Find us elsewhere
Join Now Member Login

From hobby bakery to full time

 
New Topic
Post Reply
Follow Topic
Page of 1
  • Author
  • Message
 
Bill7

posts: 2

Mar 31, 2008 4:06 PM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
Points: 0   Vote
 Hi everyone! I hope I`ve posted in the right place for starters.
 
My wife and I (mid 50`s) have been baking and selling a variety whole grain breads as a hobby out of our kitchen for years twice a month and have decided to make a go as a full time business. 
 
Over the years we have accumulated all the necessary commercial equipment necessary to; mill wheat, mix, proof, bake, slice and bag bread.
Our starting plan is to rent a small store front for selling product,
 
Now the starting questions.
1. What type of entity?
My wife (will continue to work part time) and I will both be a part of this during the start up period. I/we don`t need to take any money out for living expenses during this time and prefer to put any and all profits back into the business. Can we do this? ie: no salary?

2. Should we go to a lawyer to handle incorporation vs going through Legal Zoom etc? I`m leaning toward LZ for ease and expense reasons. But is it the best choice?

3. We already own the equipment, so how/when do we get it into corporate ownership?

4. We intend to have a bookkeeper/accountant. What should we ask/look for?

5. Any comments, suggestions up or down would be appreciated.

I`m sure I`ll have a lot more questions as we go from here. Thanks, Bill

Bill73/31/2008 9:13 PM
CraigL

posts: 9051

Mar 31, 2008 7:07 PM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
Points: 0   Vote
It seems to me that because you`re asking a variety of questions that have additional consequences and repercussions, it`d make the most sense to speak with a live attorney. From what I`ve read, Legal Zoom is more for people who already know exactly what they need (want?), don`t need to pay attorney`s fees, and don`t need any "thought" on the part of the attorney.

You, on the other hand, need legal guidance as much as you need specific legal tasks accomplished. That`s what you`d be paying for, with an attorney---their legal mind, analysis, and concern over your future potential issues.
barkwheats

posts: 35

Apr 01, 2008 5:02 AM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
Points: 0   Vote
I`d completely agree with Craig.  In our business class here in Midcoast Maine we recently had a lawyer come in to speak with us for a few hours about business structures.  Man oh man...was it ever intense.  After the discussion I decided it`s best for me to stay sole proprietor.  Find a good attorney, though.  They may cost more on the hourly side, but they should be able to get things done inside an hour or two where a less competent attorney could take much longer, though at a cheaper rate, and become more expensive in the long haul.





-------------------------

Barkwheats Dog Biscuits
-all natural, maine-made buckwheat dog biscuits
winston2

posts: 122

Apr 02, 2008 4:37 PM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
Points: 0   Vote
Bill,
I would start with SCORE in your area. It is a division of the Small Business Administration.
They will help you in starting your business, including help with the legal, accounting, business planning, marketing,etc. The SCORE chapter in our city has monthly workshops that cover all these areas. If there is not a SCORE chapter at least call the SBA and ask where you can get help. If you want to message me I would be glad to give you an outline that will help you get started on the right foot.
Winston
bellapria

posts: 22

Apr 03, 2008 12:55 PM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
Points: 0   Vote
Check your local colleges to see if they offer free business start up classes or meetings.  I know where I live they have a program like SCORE to help new businesses make decisions
besthealth

posts: 277

Apr 05, 2008 6:44 PM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
Points: 0   Vote
I agree with CraigL - legal advice is perhaps the best at this point. However, if you are tight on funds there are local business development offices, and as mentioned before SCORE. Best wishes............


-------------------------

Take each day, mold it and make it yours.......

http://www.solutionshealthnwellness.com
Bill7

posts: 2

Apr 05, 2008 9:26 PM ET    Quote  Report Abuse
Points: 0   Vote
Thank you all for your comments and suggestions so far. We appreciate them, and others that have yet to be posted.
 
Bill
 
Page of 1
Post Reply
 
.
Advertisement

Keep the Community Clean!

  • StartupNation forums should be used as a platform to learn, educate others, share stories, tips & tricks and to provide constructive feedback.
  • Please do not use the Forums for advertising & blatant self-promotion.
  • Please be respectful to other members and refrain from personal attacks and vulgar language.
  • StartupNation reserves the right to delete any message, reply, and/or member who violates our terms of use.
Read full terms of use
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement