How do I start my own online business?

How to start an online cupcake business?

• So I'm a teenager and want to start my own online cupcake business. I know I'm young but people always tell me they took the first cupcake to be nice and the second or third because it was incredible. So I want to startmy own online cupcake business from home. I have my recipes already and I just need to know how I should go about starting it, marketing and what equipment I will need for baking, packaging and decorating. I've baked tons of cupcakes so I have lots of experience but I just want some other people's opinions. Thanks so much!

• Answer:

  The first thing you should do when starting your home-based cupcake business is to make sure you have a few different original, no-fail cupcake recipes. To be successful in the cupcake business, your cupcakes will need to taste and look great every time. Practice until you can produce consistent results. 2. Create eye-catching cupcakes. Whether your cupcakes will be fancy or cute, you will need to be able to attract customers to your cupcakes. You can find books online that will teach you decorating techniques. There are also websites that can help you learn cake-decorating techniques that will ensure your cupcakes are unique. 3. Contact your local code enforcement or health office. They will be able to inform you about what is required in your area to operate a cupcake business. You may ask about being classified as a caterer which should help to ease requirements. 4. Create a bright, colorful website. If your cupcakes are upscale, make sure your website reflects that image. Your website should include clear, quality pictures of all of the cupcakes you offer. Be sure to suggest the possible uses for your cupcakes on your website including meetings, parties, wedding, etc. 5. Ensure that delivery packages of your cupcakes are clearly marked with your logo and website information. Delivery boxes should be marked with your information as well as individual bags for single cupcake sales. If you can not afford custom-imprinted bags or boxes, consider purchasing stickers with your information and logo to apply to each package. Custom stickers can help you deliver a professional image. 6. Deliver free samples to several local schools, businesses and restaurants. Use your imagination, the possibilities are endless for cupcake customers. Don't forget bridal shops. They may recommend your cupcakes to brides for the wedding or rehearsal dinner. Make sure you also deliver contact information and price lists. Be friendly and dressed in business attire. 7. For additional help in starting your business, you can contact SCORE at www.score.org. They will be able to match you with a retired business professional with experience in the food service or management industry. He or she will be able to offer you some helpful advice.