to a home owner or business owner who has a challenge with their home or office and be able to offer a solution they didn't realize was possible. Because of my years of experience, I'm often able to find a more cost-effective solution than they had imagined. Knowing my work is helping people enjoy their home gives me tremendous satisfaction.I also know that the buck stops with me and I can perform each job to my own high standards. I truly enjoy each day and come home at night with peace knowing I gave my clients my all.

At what point in your business journey did you start using Safe Shield? How has using them helped you? What feature has helped you the most.

I could have started my business under the radar and waited awhile before getting set up legally; in fact, there were people who suggested I just take cash jobs for the first few months. However, as our business name suggests, we wanted to run a business with integrity and wanted to start by doing things right; I just had no idea where to get started. My wife, Tara, had worked with Kent in the past and had respect for Safe Shield. Meeting with Kent was one of the very first things I did in getting started and he brought tremendous value! He helped me understand my options for setting up my business and advised me on a number of business issues I had questions about. Not only did SafeShield help us set up our LLC, but taking Kent's advice brought incredible peace of mind as I started my business. What could have been a very stressful process, was exciting and motivating!

How do you see your future?

Solid Rock Home Innovations is growing at a steady pace and once I obtain my contractor's license this summer, the opportunities will be endless. I'm excited to grow Solid Rock Home Innovations into a respected brand in our community as we continue to delight our clients. In addition to providing for my family, we pray Solid Rock will grow so that we can also give back to our community.

What makes Solid Rock unique is the ability to find creative, cost effective solutions combined with carpentry expertise (high end attention to detail) and a sincere heart for our clients. This combination of skills and values aren't found in many businesses nor are they being taught, so one day I hope to take on apprentices to teach and mentor the next generation.

Safe Shield Client: Cohlab

Cohlab, founded a year and 4 months ago by Heather Robbins and Cliff Robbins, is one of Safe Shield’s newest clients. Cohlab helps small businesses create a collaborative web and mobile strategy that is both understandable and affordable. Heather and Cliff got the idea after they learned about the struggles their aunt and uncle were having maintaining and understanding the technology surrounding their business’ website. After discovering that many other business owners were experiencing the same frustrations, Heather and Cliff decided to open Cohlab- a company small business owners can turn to for help in growing their business’ online visibility.

While the partnership between Cohlab and Safe Shield is new, Heather and Cliff compliant. So far Kent and the Safe Shield team have helped Cohlab get their documentation and certification in order. “Working with Safe Shield not only gives us one less thing to worry about it also

know what a value it is to their business, “We started with Safe Shield just a month ago; which is a year too late. We wish we would have met Kent when we were first starting to plan the business.” Heather and Cliff are realizing how much they didn’t know about what needs to happen in order for their business to stay provides us with a trusted advisor.”

Knowing that Cohlab’s compliance needs are taken care of, Heather and Cliff are focusing on growing their business. Within the next couple of months they plan to move out of their home office into an office building in downtown St. Cloud. All the while knowing that Kent and the rest of the team from Safe Shield will take care of their business affairs to keep them safe and compliant.

Client Profile: DAYTA Marketing

Safe Shield is in business to protect you and help your business succeed. Which is why it is wonderful to see a client like DAYTA Marketing prosper while enjoying peace of mind. Headquartered in St. Cloud, MN, DAYTA Marketing is a marketing firm specializing in social media. The company was created when CEO and founder Luke Riordan teamed up with his uncle and now business partner John Riordan during Luke’s final semester at St. Johns University. “I decided there was no better time for me to start a business coming straight out of college. I had an awesome mentor and business partner, the market was ready and was in need of social media marketing services”, said Luke Riordan. On February 1st 2012 DAYTA Marketing was born.

In the 2 years DAYTA Marketing has been open, they have gained over 100 clients and opened a second location in Minneapolis, MN. All of DAYTA Marketing’s success has made Luke realize that as the CEO his time is valuable. It is one of the reasons in December of 2013 he called Safe Shield. It has only been 2 months since Safe Shield started working with DAYTA Marketing and Luke can already feel the difference, “Safe Shield takes a lot of pressure off my shoulders. They are proactive and provide invaluable advice when dealing with corporate compliance and formalities. We should have started using them sooner.” With the new office in Minneapolis, both Luke and John and have spent a lot of time traveling. Fortunately, they never have to remember to pack any of their business documents; they can securely access their corporate record book and other important documents via the Internet from anywhere thanks to Safe Shield’s cloud-based Online Record Management System. 

For Luke, watching the company and the team of employees grow is the most rewarding part of his job. Of course a larger company means more responsibility, “Our company will become more complex and having Safe Shield help guide our company in the right direction is very important. Safe Shield's affordable compliance services ensure our company is compliant with both state and federal laws.”

Safe Shield is very excited to see what the future has in store for DAYTA Marketing. Good Luck – and enjoy peace of mind knowing that we’ve got your back.

The Desire to be an Entrepreneur

Behind every business is an entrepreneur; somebody who decided they wanted to venture out and build their own company. Starting your own business is a time consuming process that includes strategic planning and most importantly creating the foundation and structure of a business entity that will protect you. So why do people choose to start their own business?

There are many interesting facts and statistics that explain why people choose to start their own business and the desire to become an entrepreneur is on the rise. According to a survey conducted by Rassumssen University, 71% of Millennials would prefer to work for themselves and 60% of them say they likely will do so within two years. For many, freedom plays a big part in entrepreneurship and more college graduates are choosing to forgo nontraditional employment paths.

Freedom for future entrepreneurs means the power to control their working conditions. They want to be able to work wherever and whenever they like, work on projects they find interesting and travel while working. Its notions like working while traveling that illustrate the point entrepreneurship is not a title or a job description, it is a way of life and it requires desire.

Are you ready to embody the entrepreneurial lifestyle? Click HERE to check out the entity formation section of Safe Shield’s website. “Chase the vision, not the money, the money will end up following you.” —Tony Hsieh, Zappos CEO.

How Safe Shield Started

How Safe Shield Started

With 12 years in operations management, Kent Gustafson was looking to start his own business. The idea for opening a company like Safe Shield started when Gustafson learned that the majority of businesses do not meet basic corporate compliance requirements. He felt compelled to help protect the “little guys”, which resulted in the founding of Safe Shield. The first goal of Safe Shield was to help small businesses already in existence, protect themselves. Shortly after, entity formations services were added. Gustafson wanted to offer resources and support to start-up business owners to ensure they got their business started off on the right foot.

Making sure that businesses start off on the right foot is even more crucial since according to Entrepreneur.com, entrepreneurship is growing at an exponential rate. “ ‘Young people all over the world are looking at the startup career path as a way out of the gloomy years their parents have brought upon them since the financial crisis started’ ”, stated Torsten Kolind, the CEO of YouNoodle

It’s been nearly 7 years since Safe Shield first opened. When asked why he keeps coming back to work Gustafson said, “I love helping people. Clients come to us with excitement about pursuing their new business venture, but have many questions and often times don’t know where to start. I love answering their questions, giving them clear direction, and handling all of the details that they don’t know how to, or simply don’t want to, deal with… We want our clients and future clients to know, unequivocally, that we are 100% focused on looking out for their best interests.”

In order to help even more businesses, Safe Shield has started communicating on social media. Keep an eye out for free tips on starting your business and advice on growing your already existing small business on our Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn pages