Home-Based wedding cake baker

Engaged couples and their families, plus wedding planners and venues that recommend vendors.

A price per slice or per cake, based on size, flavors and design detail. Add-ons include dessert tables, cake toppers, delivery and setup fees. Couples usually pay a deposit to book their date.

• Baking and cake decorating
• Photographing and showing off your work
• Organizing orders and deadlines
• Talking through ideas and budgets with couples

• Cottage food rules vary by state and county; some limit sales, cake types (for example fillings that need refrigeration) or require a kitchen inspection or permit
• Check whether your city or county requires a home occupation permit, and review any HOA or lease rules
• General liability insurance and product liability cover; many venues ask for proof of insurance
• Allergen labeling and food safety training, check what your state requires
• Delivering tiered cakes is risky in hot weather, plan transport carefully
• Weekend-heavy work and seasonal peaks, with a possible slow winter

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the baking and decorating equipment you need, packaging, and any permits or insurance. These are estimates, so price your own kit and local fees.

Check your state and county cottage food rules, which vary and may limit sales, cake types such as refrigerated fillings, or require an inspection or permit. Also check home occupation permits, HOA or lease rules, insurance and allergen labeling.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $3,500, depending on how many cakes you book and your pricing. The estimate assumes at least about 10 hours a week. Expect weekend-heavy work, seasonal peaks and a possible slow winter.