Well, I think I finally came up with a name that I like that has significance for me in a few ways. Whenever I searched the name on yahoo, I found out that someone has something similar. I want my name to include Virtual Services and theirs includes Virtual Assistance but the same first word. Would this be ok or should I run in the other direction?

Maybe check to see how far away the other business is. What is the name you're thinking of? ____ Virtual Services or Virtual Services _____ ? If the former, I would guess the conflict would be less.
Are you checking with domain registration sites to make sure your name ideas aren't already taken as domain names?

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Mary H. Ruth/Virtual Writing & Communications
http://www.writingVA.com

Hi Mary,
I've checked with the state filings and the name is still available in my state. (They are several states away from me.) Also, they have used a more abbreviated name as their domain name, and I was planning to spell it out more. But both of the names would have the same first and second words, so I'm afraid it might be a problem when someone just searched for the name. I've got a few other ideas in mind, so I'm just hoping I can find something that conveys the right message. It seems like everything is already taken or there is something very similar.

Well, I suggest that you find a name you'll be comfortable with for a long time, and as long as it's not exactly repeated by a nearby business, you'll do fine. The important thing is to really like your choice, so trust your gut!

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Mary H. Ruth/Virtual Writing & Communications
http://www.writingVA.com

Easier said than done. Lol! I keep going back and forth and changing my mind. There are so many things I like, and I just don't know which one is the "perfect" one for me.

You also need to check to make sure there are no Trademarks pending on that name you're thinking of. There's nothing worse than deciding on a name, setting up a website, getting a logo done, printing stationery, business cards, etc and then receive a letter to say you're infringing on someone's trademark. So important you check that too. Such a lot to remember and do, isn't there?

Have any of you ever thought that coming up with a name is the hardest part? Lol!

I think I would like a name with Virtual as the first word. Everything I think of is already taken though.

I understand completely! I battled with myself for at least 2 weeks trying to come up with a name I liked.

Did you check the thesaurus to see if there is another word that means the same as the word(s) you are considering, to see if you can come up with something else that is similar and isn't already taken?

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Darlene Victoria Gonzalez
The Voice & Vision Behind Your Business

I've been thinking about names for about a month now. Of course, it's not like it is the only thing I've been doing, but you would think I would have decided on something by now.

I've been checking out the thesaurus, but it seems like everything is taken. And a lot of them are domain names that aren't even being used!

One thing to remember is when you are starting out you want a name that will stick with the client or potential client. How do they associate with you?

When I first started (8 years ago) I had a really catchy name - still own the domain to it, but people would never remember my business name, just my name, so I bought my domain name and then changed it to reflect ME. This is how people who refer you will know your name, so don't make it complicated. You want catchy, creative, but easy to remember. Mine is nothing like this but it sticks with everyone. And, That is a GOOD THING!