I can't find anything on the internet about starting a cake competition I don't know if it's considered a business or not? But, i live in a small area and apparently there are a lot of bakers around. I think we could totally benefit from something being in our town since we have two major cities around us and not everyone can travel to those places.

anyone have any information about starting up competitions? Doesn't even have to be competitive it could just be a SHOW! where do I START!?

Thanks

There is quite a bit of work to starting/having a show. You will need volunteers to help with the different things. You'll need rules, divisions, venue, expenses, judging, awards and ceremony, set up, clean up, and possibly insurance.

I suggest that you print the rules and entry forms of other shows to get some ideas. When writing your rules, be sure that they are not exact copies of another. Some rules have copyright protection.

I've wanted to have a show too, but there are several in Texas. I hope you can get a show going.

I would like to help you if I can. Please e-mail me if you would like.

Michele

Sorry to take so long to respond. It's been a busy week.

It's possible to have a show with no ribbons. However, most people who enter shows expect to at least have a chance of winning a ribbon. It's a very competitive field and most want to see how they stack up against others. Also, if people have to pay to enter, they definitely expect ribbons. Unless you have unlimited funds and do not need help covering the cost of the show, you will need to charge entry fees.

You could do a poll on CC to ask if people would attend a show with no ribbons or not. This should help answer that question.

As for the insurance, most venues have insurance carriers to cover events. This is a preventative for lawsuits in case someone falls or gets hurt in some other way. I have no idea how much this runs. Some locations will have concession stands. The venue keeps that money, but they also provide the workers. It's a great thing to have available, but not necessary.

Most shows use any profits to donate to a charity. This also helps bring in visitors and entrants. People also love drawings for prizes. Many times you can get some great stuff donated for advertising space.

As for when to have a show check the times of shows on your state, large shows like the OSSAS in Tulsa, OK, "That Takes the Cake" in Austin, TX., and a couple of show in Virginia and/or Maryland. Also keep in mind when peak wedding seasons are and possible weather issues in your area for the time of year.

That's all I can think of right now. If I think of anything else I'll add to it.

I hope I'm not driving you crazy.

Michele