2 answers
Natalie
Student
7
Questions
Updated
535 views
Would I be able to have an international online pastry baking business? How would I be able to manage and own a business?
I would like those with similar career choices and experiences to answer. Although other responses are appreciated that have not.
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2 answers
Tara Dalrymple
Workplace Community & Culture
7
Answers
Galway
Updated
Tara’s Answer
Hey Natalie!
I may not work directly in the pastry world, but my son has been dreaming about this, so I’m excited to share what I’ve learned from our conversations (and many late-night brainstorming sessions)!
First of all, having an international online pastry business is possible. People are doing it, and it can be fun and rewarding if you’re passionate about baking. But there are a few things to think about to make it work.
Before jumping in with both feet, it can be wise to start small. Think about testing your recipes and packaging locally first. You could set up an Instagram page or a website to showcase your creations and take orders in your area. This will help you get a feel for what people like, how to handle orders, and how to price your products. It’s all about getting your feet wet before going global.
Navigating Shipping & Packaging
This is the biggie when it comes to an international pastry business—how to ship your delicious treats without them turning into a crumbly mess! My son and I have talked a lot about this challenge, and it seems like the key is to focus on pastries that are sturdy (like cookies or biscotti) or that can be packaged safely. You’ll also need to research shipping costs and how to keep things fresh during long journeys.
Building a Strong Online Presence
Your website and social media are like shop windows when running an online business. Investing some time in beautiful photos of your pastries, engaging with your followers, and maybe even making fun recipe videos can help attract customers. My son always talks about using TikTok and Instagram to build a community—it’s a great way to connect with people who might become loyal fans.
Understanding Different Markets & Tastes
Since you’re thinking internationally, it’s good to remember that not everyone has the same taste in pastries. Research what’s popular in different countries and maybe experiment with flavours that suit those preferences. My son is obsessed with trying new flavour combinations that appeal to other cultures, which is a fun way to stand out!
Managing the Business Side
This part can be intimidating, especially if you’re more creative, but it’s so important. My son and I have discussed using tools like Shopify or Etsy to handle orders, payments, and shipping, making things much easier to manage. And don’t forget about the basics, like keeping track of expenses, profits, and any taxes or regulations you need to follow, especially when selling internationally.
Running your own business, primarily online and international, can be challenging, but it’s doable if you’re passionate and willing to do the work. Remember to start small, learn as you go, and enjoy the process!
I may not work directly in the pastry world, but my son has been dreaming about this, so I’m excited to share what I’ve learned from our conversations (and many late-night brainstorming sessions)!
First of all, having an international online pastry business is possible. People are doing it, and it can be fun and rewarding if you’re passionate about baking. But there are a few things to think about to make it work.
Before jumping in with both feet, it can be wise to start small. Think about testing your recipes and packaging locally first. You could set up an Instagram page or a website to showcase your creations and take orders in your area. This will help you get a feel for what people like, how to handle orders, and how to price your products. It’s all about getting your feet wet before going global.
Navigating Shipping & Packaging
This is the biggie when it comes to an international pastry business—how to ship your delicious treats without them turning into a crumbly mess! My son and I have talked a lot about this challenge, and it seems like the key is to focus on pastries that are sturdy (like cookies or biscotti) or that can be packaged safely. You’ll also need to research shipping costs and how to keep things fresh during long journeys.
Building a Strong Online Presence
Your website and social media are like shop windows when running an online business. Investing some time in beautiful photos of your pastries, engaging with your followers, and maybe even making fun recipe videos can help attract customers. My son always talks about using TikTok and Instagram to build a community—it’s a great way to connect with people who might become loyal fans.
Understanding Different Markets & Tastes
Since you’re thinking internationally, it’s good to remember that not everyone has the same taste in pastries. Research what’s popular in different countries and maybe experiment with flavours that suit those preferences. My son is obsessed with trying new flavour combinations that appeal to other cultures, which is a fun way to stand out!
Managing the Business Side
This part can be intimidating, especially if you’re more creative, but it’s so important. My son and I have discussed using tools like Shopify or Etsy to handle orders, payments, and shipping, making things much easier to manage. And don’t forget about the basics, like keeping track of expenses, profits, and any taxes or regulations you need to follow, especially when selling internationally.
Running your own business, primarily online and international, can be challenging, but it’s doable if you’re passionate and willing to do the work. Remember to start small, learn as you go, and enjoy the process!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Natalie
Rich Bianculli
Regional Director - Network Strategy Department
19
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Rich’s Answer
I am not from the pastry business but have seen models work that are similar and have experience in starting a business and working at startups.
I think there is a space for this. Especially in the US when you have a lot of cultures who still travel home and miss local delicacies.
The successful business model I have seen is based of packages goods. They take European & asian cookies and snacks that you would fine at any convenience store, import these, and sell them in their shop.
If going online, your marketing skills and procurement method is going to be crucial. If you are a reseller, you can invest more time and capital in building up followers and customers. This is all about brand and interacting with you customers/followers.
If you are producing the pastries, focus on scalability, packaging, costs, and the product. Identify what your consumer base will be, what are they looking for that they cannot find anywhere else, and how can you provide that specific product with quality and profitability.
Either way, learn how to build a website, start blogging on this website, create content, and get that content in front of the right people. Gather feedback, use the data to make decisions, and start!
I think there is a space for this. Especially in the US when you have a lot of cultures who still travel home and miss local delicacies.
The successful business model I have seen is based of packages goods. They take European & asian cookies and snacks that you would fine at any convenience store, import these, and sell them in their shop.
If going online, your marketing skills and procurement method is going to be crucial. If you are a reseller, you can invest more time and capital in building up followers and customers. This is all about brand and interacting with you customers/followers.
If you are producing the pastries, focus on scalability, packaging, costs, and the product. Identify what your consumer base will be, what are they looking for that they cannot find anywhere else, and how can you provide that specific product with quality and profitability.
Either way, learn how to build a website, start blogging on this website, create content, and get that content in front of the right people. Gather feedback, use the data to make decisions, and start!