I have finally decided to take the plunge and go for my home lic after the first of the year. Im excited and scared to death all at the same time. I have had offers frim resturants and B&B's for my baked goods and can only provide to them if i have a lic.

I would love it if anyone could offer any advice for me on doing this...on anything from where to get supplies in large amounts to book keeping to what will go on with the accual inspection.

i have only been doing my cakes and cookies since aug so im pretty new to this and i can honestly use all the help that i can on this.

I know that laws can differ from state to state so in not asking about that im asking about the everyday ins and outs of doing this and doing it right because I plan to run this business from my home just as i would if i had a bake shop since that is my long term goal is to one day have an accual shop.

so anything that anyone has to offer would be great!!!

Thanks

Tiff


and btw..

does "Turtle Treats" sound silly to yall? Honestly ..please

Good Luck on your new venture. Turtle treats, while cute, doesn't say much about your business. "turtle" brings to my mind caramel or pets. However, that is only one person's opinion-feel free to ignore me.

As for inspection, what ever entity does the licensing for your area will have the most help to offer. they will tell you exactly what you need. IF they license home bakers, generally, they will want separate storage, separate refrigeration, single use towels for hand drying, a dish rack (you cannot hand-dry dishes). They may also require NO pets.

Call them, they will be very helpful. They are in the business of licensing, not preventing licenses.

As for record keeping, as long as you have a home based business, keep all your receipts. Take a look at the IRS Schedule C, for a way to keep track of the deductible expenses. Those categories will help you set up a simple set of books. Don't over think this. Until you have a lot of business, keep it simple!

Thanks JoAnn!! i hadnt thought about seperate storage...good thing we were planning on enlarging the kitchen anyways...