I have filed a special use application with my local zoning board for my cake business. Well, I have sent certified letters to all my neighbors and they have all been very supportive. Except for one. The crabby retired man that lives across from me came over today to let me know that he would be coming to the meeting to object. Well after freaking out on the inside, I politely and calmly asked him what his issues were. He said he was concerned about traffic. I nicely told him that I didn't anticipate that being a problem because I deliver most of my cakes and that I would hopefully be doing a lot of wedding cakes which I would be going and setting up. Well, after talking to him for quite awhile he said he thought I had addressed his concerns and he probably wouldn't come and object. It wouldn't be so annoying if he weren't the one who is always negative and a crab about everything. He once came out and screamed at my other neighbor for messing up his grass. Also, his wife is the nicest person. I had already talked to her about it and she said they were very happy for me and wished me much success. I can't imagine how she stands to live with him. Oh well, I would hate to go through life with that attitude. I just had to write because I knew you all would understand. The meeting is October 20th. I will let you all know if he shows up.
Hi,
Firstly, I just LOVE your avatar!!!
Ok, now, could you possibly ask his wife to talk to her husband? I seriously doubt one bad apple is going to ruin the whole bunch. It is so thoughtful of you to have sent out letters to all your neighbors. And I would make that a strong point at the meeting that you will be delivering the majority of the cakes and such. I just don't understand the traffic concern, myself. I mean, how MUCH different could it possibly be than if you had friends or family visiting? He wouldn't have even noticed if you hadn't sent the letter. Some people just make issues out of things that don't affect them...just to do it. (I think) I know it will work out well for you! And congratulations!!!
The grass issue, I understand. My hubby is very particular about our yard and when people ride their bikes through it, or come romping through....it ticks him off! LOL But in my hubby's defense...he spends HOURS tending to our yard and we have the best looking grass in our neighborhood. He is sooo funny to watch....he hears the smallest sound and runs out to see if it is something going through our yard. All our friends tease him, but I understand, his feelings. When I spend hours cleaning the house, I don't want someone to romp through and track dirt in and such.
Anyway, sorry for rambling. I hope it goes smoothly and I hope he does understand now that you have very considerately discussed the situation with him.
Good luck!!!
Leslie
I hope he doesn't cause you any problems and that everything goes smoothly for you. Good luck and keep us posted!
hope everything goes well for you and that you pick up more business at the meeting when people realize that you take this very seriously. some people are just so unhappy with themselves they want to put a cold water on everything. good luck and happy baking
I bet he doesn't show!!
Those old people - they get set in their ways! I'm sure he was afraid you'd be having cars in and out all the time. I think you did the right thing by being polite and asking him to explain his objection. It gave you a chance to explain without him getting blustery.
It reminds me of my grandfather. And now that you mention it, my FIL. And my DH is getting that way. He's already starting to complain that the neighbor kids run through our yard. Oh no! 
Hugs to you! Hopefully all goes smooth! Maybe sneak the old guy some cake...win him over! 
Yep, I used to work in a place where I had contact with the public 100%. Well, just when you thought the day was going to go by without any problems, here comes the guy or the lady that wants to gripe about something...
Usually something minor and that could be solved in a matter of minutes...
I wonder sometimes why. Must be something in their lives that really ticked them off and can't seem to get over it...
Very sad indeed. IF they only knew what it does to their hearts....
MissMersh - my mom made my avatar. She is really talented at things like that. I told her to do something retro bakerish!! I would like to say that I just thougthfully sent out those letters but it was required by the zoning board and I have to bring in my return receipts to show that they were received. I also have a sign that I have to put out with notice of the time and date of the meeting. I also understand the grass issue but thought that yelling about it was a little uncalled for.
scoobam - Thanks. My mom did my site also hence the baby pictures! LOL!
Thanks for all the support. I love this site!!
At least he came over and talked to you about it. That doesn't really sound malicious. And, it sounds as though you really did address his concerns and he won't be a problem. Maybe you could make him a little cake and convert him to a staunch supporter. Is it p;ossible he uses coming over to complain to neighbors as a way to interact with people becasue he doesn't know any other way to make ocntact?
I agree with Kos..
Kill him with kindness, since you already have a relationship with the wife..ask her what his favorite flavor cake is and make it for him. Bring it over to him..or better yet...invite them over to coffee and to tour your set up. If you have him on your side...he will be your staunchest supporter.
Also, bring some samples to the meeting..lol and make sure that you DRIVE it in that you will NOT have any traffic ...that most of your business is done over the phone and that you deliver.
The only time anyone would come to your house is if you EVER had bridal consultations..and those are by APPOINTMENT ONLY!.
If realtors can have..>BY APPOINTMENT SHOWINGS...so can your wedding cakes..lol
Good luck! and do keep us posted!!
Wow.....some people are just crazy.............
good luck ....
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