Hi guys! I am new to the forums and in research/startup phases of my VA business.

I found a name I think I'd like to use (oy, my brain hurts! haha).. it is Watermark Virtual Office Solutions.

When doing an internet search, I found a company called Watermark eSuites that offers "virtual offices". The difference here is they offer actual brick-and-mortar office suites for hourly/day use. My services are obviously different, but would my using "Watermark" and "Virtual" together constitute trademark infringement?

Thanks for your advice on this!

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--Leigh

Thinking about this further.. what if I changed it to Watermark Business Solutions with a tagline of "On demand assistance for all of your administrative needs"

Maybe taking the words "virtual" and "office" out all together will work? Thoughts? Thanks again

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--Leigh

If you plan to work primarily virtually, I like Watermark Virtual Solutions, personally. What is the availability of web domains? That may affect your decision...

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Lily Chambers, The Virtual Office Goddess, LLC
Author "How to Do Your Own Small Business Bookkeeping"

Hi Leigh,

There are few things you can do here.

1.) You can possibly keep the original name you selected.
2.) If it is available, in your area (business License | Check your regulations) or if you need to advertise it.
3.) If it is available through the US Patent and Trademark website.
4.) If it is available as a website, if you want to shorten it, you could go with www.wvos.com, if it is available.

Good luck,
Andrea~

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Action Jackson Virtual Assistant|

I also like Watermark Virtual Solutions! What a great idea Lily. I decided on my name quicky and am rather stuck with it for now, but as I am focusing on small businesses and Realtors I'd like to change it in the future. One thing I learned is don't rush choosing your name.

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Serita Diana, the List 2 Close Assistant
REVA Academy

Leigh

I like Watermark Virtual Office Solutions. Something to keep in mind - if someone only remembers Watermark and google's you - Watermark esuites will come up first!

Carol

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CJ's Virtual Business Solutions
www.cjvbs.com

Watermark esuites is not a trademarked name. Also, the term "watermark" is so common that one would have a hard time arguing there is confusion caused when the term is so common already. It's like using the name "cheese" for your business and then trying to sue all those others that use cheese also. Really concerned? Ask a trademark attorney.

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Trish Hallmark
www.thvaonline.com

Haha, I almost like the name Cheese! It would stick out!

On a more serious note, thank you so much for weighing in. I have chosen to go with my name followed by "Virtual Office Solutions". Not really unique or original, but I suredly will have no problems with trademark infringement! Plus, I sort of like my name being in the title, since it is me that I'm trying to sell anyway! lol

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--Leigh