I have been struggling with the whole cake business deal for some time now.
it seems to me that I can not afford to rent a commercial kitchen at a parttime schedule and thus be legal. the only way that I think the business model works for me is to be a fulltime baker. unfortunately, I do not want to be fulltime yet - I have one child in afternoon kindergarten and another still at home (preschool next fall).
don't hate me, but for now I am comfortable baking (paid) for family and friends.

here's the issue.
I just got an email from a lady working with my daughter's school, she wants to consider me for her daughter's wedding cake.
'eek-run away' is what runs though my head
and Leahs saying... 'get legal or go home'

it's not that I don't understand tiered construction, a wedding just seems like too much pressure, and I worry about the whole legal issue...
(after the kids go to school, then I think I can get serious and want to do weddings, especially to better my profit margin)

I think that I should say no, but do you have any suggestions as to how to phrase it?

Tell her "I would love to do it and take on the challenge, but right now I do not have my licensed and it is illegal for me to sell my cakes. I'm sorry." Be honest and up front. Honesty usually works the best. Before I got my license I told a few people that and they totally understand. HTH.

Thank her for thinking of you, but let her know that you are not available to do the cake. As someone said on another thread similar to this (and I think it was leahs), you don't have to explain any details, just politely decline.

Thank you both!
I will likely thank her and politely decline (it is very flattering to be considered!!!)

she does know that I'm not legal.
I tell my friends that upfront, and explained that in detail to the ladies at school (I'm doing a couple charity donations).

Always go with what your instincts tell you. Your gut told you to run away, so I would listen to that, and trust yourself!

*Edited to say: Your work is just exquisite! I've never come across you before here, but you have a real talent. Wow!