What to do now?

[max928]

A couple months ago, I was looking to start a clothing business. I had searched that name I wanted to use, and the domain name was also available. Since then, I have creating designs with that name and other elements. This week I search the internet again with the name I chose, and someone has already done exactly what I wanted. Their clothing website has the same domain name I wanted, same business name, and same target audience. I realize now what I should have done is bought that domain name and/or trademarked the name I wanted to use. I just didn't want to spend a lot money without having solid designs and a plan. So what should I do now? The other business is very new and only has one product for sale. They also have yet to trademark the name. If I were to continue with plans they might have the upper hand because they used the name is retail first. Or I could just throw out all these I ideas I thought were great and start brainstorming a new name.

[fthom]

Hey Max,

How annoying! You're best bet is to start brainstorming new names.... or perhaps thinking about ways you can still use that name before but perhaps tweak it a bit. So say it was called "Funky T-Shirts" before... you could call it "The Funky Tshirt Co" and register a .co domain instead of a .com domain.

Hope that's of some help!

[DeniseTaylor]

Hi

Now just because someone has the same idea as you doesn't mean you can't pursue it. You just have to find a different twist. You cannot copy another site, so you must be unique.

If you can't find a twist on your idea, then move along to something else.

By the way, are you researching keywords for this project? You need to do keyword research to ensure there is adequate demand for your topic and make sure it's not overloaded with competitors. Otherwise, your business will be much harder to grow, if not fail.

[DigitalPalette]

Unfortunately things like this happen. Please do not keep the same name and go with a .co like someone has mentioned. This will lead to a marketing battle and is not good for starting out a new business.

Sadly, if you can't afford $10 to register a domain you may not make it in the clothing industry. I have tried with small capital ($1000 before) and it didnt work out too great. Not saying you cant, but you might want to think about it.

[nickhumph]

Take this as a lesson and move on. If you have to change your name then do it now. Your just going to waste your time and more money in the long-term.

[max928]

Thanks for the help. I have started to brainstorm new names. I will register a domain name when I find a name that should do well.

[kbud124]

This week I search the internet again with the name I chose, and someone has already done exactly what I wanted.

you can get a domain name for <$8 try googling "instant domain search", you could probably even find a better name.