Cakes are one of the most popular desserts for family meals as well as for special occasions. Most people feel that birthday candles work much better on a cake than a pie, and you won’t find many brides ordering a wedding cookie for the big day. However, many cakes are purchased for more routine events, such as improved grades, the first day of vacation, or just because it’s finally Friday.
Cake making can offer a home income opportunity that requires a low initial cash outlay, flexible hours, and the chance to work at something you enjoy. You should naturally consult your local health department and zoning commission for any inspections or permits needed. However, in most locations, as long as your food handling, storage, and preparation methods are up to code, the health inspection should be easily passed. Zoning ordinances can be a potential problem in certain cities unless traffic is limited to meeting with clients or allowing them to pick up their goods.
If you need to improve or enhance your skills, you may want to take some cake decorating classes. Remember, bakers master their skills by combining the right tools with practice, and classes give you the opportunity to experience both. If there are no courses offered near your home, you can find videos on the Internet that demonstrate techniques. You can also purchase books that walk you through, in words and pictures, the creation of the various decorations.
In addition to a supply of raw ingredients, you will need to purchase certain equipment. Cake pans in various sizes and shapes, a durable mixer, large mixing bowls, and frosting bags with tips should be high on your list. You probably will need a supply of basic boxes, doilies, and cardboard liners. If you plan to provide specialty cakes, you may want to purchase some popular novelty pans and support columns for wedding cakes.
Whether you plan to start a business to make money online or plan to restrict sales to customers referred by your friends and family, you need photographs of your work. These need to be full color shots of your actual work, taken to show it in its most attractive setting. You may opt for a professional photographer or snap them yourself.
If you choose to handle your own cost accounting, be sure to fix a standard cost for each cake you plan to sell. Factor in all aspects, such as the cost of ingredients, raw ingredients, energy consumption, and your time. Make sure that your prices then reflect enough profit that you will have funds for upgrading or replacing equipment as needed.
Payment terms should be clearly stated, ideally on your website and order form. You will probably want to receive payment in advance (or at least a substantial deposit) for items such as wedding cakes. A simple quarter-sheet chocolate cake, on the other hand, may be one you would charge for on delivery. Base your decision on how much time and money you must invest as well as factors such as your relationship with the customer. Decide whether you will accept personal checks, out-of-town checks, and credit cards before you open your business.
