Totally off TTC subject. . .

[slparker]

While I am in limbo waiting to finish my clomid I have to occupy my time somehow! LOL

I have been tossing around the idea of making cakes as a side business. I already have 3 cakes that I am doing for some friends and right now I am just charging them the cost of the ingredients to actually make the cake.

Anyway, I am a little overwhelmed. .I really want to do this cause I enjoy it and feel like it would be some good side money and if we EVER get pregnant then it would be something to fill the gap while on maternity leave. But it costs so much to start it up and then i get flooded with doubt that it won't be worth it. First I have to find a kitchen to actually bake in, then I have to pay $365/year for my permit, plus build up all the supplies to make the cakes etc.

Not sure what I'm looking for here. . LOL. . .maybe I just needed to bounce the ideas off of you girls. Anyone have any experience or input on this subject?? Do you think it's worth it? And if we DID do this. .all of those expenses would have to go on our credit card (which we try to avoid).

I was just so excited to finally find something I LOVE doing and a way to make money and now my bubble has burst. . haha!

[MaerynPearl]

Just the suggestion of when buying the ingredients, look into Sysco. They do quality products in bulk for cheap (3 out of the 3 bakeries I have worked in buy through Sysco).

http://www.sysco.com/

[BarefootGirl]

I have also thought about doing cakes! I have done some birthday cakes for friends at work and also did a 3-tier stacked cake for my sister's Bday. I had been getting Wilton supplies (pans, decorating tools, etc) at Hobby Lobby, but then found out they had a small selection at walmart and have been able to save some money.

I don't know much about the business side, I've just looked into it a little. The commercial kitchen and permit is the big barrier. Is there a church or community center with an inspected kitchen that would let you rent time or trade for service? That might be something to look into. Or maybe there are small mom and pop restaurants that might let you rent space and time after-hours?

[Mosaic]

Moving to WAHMWell because I bet you'll get lots of great advice there from knowledgeable mamas!!

[LZP]

You might also be able to find used equipment (industrial mixer, etc) online at some refurb places. You could even possibly find pans in different sizes too. the commercial pans would hold up better, I bet.

Try posting in the WAHM forum, and/or in a food forum (i know there's one but dont know the name.)... they might have some great ideas to share!

The Women's Business Association in your area might offer a grant for start up costs, since your primary costs right away would be the permit, and the pans/hard goods.

Could you charge a slight upcharge to the current or newer customers that you get as referrals from these upcoming jobs? like $10 to $20? that you could start socking away for the permit if you find a place to bake.

Barefoot's idea about a community ctr or church kitchen is a great one! maybe even a local private school or something? can't hurt to at least ask.


Good luck passing the time- what a great idea!