BROWNSUGA

I am strongly considering enrolling in a baking and pastry program at a nearby school. Up until now, I have baked at home. I am very much interested in learning more about baking and pastry, perfecting my skills and hopefully, one day, working in the industry. I know there are alot of people who are self-taught. However, I am one in need of class instruction. The program I have chosen has alot of hands-on teaching. The program is not the problem. I am just considering where I want to go from there. Of course, I would like to own my own business one day. However, that is not an immediate desire. (I am currently working full-time in a non-related field. As it stands now, I dont plan to leave my job, as it pays the bills and provides great medical benefits. However, it is just a job. It is not to say that I am ruling out leaving my job. It is just not a thought right now. I am open to the possibilities.) Since graduating from college, I have always worked a part-time job off and on. So, I figured, if I am going to work part-time (and full-time), I would much rather it be in a field that I enjoy. I am curious to know what other options are out there. After completing the program, I dont mind working for someone else to gain some experience. Plus, working in an establishment will help direct my path. I am thinking long-term and wonder where do I go from there. I have read how difficult it could be to own and operate a bakery or even a retail business. I wasnt sure what the other options are. (As it stands now, I truly enjoy making cakes and desserts. But I am aware that my interests could expand by the time I complete the program.) Does anyone have information on catering business (or possibly other businesses that dont require a large startup costs like that of a shop of a bakery) or could direct me where I could obtain information? I am looking for information on catering such things as baked goods. Thank you in advance.

Hello, I am new to EGULLET. I just wanted to let you know that I have enjoyed your adventures in baking! I completely understand your venture b/c I have also started brushing up on my baking skills. Like you, I used to look at one side of the grocery store aisle....the aisle that contained cake mixes, cookie mixes, and any other mixes. I made it a point to stay away from anything that sounded confusing (i.e. all of these different types of flours, sugars, etc.). However, as I have become more interested in baking, I now look at the aisle stuff opposite the cake mix and cookie mixes, not feeling intimidated anymore. I used to want to take the easy way out...add the mix and the few ingredients that were called for. Now, I actually enjoy carefully measuring out each ingredient, mixing and waiting for that final product! Through my venture, my taste buds have even changed. I used to prefer box cake mixes, but now my tongue can decipher the difference. Dont get me wrong, box mixes served there purposes, but now I prefer cakes, cookies and other goodies made from scratch. Like you, not only do I want to be able to put a good recipe together, I would also like to know and understand teh principles of baking. I look forward to hearing the rest of your journey, as I take my own journey. Right now, I am focusing on cakes and cookies and hope to move into other desserts and baked goods. I also plan to pick up some good books to assist me. There are alot of great suggestions in this thread!!