I don't know what the 'rules' are in Arkansas. I do know someone who worked at the same bakery I used to work at moved there because there is no cottage law in Oklahoma and from what I understand the rules are very lax in Arkansas regarding home bakeries. I don't know--I may be speaking out of turn on that.

I didn't see any cake mix boxes in her photos....and wouldn't have cared if I did. The bakery I worked for charged more and they used box mixes in addition to scratch. People bought them because they were delicious, and the designs were wonderful.

That being said I have something to say that may not be considered 'nice' but is truthful. The OP's skill level is not up to the level where I think she is putting her pricing. The potential is definitely there, but the execution at this point...in my estimation... does not merit top dollar pricing. I think she needs to pull back a bit and get more experience...and perhaps some lessons or study tutorials and DVD's.

Unless she is harboring more photos that show a vast improvement in execution than what is shown here...I think her pricing needs to reflect her capabilities. I really don't want to come off as harsh or mean...but if she's having people balk at her pricing...this very well could be the reason why.

That being said I think she's got the drive and the talent to improve and get to where she needs to be and I wish her all the best!

I believe most CFLs require you to bake out of your own house, not someone else's. If someone complains and an inspector contacts you there could be some legal issues.

I would definitely look into the CFL in your state and see if it will let you bake outside your house, if not then you should stop selling immediately.

I understand the "small town" thing. I live in one too. I quote 1.50 (1 tier or sheet min. dec.) to 1.80 (2 tier w/min. dec) and 2.00 for wedding. I also charge 5.00 for smash cakes with a purchase of a reg. cake. Small cookies covered in fondant I usually get .75. I've never been asked to do detailed cookies because I don't care to do them and suggest something else . The closest store (including WM) is 30 min. away. At those prices, I have been told that I was too expensive and that was by people who are driving new Suburbans and living in 3,000 sq ft homes. Other customers tell me that I don't charge enough. There just is no middle ground.......But, I work full time and have 4 kids and am in the middle of trying open a second business. So, sometimes a "no" is just an opportunity to spend time with my family. I used to bend over and lower my prices just to please but it only stressed me out. That wasn't fair to me or my family. I would work 2 days and make 10.00 after I paid for supplies/ingredients. It's not much more now, but I'm happier! Best of luck to you.......

I understand the "small town" thing. I live in one too. I quote 1.50 (1 tier or sheet min. dec.) to 1.80 (2 tier w/min. dec) and 2.00 for wedding. I also charge 5.00 for smash cakes with a purchase of a reg. cake. Small cookies covered in fondant I usually get .75. I've never been asked to do detailed cookies because I don't care to do them and suggest something else . The closest store (including WM) is 30 min. away. At those prices, I have been told that I was too expensive and that was by people who are driving new Suburbans and living in 3,000 sq ft homes. Other customers tell me that I don't charge enough. There just is no middle ground.......But, I work full time and have 4 kids and am in the middle of trying open a second business. So, sometimes a "no" is just an opportunity to spend time with my family. I used to bend over and lower my prices just to please but it only stressed me out. That wasn't fair to me or my family. I would work 2 days and make 10.00 after I paid for supplies/ingredients. It's not much more now, but I'm happier! Best of luck to you.......

I understand the "small town" thing. I live in one too. I quote 1.50 (1 tier or sheet min. dec.) to 1.80 (2 tier w/min. dec) and 2.00 for wedding. I also charge 5.00 for smash cakes with a purchase of a reg. cake. Small cookies covered in fondant I usually get .75. I've never been asked to do detailed cookies because I don't care to do them and suggest something else . The closest store (including WM) is 30 min. away. At those prices, I have been told that I was too expensive and that was by people who are driving new Suburbans and living in 3,000 sq ft homes. Other customers tell me that I don't charge enough. There just is no middle ground.......But, I work full time and have 4 kids and am in the middle of trying open a second business. So, sometimes a "no" is just an opportunity to spend time with my family. I used to bend over and lower my prices just to please but it only stressed me out. That wasn't fair to me or my family. I would work 2 days and make 10.00 after I paid for supplies/ingredients. It's not much more now, but I'm happier! Best of luck to you.......

I understand the "small town" thing. I live in one too. I quote 1.50 (1 tier or sheet min. dec.) to 1.80 (2 tier w/min. dec) and 2.00 for wedding. I also charge 5.00 for smash cakes with a purchase of a reg. cake. Small cookies covered in fondant I usually get .75. I've never been asked to do detailed cookies because I don't care to do them and suggest something else . The closest store (including WM) is 30 min. away. At those prices, I have been told that I was too expensive and that was by people who are driving new Suburbans and living in 3,000 sq ft homes. Other customers tell me that I don't charge enough. There just is no middle ground.......But, I work full time and have 4 kids and am in the middle of trying open a second business. So, sometimes a "no" is just an opportunity to spend time with my family. I used to bend over and lower my prices just to please but it only stressed me out. That wasn't fair to me or my family. I would work 2 days and make 10.00 after I paid for supplies/ingredients. It's not much more now, but I'm happier! Best of luck to you.......

I understand the "small town" thing. I live in one too. I quote 1.50 (1 tier or sheet min. dec.) to 1.80 (2 tier w/min. dec) and 2.00 for wedding. I also charge 5.00 for smash cakes with a purchase of a reg. cake. Small cookies covered in fondant I usually get .75. I've never been asked to do detailed cookies because I don't care to do them and suggest something else . The closest store (including WM) is 30 min. away. At those prices, I have been told that I was too expensive and that was by people who are driving new Suburbans and living in 3,000 sq ft homes. Other customers tell me that I don't charge enough. There just is no middle ground.......But, I work full time and have 4 kids and am in the middle of trying open a second business. So, sometimes a "no" is just an opportunity to spend time with my family. I used to bend over and lower my prices just to please but it only stressed me out. That wasn't fair to me or my family. I would work 2 days and make 10.00 after I paid for supplies/ingredients. It's not much more now, but I'm happier! Best of luck to you.......

I understand the "small town" thing. I live in one too. I quote 1.50 (1 tier or sheet min. dec.) to 1.80 (2 tier w/min. dec) and 2.00 for wedding. I also charge 5.00 for smash cakes with a purchase of a reg. cake. Small cookies covered in fondant I usually get .75. I've never been asked to do detailed cookies because I don't care to do them and suggest something else . The closest store (including WM) is 30 min. away. At those prices, I have been told that I was too expensive and that was by people who are driving new Suburbans and living in 3,000 sq ft homes. Other customers tell me that I don't charge enough. There just is no middle ground.......But, I work full time and have 4 kids and am in the middle of trying open a second business. So, sometimes a "no" is just an opportunity to spend time with my family. I used to bend over and lower my prices just to please but it only stressed me out. That wasn't fair to me or my family. I would work 2 days and make 10.00 after I paid for supplies/ingredients. It's not much more now, but I'm happier! Best of luck to you.......

I understand the "small town" thing. I live in one too. I quote 1.50 (1 tier or sheet min. dec.) to 1.80 (2 tier w/min. dec) and 2.00 for wedding. I also charge 5.00 for smash cakes with a purchase of a reg. cake. Small cookies covered in fondant I usually get .75. I've never been asked to do detailed cookies because I don't care to do them and suggest something else . The closest store (including WM) is 30 min. away. At those prices, I have been told that I was too expensive and that was by people who are driving new Suburbans and living in 3,000 sq ft homes. Other customers tell me that I don't charge enough. There just is no middle ground.......But, I work full time and have 4 kids and am in the middle of trying open a second business. So, sometimes a "no" is just an opportunity to spend time with my family. I used to bend over and lower my prices just to please but it only stressed me out. That wasn't fair to me or my family. I would work 2 days and make 10.00 after I paid for supplies/ingredients. It's not much more now, but I'm happier! Best of luck to you.......

I understand the "small town" thing. I live in one too. I quote 1.50 (1 tier or sheet min. dec.) to 1.80 (2 tier w/min. dec) and 2.00 for wedding. I also charge 5.00 for smash cakes with a purchase of a reg. cake. Small cookies covered in fondant I usually get .75. I've never been asked to do detailed cookies because I don't care to do them and suggest something else . The closest store (including WM) is 30 min. away. At those prices, I have been told that I was too expensive and that was by people who are driving new Suburbans and living in 3,000 sq ft homes. Other customers tell me that I don't charge enough. There just is no middle ground.......But, I work full time and have 4 kids and am in the middle of trying open a second business. So, sometimes a "no" is just an opportunity to spend time with my family. I used to bend over and lower my prices just to please but it only stressed me out. That wasn't fair to me or my family. I would work 2 days and make 10.00 after I paid for supplies/ingredients. It's not much more now, but I'm happier! Best of luck to you.......

I understand the "small town" thing. I live in one too. I quote 1.50 (1 tier or sheet min. dec.) to 1.80 (2 tier w/min. dec) and 2.00 for wedding. I also charge 5.00 for smash cakes with a purchase of a reg. cake. Small cookies covered in fondant I usually get .75. I've never been asked to do detailed cookies because I don't care to do them and suggest something else . The closest store (including WM) is 30 min. away. At those prices, I have been told that I was too expensive and that was by people who are driving new Suburbans and living in 3,000 sq ft homes. Other customers tell me that I don't charge enough. There just is no middle ground.......But, I work full time and have 4 kids and am in the middle of trying open a second business. So, sometimes a "no" is just an opportunity to spend time with my family. I used to bend over and lower my prices just to please but it only stressed me out. That wasn't fair to me or my family. I would work 2 days and make 10.00 after I paid for supplies/ingredients. It's not much more now, but I'm happier! Best of luck to you.......

Yes, I am. I got that it did not post so I closed the window. Next thing I know it posted 6 times! I tried to hit the edit/delete button, but I can only edit, not delete. Sorry. I really did not post this 6 times! GGGRRRRR

Where I am at, the HD does not require an inspection for what I do, but I can only do items that do not require refrigeration AND I have to have to inform customers that I am not inspected. That way they can make an informed decision. Most people that do business with me see my kitchen when they come over to pick out a design or what not. What I get, I am reinvesting so someday I can get that separate kitchen!

Barbara you hang on and keep on keeping on. Im assuming cake decorating is your creative outlet as it is mine I remember in your other posts you said you bake at your grandmother's house . Most CFL'S refer to local HD for what is or is not allowed . Like you said you have already checked with your local HD.
I bake from scratch.I also buy mixes to bake if I want to just practice decorating Then I usually take the cake(s) to work and give them away .
Land o'Lakes butter is $5 at the Grocery $3.65 at WM or Mejeirs here. Our Walmart has Swans cake flour,egglands best eggs also Organic eggs , as well as some of the higher end chocolate .I.believe if you ask they
will order a specfic item for you . Also Alot of you talk about buying from Sams for your baking business. Uh Sams is just a warehouse style store of WM its the same company .But no one downs anyone for shopping at Sams on here.
There are some areas where WM may be the only place to shop for 30 miles or more . As for someones home kitchen not being clean enough.Sure some peoples may not be but who are.some of you to judge someone by internet? . some of
you wouldnt eat out if you knew half of what goes on in most restuarants or how dirty they are .
Everyone has to start from somewhere. I appreciate things I m learning on this
form .Im a hobbiest with a FT job for now. But I do not appreciate the dog pack mentally of criticizing on here . It seems when one person has their nose stuck in the air and makes a negative comment SOME of you enjoy jumping right in.
Also unless you live in the same area How would you know what the local health dept has said .

Barbara you hang on and keep on keeping on. Im assuming cake decorating is your creative outlet as it is mine I remember in your other posts you said you bake at your grandmother's house . Most CFL'S refer to local HD for what is or is not allowed . Like you said you have already checked with your local HD.
I bake from scratch.I also buy mixes to bake if I want to just practice decorating Then I usually take the cake(s) to work and give them away .
Land o'Lakes butter is $5 at the Grocery $3.65 at WM or Mejeirs here. Our Walmart has Swans cake flour,egglands best eggs also Organic eggs , as well as some of the higher end chocolate .I.believe if you ask they
will order a specfic item for you . Also Alot of you talk about buying from Sams for your baking business. Uh Sams is just a warehouse style store of WM its the same company .But no one downs anyone for shopping at Sams on here.
There are some areas where WM may be the only place to shop for 30 miles or more . As for someones home kitchen not being clean enough.Sure some peoples may not be but who are.some of you to judge someone by internet? . some of
you wouldnt eat out if you knew half of what goes on in most restuarants or how dirty they are .
Everyone has to start from somewhere. I appreciate things I m learning on this
form .Im a hobbiest with a FT job for now. But I do not appreciate the dog pack mentally of criticizing on here . It seems when one person has their nose stuck in the air and makes a negative comment SOME of you enjoy jumping right in.
Also unless you live in the same area How would you know what the local health dept has said .

Barbara you hang on and keep on keeping on. Im assuming cake decorating is your creative outlet as it is mine I remember in your other posts you said you bake at your grandmother's house . Most CFL'S refer to local HD for what is or is not allowed . Like you said you have already checked with your local HD.
I bake from scratch.I also buy mixes to bake if I want to just practice decorating Then I usually take the cake(s) to work and give them away .
Land o'Lakes butter is $5 at the Grocery $3.65 at WM or Mejeirs here. Our Walmart has Swans cake flour,egglands best eggs also Organic eggs , as well as some of the higher end chocolate .I.believe if you ask they
will order a specfic item for you . Also Alot of you talk about buying from Sams for your baking business. Uh Sams is just a warehouse style store of WM its the same company .But no one downs anyone for shopping at Sams on here.
There are some areas where WM may be the only place to shop for 30 miles or more . As for someones home kitchen not being clean enough.Sure some peoples may not be but who are.some of you to judge someone by internet? . some of
you wouldnt eat out if you knew half of what goes on in most restuarants or how dirty they are .
Everyone has to start from somewhere. I appreciate things I m learning on this
form .Im a hobbiest with a FT job for now. But I do not appreciate the dog pack mentally of criticizing on here . It seems when one person has their nose stuck in the air and makes a negative comment SOME of you enjoy jumping right in.
Also unless you live in the same area How would you know what the local health dept has said .

Barbara you hang on and keep on keeping on. Im assuming cake decorating is your creative outlet as it is mine I remember in your other posts you said you bake at your grandmother's house . Most CFL'S refer to local HD for what is or is not allowed . Like you said you have already checked with your local HD.
I bake from scratch.I also buy mixes to bake if I want to just practice decorating Then I usually take the cake(s) to work and give them away .
Land o'Lakes butter is $5 at the Grocery $3.65 at WM or Mejeirs here. Our Walmart has Swans cake flour,egglands best eggs also Organic eggs , as well as some of the higher end chocolate .I.believe if you ask they
will order a specfic item for you . Also Alot of you talk about buying from Sams for your baking business. Uh Sams is just a warehouse style store of WM its the same company .But no one downs anyone for shopping at Sams on here.
There are some areas where WM may be the only place to shop for 30 miles or more . As for someones home kitchen not being clean enough.Sure some peoples may not be but who are.some of you to judge someone by internet? . some of
you wouldnt eat out if you knew half of what goes on in most restuarants or how dirty they are .
Everyone has to start from somewhere. I appreciate things I m learning on this
form .Im a hobbiest with a FT job for now. But I do not appreciate the dog pack mentally of criticizing on here . It seems when one person has their nose stuck in the air and makes a negative comment SOME of you enjoy jumping right in.
Also unless you live in the same area How would you know what the local health dept has said .

Barbara you hang on and keep on keeping on. Im assuming cake decorating is your creative outlet as it is mine I remember in your other posts you said you bake at your grandmother's house . Most CFL'S refer to local HD for what is or is not allowed . Like you said you have already checked with your local HD.
I bake from scratch.I also buy mixes to bake if I want to just practice decorating Then I usually take the cake(s) to work and give them away .
Land o'Lakes butter is $5 at the Grocery $3.65 at WM or Mejeirs here. Our Walmart has Swans cake flour,egglands best eggs also Organic eggs , as well as some of the higher end chocolate .I.believe if you ask they
will order a specfic item for you . Also Alot of you talk about buying from Sams for your baking business. Uh Sams is just a warehouse style store of WM its the same company .But no one downs anyone for shopping at Sams on here.
There are some areas where WM may be the only place to shop for 30 miles or more . As for someones home kitchen not being clean enough.Sure some peoples may not be but who are.some of you to judge someone by internet? . some of
you wouldnt eat out if you knew half of what goes on in most restuarants or how dirty they are .
Everyone has to start from somewhere. I appreciate things I m learning on this
form .Im a hobbiest with a FT job for now. But I do not appreciate the dog pack mentally of criticizing on here . It seems when one person has their nose stuck in the air and makes a negative comment SOME of you enjoy jumping right in.
Also unless you live in the same area How would you know what the local health dept has said .

Barbara you hang on and keep on keeping on. Im assuming cake decorating is your creative outlet as it is mine I remember in your other posts you said you bake at your grandmother's house . Most CFL'S refer to local HD for what is or is not allowed . Like you said you have already checked with your local HD.
I bake from scratch.I also buy mixes to bake if I want to just practice decorating Then I usually take the cake(s) to work and give them away .
Land o'Lakes butter is $5 at the Grocery $3.65 at WM or Mejeirs here. Our Walmart has Swans cake flour,egglands best eggs also Organic eggs , as well as some of the higher end chocolate .I.believe if you ask they
will order a specfic item for you . Also Alot of you talk about buying from Sams for your baking business. Uh Sams is just a warehouse style store of WM its the same company .But no one downs anyone for shopping at Sams on here.
There are some areas where WM may be the only place to shop for 30 miles or more . As for someones home kitchen not being clean enough.Sure some peoples may not be but who are.some of you to judge someone by internet? . some of
you wouldnt eat out if you knew half of what goes on in most restuarants or how dirty they are .
Everyone has to start from somewhere. I appreciate things I m learning on this
form .Im a hobbiest with a FT job for now. But I do not appreciate the dog pack mentally of criticizing on here . It seems when one person has their nose stuck in the air and makes a negative comment SOME of you enjoy jumping right in.
Also unless you live in the same area How would you know what the local health dept has said .

Multiple posts seems to be a problem today . Also forgive my spelling errors . Im on my cell and it makes it very hard to edit .

Barabara about Vanilla beans . Buying online is cheaper. I also have been using a vanilla bean paste I purchased on Amazon. 2-8oz. bottles for $22. The paste is actually a thick liquid with the seeds .I really like it .

I dont have any good diabetic recipes but do know there are some listed on CC. I remember one with low sugar cool whip and no sugar vanilla pudding .
I did see that there is sugar subsitute powdered sugar now . But with those fake sugars can do a number on your tummy . Also some people are allergic to them .
Even no sugar still has strartch which equals carbs.

BarbaraM0809: I don't know about you, but my habit of buying cake "stuff" is hampering it at the moment! I did quadruple my sales last year but am in the process of starting an online store. I hoping that investing in that will help get that second kitchen going. Really, I don't have to. I have a rather LARGE kitchen (about 1/4 of our house!!) but even at that, it can close in on you!

Cakery2012: I saw that powdered sugar too! I was going to buy it until I read the ingredients. One of them (it starts with an M) usually causes bad things to happen. I can only imagine what would happen if you ate a bunch of icing made with that stuff! Makes me cringe just thinking about it! What a perfect picture 1st thing in the morning! LOL!