I'm working on staring a small business with a long time friend of mine, we are planing on re-opening an old comics and collectables shop in our hometown, the plus is we already have a good size client base the negative is we have no earthly idea what we are doing or even how to get the business of the ground, we know it will be a sucsess we just aren't sure how to get it there. Thank you for any input on this topic. Oh and would it be wise to change the name or keep the exsiting one that everyone already knows?

I would suggest contacting score.org and sba.gov. Both sites have excellent resources for the small business operator in how to setup a small business. SCORE especially, can help you develop a business plan and checklist.

As for keeping the name, brand recognition can be an important asset for a business. If you are purchasing the shop from the previous owner, make sure you have the right to use the name. If you are leasing the shop from the landlord, not the previous owner, you may not have that right.

Get in contact with other organizations such as business link,go on some net working days to help you look closely on business,talk to other people that you know that have their own business,try to sell it to them and ask for their feedback,make sure that you both have a good contract so you know your rolls, you don't want to be stepping on each others toes,