Customer data bank - any ideas on the best way to start?

I am in the process of starting a small business and I am asking for suggestions on how to set up my customer data bank. I am planning on using Quick Books for bookkeeping purposes, if that is relavant info. Any (software) suggestions? I would also like to use this software for newsletters (web oriented = email adresses). I cant imagine that an Excel spread sheet will be a good long-term solution. Tips?