I'm thinking about starting my cake business (officially 
), and am doing some business planning. I have no big equipment like industrial ovens, mixers, fondant rollers, air brushes, etc.
What's the best way to find this stuff without breaking the bank (considering it's all on my own until my business starts earning money!)?
Any advice appreciated!
I was very lucky in the fact that I found alot of the things that I needed on a local sales website, and also an online auction that was close by. This saved alot of money on shipping, because I was able to pick everything up myself. Maybe there are similar things in your area. If you will tell me where you are located, I can try to help you search out these options in your area.
Some things I wouldn't buy used, such as an airbrush. Things that will be put through a lot of use, or you want to have precision with, buy new! Do your research and invest wisely. Money spent now on quality will be money saved later on repairs.
Example, I just bought a kitchen aid 5.5qt mixer. I searched and searched. Up until now I've done everything with a hand mixer, think enough buttercream for a 3 tier wedding cake, with a hand mixer bought at wal mart. I was determined to use that until I found a GREAT deal on a stand mixer. I really wanted the 6 qt, but I found a 5.5qt that was lightly used for $150.
Great deals are out there, there are local auction sites in most metropolitan communities, things like craigslist (which is where I found my kitchenaid) are a good source, watch for businesses going out of business, or try to find local restaurant supply houses that deal in used equipment.
I was able to find 2 display cabinets for $50.00 each. My 3 compartment sink was $200, my 4' SS prep table was like $75, shelving unit for dry storage $20, SS hand sink for $30. Those are the type of items that I am talking about buying used. I was able to save @ $1000 on the 3 compartment sink alone. As far as the minor things such as airbrush equipment etc., yes I agree buy new. But if you can save thousands by buying used sinks and such, I say go for it.
I was able to find 2 display cabinets for $50.00 each. My 3 compartment sink was $200, my 4' SS prep table was like $75, shelving unit for dry storage $20, SS hand sink for $30. Those are the type of items that I am talking about buying used. I was able to save @ $1000 on the 3 compartment sink alone. As far as the minor things such as airbrush equipment etc., yes I agree buy new. But if you can save thousands by buying used sinks and such, I say go for it.
Not an hour after I posted in this thread, I came across a bunch of bakery items from a place that had gone under just a couple of hours away. 3 compartment sink, prep table, mop sink, and a bunch of bakery boxes. I'm waiting on pictures and pricing.
we will see when they send me a price for what they want. they had the table listed at $100
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