Have you started your own blog? A blog is a good way to start building your name. Also you should start subscribing to various blogs/forums and make sure you become a regular poster in these venues. In the beginning I'd commit to 1-2 hours per day marketing via the web, I know it sounds like a lot but until people know who you are it's always an uphill battle. Considering inventory, in the future I wouldn't buy so much apparel and purchase on an as needed basis. That way you can reduce your overhead amount significantly and not get 'stuck' with non-selling goods.
Next, I'm not sure, you could already be doing this, make your gigs pay for themselves, i.e. see if you can get someone or an entity to sponsor your event. That way you don't have to 'go in the hole' everytime you try to promote your bands. If you start by having the event paid for, at least a portion of it, you can't loose and it will only benefit you in the end.
Next, I'm not sure, you could already be doing this, make your gigs pay for themselves, i.e. see if you can get someone or an entity to sponsor your event. That way you don't have to 'go in the hole' everytime you try to promote your bands. If you start by having the event paid for, at least a portion of it, you can't loose and it will only benefit you in the end.