Home Bakery Startup Checklist

Use this checklist when a baker is moving from "people like my cakes" to "I want to sell cakes in a more organized way."

This is not legal, tax, accounting, or licensing advice. Check official local requirements and qualified professionals where needed. The purpose here is to set up the practical business workflow.

Decide What You Sell First

• Choose 1-3 starter offers.
• Decide whether you are selling custom cakes, cupcakes, sheet cakes, dessert boxes, or a limited menu.
• Write a short description for each offer.
• Decide your minimum order amount.
• Decide your normal booking window.

Set Up Pricing Basics

• Cost your main recipes.
• List common supplies and packaging.
• Choose an hourly labor rate.
• Include overhead.
• Add profit.
• Create starting prices or quote rules.

Set Up Order Intake

• Create an order form or inquiry checklist.
• Ask for event date, servings, flavor, design notes, pickup/delivery, and allergy notes.
• Confirm availability before quoting.
• Save order details somewhere reliable.

Set Up Quotes And Payments

• Use a quote template.
• State what is included.
• Require a deposit to reserve the date.
• Set a balance due date.
• Add quote expiration.
• Keep invoice/payment status visible.

Set Up Policies

• Deposit policy.
• Cancellation/reschedule policy.
• Change request policy.
• Pickup/delivery policy.
• Allergy and cottage food disclosure, if relevant.

Set Up Weekly Review

• Review orders booked.
• Review unpaid balances.
• Review ingredient/supply changes.
• Review profit on completed orders.
• Update pricing when needed.