Business "plan"

I've just made a decision to add embroidery (primarily monogramming) to my drapery workroom business. I purchased a gently used Babylock EMP6 from a dealer because I believe it will serve my needs. My business is primarily to the design trade and so far I have one designer thrilled and sending me work already, and others very interested. I think this will be profitable and a good way to ease into the embroidery world. Who knows what I'll end up doing down the road, but for now this is the path I'm taking.

I'd like some help with suggestions for monogramming as well as advice on whether to purchase digitizing software or to outsource any digitizing needs - at least until I determine whether I have a need. I've opted for the latter for now. There are so many programs and such a variabily in pricing that I'm simply overwhelmed. I know there are people who do this, just don't know who, how or how much.

I also have a Brother 8500. I've had this machine for about 9 years, never used professionally. Since I can't sell it for anything, I plan on keeping it. Heck, it's another "head"!

I purchased Monogram Wizard Plus on the advice of a colleague who also has the 8500. I decided this was a good choice since I could stitch monograms on both machines. The first design I attempted on the EMP 6 turned out to be problemmatic because of the large size and transition from very wide areas to narrower ones and vice versa. I'm working with the company to try to solve this, but wonder if it was a wise purchase and if I should have looked at other options.

The next bit of advice I'd like is some feedback on is where to purchase stabilizers, needles, thread and bobbins. For the 8500, I just waited for Sulky products to go on sale at Joann. Now I need to grow up. Does anyone use any sticky stabilizers on the professional machines?

Thanks for your help. I'm going to be reading old posts and maybe someday I'll even be able to offer some advice!

Suzanne Mink