How to Start Your Own Baking Business

Starting your own baking business isn't all that hard. However, there are many legalities involved, as with any business. The most important thing to know when starting to sell your baked goods, is how well you bake! Make sure your baked goods are tasty enough and appreciated by many before attempting to sell. If you can't get your children to eat your cookies, chances are customers won't buy them either.

Instructions

1. Write a business plan. Include how you expect to market your baking business, who you will sell to and where you plan to sell your baked goods. It is very important to know ahead of time how you plan to make your business successful.

2. Contact your local health department and schedule a home inspection. This is required by most states in order to sell baked goods cooked in your home.

3. Apply for a sales tax certificate from your state tax department. Most states require you to collect sales tax on all goods sold, sometimes including food.

4. Purchase any and all needed equipment, such as cake pans, cookie sheets, decorating supplies and utensils. Be sure you have all the proper equipment for what you plan to offer prior to selling your baked goods. You may also need bakery boxes and other wrapping materials, such as wax paper, foil and plastic wrap for sending your baked goods home with customers.

5. Prepare proper business stationery. You will especially need business cards to promote your new business. Consider adding photos of baked goods you have made to your business cards and or stationery.

6. Consider starting a website for your baking business. Show several photographs of your baked goods on the website to entice customers. List the baked goods you have available for sale and include price lists. Be sure to add your website address to all business cards and stationery.

7. Advertise your new baking business. Tell family and friends first, word of mouth is a powerful sales tool. Place ads in your local newspapers. Hang flyers at local grocery stores and other places of business. Get permission from managers before hanging your signs.

8. Sign up to sell your baked goods at local craft shows or flea markets. Search the newspaper for shows in your local area.