We have been narrowing down places to live, and are looking at these two states. From the information gathered, these do allow home bakeries, correct? Cakes/bakery would not be the career choice for either of us, but I would like it as a side business.

What are these areas like for cakes? Is the market saturated?

What prices fly there? Is $2/serving high or low?

Is fondant in use now? Or strictly buttercream?

Are there decent supply stores, or do you rely on the internet?

What are the "now" design trends you ae seeing?

Anything else I should know?

I live in NC, I would not say it was saturated here. I do anywhere from 2-6 cakes per week. There are a few bakeries here but not that many. I do fondant and buttercream. It just depends. My fondant business is picking up because they seem to like the MMF. I don't think you would have a problem in NC. Just sort of depends where.Any other questions?? Oh yeah, $2.00 a serving and up here.That's what I charge just for basic BC and minimal decorating.

From what I understand you can have a home bakery in North Carolina. If you don't advertise you don't even need an inspection depending on what area you live in.If you do advertise you have to go through the Dept of Agriculture. There are a few different threads about it on this site. Good luck!

How hard is the inspection? Do you have to have a separete kitchen, or just a clean house?

We're looking in the Jacksonville NC area mainly, he's got a bid in there near the base but wants to live 15-20 minutes away instead of right by the base. I'd prefer VA, but part of our deal is I'd follow him.

You can use your own kitchen. I just go by word of mouth so I don't have to have an inspection. You can go to: http://www.agr.state.nc.us/fooddrug/homebiz.htm
This will give you a good start and contact info.

Thanks! That's a very helpful site. Saved to Favorites!