I want to start up from home making cake and cookies --- its something that I have always loved to do and is a great creative outlet --- what would be your advice for a start up? What equipment is a must and where have you had the best luck with advertisement?

Thank you all so much for your help! I cannot wait to start this new adventure!

i would start out with buying some good cake pans, Figure out what flavors, recipes you will be using, or box mixies, fillings, and frostings. Than calculate your prices so that you dont undersell your product.

Also, some must have equipment are decorating tips, icing bags, spatulas, and a turn table for starters.

Thank you! I have some tips and have been buying the disposeable bags (mainly because it seems easier) --- Turn table is next on the list and I want to work with fondant... whether I make marshmellow fondant or what not... I guess practice will make perfect.

Exciting! And you live in a CFL state!! But I suggest you go slowly with purchases. It's easy to get excited and buy items we will hardly use. (I have an attic full of barely-used supplies.) I also suggest you spend as much time learning about the business end of starting a business. That will help as much as practicing your fondant technique. Good luck with your new venture.