Split the first year into three phases: building the basics (a simple identity, a site or page, accounts, and measurement), testing channels on a limited budget, then scaling what's proven to work. Don't spend most of the budget in month one before you know what works.
Foundation
A basic visual identity that can grow.
A website or landing page with correct measurement.
Google Business Profile and core accounts.
Testing
Try one or two channels with enough budget to collect data, calculate the real cost per customer, and keep a record of what you tried.
Scaling
Grow what works gradually, add channels once the first ones are stable, and invest in content and SEO as a long-term asset.
What drains the budget
Over-designing before demand is proven.
Subscriptions to unused tools.
Spreading ads across too many platforms.
No measurement, so you don’t know what you’re paying for.
Frequently asked questions
01Should I set a fixed monthly amount?
Set a monthly cap, and let the split shift with results.
02When should I hire a marketer?
When marketing time stops you from running the business, or you need expertise you don't have.
