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MY Services

Helping Small Businesses Grow 


Running a small business is exciting — but it can also feel like a lot to juggle. I’m here to make things easier. From setting up websites and online shops to improving marketing, customer engagement, or even trade show support, I help take tasks off your plate so you can focus on what you do best.

 

My goal is simple: practical solutions that actually fit your business, not a one-size-fits-all approach.

In the end, I’m your cheer captain — always rooting for you. Let’s make it happen together.

Online Store Build-Outs on the Right Platform

From setup to sales — your online shop, built to shine and ready to grow.

Getting your products online shouldn’t feel overwhelming. Whether it’s Shopify, Squarespace, Etsy, or Google Shop, I help you build a store that’s not just “pretty,” but actually works. I’ve been in the weeds of product listings, payments, shipping, fraud prevention, and mobile design — and I know the small decisions that make a huge difference.

We’ll work side by side to create a site that fits your brand, your budget, and your customers. I’ll set up product categories, connect your payment systems, configure shipping (domestic and international, with fraud protection in mind), and make sure your store runs smoothly.

 

Most importantly, I’ll teach you how to update and manage it yourself, so you’re not stuck depending on a consultant every time you want to add a product.

With my background in graphic design, I’ll also make sure your store looks professional and engaging. Clean design + strong systems = a shop you’ll be proud to send customers to.

Customer Growth & Marketing Support

Simple, smart strategies to find new buyers and keep the old ones coming back.

The hardest part of running a small business isn’t always the product — it’s getting people to notice it. That’s where I come in.

I’ll work with you to create marketing that actually fits your life and your business. This could be running social media campaigns, building an email newsletter, setting up Google or Nextdoor ads, or creating seasonal promotions that tie into what your customers really care about. We’ll look at what’s already working (or not working) and build a plan that’s doable and doesn’t drain you.

I know small businesses don’t have corporate marketing budgets. That’s why I focus on practical, affordable strategies that give you the most return. We’ll also use smart tech where it helps — like AI tools to brainstorm content or automate simple tasks — but always with your voice front and center.

Marketing isn’t just about shouting louder; it’s about connecting with your people. Let’s find your customers, talk to them in the right way, and give them a reason to come back.

Business Coaching & Operations

Practical advice, systems, and momentum to keep your business moving.


Running a small business can feel like you’re juggling a thousand things at once. That’s why I offer ongoing coaching and operational support — to help you stay on track, keep momentum, and make smarter decisions.

 

This could look like:

  • Weekly or monthly check-ins to keep you accountable.

  • Pricing and margin reviews so you actually make money.

  • Workflow systems that save time (sometimes with AI tools where it makes sense).

  • Vendor and partnership guidance.

  • Seasonal strategy planning — making sure you’re ready before the busy season hits.

 

I’m not here to give you a one-time plan and walk away. I’m here to work alongside you, checking in, adjusting, and pushing forward until you feel confident.

Sometimes what you need most isn’t another checklist — it’s someone in your corner saying, “Let’s figure this out together.” That’s what this service is all about.

Marketplace & Product Listing Support

Better photos, better words, better sales — listings that work.

Selling online is more than uploading a product. Your photos, descriptions, and layouts are the “salespeople” of your online shop. I help you make those listings shine.

I’ll show you how to shoot or style your products so they look consistent and professional. I’ll help edit or crop photos so they feel fresh and scroll-stopping. We’ll fine-tune descriptions, add sizing charts, and write SEO-friendly copy that makes your products easier to find.

For platforms like Etsy, this is a game-changer. Many shops struggle to stand out because their listings are incomplete or messy. Together, we’ll clean it up and create a flow that feels effortless to the customer. And yes, I’ll make sure you know how to keep it up on your own, so you can keep selling without stress.

This isn’t about making things “perfect” — it’s about making them effective. Small tweaks in your listings can mean big results.

Trade Show Partner and Emotional Support

Booth setup, long days, real sales — yes, I’ll be there with you.
 

Trade shows are exhausting. I know, because I’ve been there — up early, hauling boxes, setting up displays, grinding through 12-hour days, and still finding the energy to connect with customers.

 

That’s where I’m different from most consultants: I don’t just tell you how to do it, I come and do it with you.

I’ll help design your booth layout so it’s attractive and functional. I’ll work with you on displays, signage, and merchandising so your products stand out. During the show, I’ll help engage with customers, collect emails, process payments (I’ll set up your Square terminal if you don’t already have one), and even track special orders.

 

Between sales, we’ll test display arrangements, move things around to keep it fresh, and talk strategy for future shows. I’ll also help you think about partnerships and collaborations — and what red flags to avoid when opportunities come up.

Trade shows can be overwhelming, but they can also be huge for business. With me by your side, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Social Media Campaigns Strategy Support

​Connect, engage, and grow — social media that actually moves the needle.

Social media isn’t just a place to post pretty pictures — it’s where your customers live, browse, and make buying decisions. Done right, it can be a powerful tool to build your brand, attract new buyers, and keep existing customers coming back. Done wrong, it’s hours of work with little to show.

 

That’s where I come in.

I work with you to create social media campaigns that are strategic, authentic, and practical. From Instagram and Facebook to TikTok and other relevant platforms, I help you craft posts, plan stories and reels, run targeted ads, and engage with your audience in ways that feel natural and true to your brand. Every post, photo, caption, and hashtag is thoughtfully designed to highlight your products, your personality, and your business story.

I’ll guide you through best practices for content creation, scheduling, and audience interaction, while also sharing the tools and tips to save time and stay organized. If you want, I can jump in directly, help you post, respond, or run campaigns alongside you — just like I do at trade shows or during product launches.

We’ll track engagement, adjust strategies, and experiment with different formats so your social media is not just “present” but productive. The focus is always on results: turning followers into buyers, building loyalty, and making your business visible without burning you out.

 

This is a service designed for small businesses that want to stand out online without losing their soul. I combine hands-on experience, design expertise, and tech-savvy methods (including smart AI tools where helpful) to create campaigns that actually work. No fluff, no generic templates — just real, actionable social media strategies that help your business grow.

What MY Clients Say

Japanese Traditional Kimono

NAObyNaoko.com

"Aki has helped turn my vision into reality—guiding me through things I couldn’t do or even think of myself. She built my website, added the details I was hoping for, and shaped it into something I’m truly happy with. She has been my biggest cheerleader from the very beginning, and I truly rely on her. Her advice is always positive and spot-on, yet she never makes me feel pressured. It’s the perfect balance, and I’m so grateful for that."

Contact

    Every business has its own unique story, and I’d be happy to learn about yours. Let’s connect and talk about how I can support you in reaching your goals.

    © 2025 by Aki Sakata Business Consulting. All rights reserved.

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