Hello to my NJ CC members:

I am new to CC and have found alot of great information on this website . I see that there are alot of talented individuals and aspiring business owners. I was truly saddened to find out that in NJ it is not legal to operate a home based cake decorating business. So, I followed the information directed by many to call my local health department and get information on how to go about having a legal business. Well, here in Essex County you have to operate in a seperate commercial kitchen. This can be licensed and in the name of another local business/organization as long as the inspection is up to code. I was told that all I needed to do in this case is to get a food handlers license through a 3hr class at the local department of health (they are booked until October ).

I would like to take this route for now, but I'm not sure if the cost would be worth it (saw a posting for space that costs 1850 a month + utilities). I still have 2 full-time jobs (9-5 and the kids) so I can not use a space all day but would be willing to share.

My question(s) to all my nj bakers is 1.) Have any of you gotten this same information when researching this in NJ? 2.) Have any of you who are in the same area ever thought about sharing a commercial rental space to offset the rental amount?

Just thought I would put this out there and see what happens

Have you looked at other places in your area that may offer the course? It took some digging around, but I found that my local community college is offering the course during the fall semester. In addition, I found a local university is also offering the course. However, unlike the community college, this is offered full time for 2 weeks. That wouldnt work for me because I work full-time.

Have you been successful in finding commercial kitchens for rent in your area? That may be the way to go for now if your orders are going to be sporadic.

Just started doing the research. I have been reading the thread about becoming a legal business and would like to within the next year. NJ commercial kitchen space seems limited but I am going to think "outside of the box". As health department rep said as long as the space is health inspected certified, and i get my license everything would be fine. I will check with local college to see if they offer the class.

Good luck! Make sure you keep us posted!

My only question is: When did Essex County become Central NJ??? lol

To PinkZiab:

That was an an error! Thanks for pointing out that I'm a geography dope

Best Wishes- LOL right with you

It was supposed to say To Cake Central NJ Bakers LOL! I can see why you said that. I totally didn't notice until today. I was questioning all NJ at home bakers. Thanks for pointing that out

hehehe... no worries.. I just couldn't resist... besides, we all know that Central NJ is just a myth created by people who don't want to admit they're really from South Jersey (lol).