by Curtis D. Tucker

Who doesn't love a great cupcake? Cupcakes are all the rage and finding original cupcakes that knock your socks off can be a daunting task in most towns and cities. If your town does not have a fantastic bakery that sells cupcakes I can almost guarantee there is a need.

Almost anyone can make cupcakes so you will need to sell more than batter and frosting. You'll need to sell a quality, originality, service or uniqueness that others do not have. Think about unique ways of decorating, unusual wrappers, funky packaging and other hot selling points.

Making ends meet with just cupcakes might be stretching it so be prepared to also offer small cakes, cookies and other fun pastries. Be the alternative to the local donut shop. A great coffee, hot chocolate and tea selection can make the difference. Don't forget about awesome lemonade in the summer and apple cider in the winter.

Also think about other marketing strategies like creative decorations, whimsical designing, fun uniforms, memorable cupcake names, retro furniture, stylish promotional items and any other factor that will set you apart.

Offer a place for tea parties, poem readings, showers and other celebrations. Use fun cartoon characters to help attract those young whipper snappers and senior discounts to draw the old fogies.

Do your research and make sure you have your ducks in a row before jumping in head first. The food industry has many hoops you'll have to jump through so be sure you understand the rules and regulations in your area.

Now start baking and send me a picture of your shop once it's open!

Labels: Business Start-Ups, Food