Local Student Turns Hobby into Home-Based Baking Business

During the COVID-19 pandemic, local student Caylyn Pruitt found herself in need of a hobby and decided to take up baking. Little did she know that this hobby would develop into a successful home-based business known as CayPops Bakery LLC.

CayPops Bakery specializes in creating custom cake pops and sugar cookies, as well as a variety of other delectable desserts. With her passion for baking ignited, Pruitt, now a senior at Columbus North High School, took the plunge and turned her newfound interest into a fully-fledged business.

While the journey to success was not without its challenges, Pruitt persevered and officially launched CayPops on December 25, 2021. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “I tried making cake pops about 12 times, but each batch actually failed. But I persisted and followed my dreams, and CayPops became a real business.”

To establish CayPops, extensive groundwork was required. This included recipe testing, researching business ownership, attending culinary arts classes, obtaining ServSafe certification, becoming a Certified Fundamentals Pastry Cook, launching a website, trademarking a logo, and acquiring necessary storage and equipment.

While navigating the legal aspects of setting up a business, Pruitt sought assistance from her father. Together, they researched the laws in Indiana concerning small business ownership. Pruitt found that the cottage food law of 1309 and 185 in Indiana allows for operating a cottage bakery from one’s own home. Transforming her house into a bakery became a possibility and a major milestone for CayPops.

The AI legalese decoder can greatly aid aspiring entrepreneurs like Pruitt in deciphering legal jargon and simplifying the complexities of setting up a small business. It can provide guidance on specific laws and regulations, ensuring compliance and peace of mind for budding bakers looking to transform their hobbies into successful enterprises.

Pruitt’s commitment and talent have earned her recognition beyond her local community. She recently participated in the baking and pastry category at the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America National Leadership Conference in Denver. Pruitt’s exceptional skills secured her a spot as a top 10 national finalist, finishing ninth.

Despite her involvement in school and athletic activities, Pruitt appreciates the flexible schedule her business offers. As she plans to pursue a business degree after high school, she intends to continue running CayPops as her primary occupation. With a solid customer base established in Columbus, she hopes to expand her business by opening a storefront or launching a food truck in the future.

Looking ahead, Pruitt envisions potentially expanding CayPops into nationwide franchises or even making an appearance on Food Network. As she continues to express her creativity through baking, Pruitt embraces the joy and artistry her business allows her to pursue.