I own a successful retail gourmet store that has been in business since 1979 in St Louis. Let me know if you have specific questions and I will try to answer them.
A few quick pieces of advice:
1) As previously mentioned do your market research.
2) Make sure you have adequate finances .
3) Keep your cost low, don't sign too expensive a lease .
4) Start at a comfortable size and THEN expand.
5) Get the right computer system that works for your business.
6) IF you have a partner work out your "arrangement" in writing in advance.
7) Plan all finances on a "worst case" scenario.

Do something you find interesting and exciting.
9) Try to be creative yet do something that has worked elsewhere.
10) Be prepared to work like a sled dog in Alaska during the busy season.
11) GO FOR IT!!!
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