Hello SoWal: I just joined and Need Your Opinions on opening a storefront bakery

I was just saying the other day that we don't have a "pure" bakery that does nothing bu baked goods. At least not that I could think of. Although we have some great bakers around here. Like La Lobas, Fatty Patty's, etc. I think they diversify a bit to keep steady income.

I imagine the key would be to keep busy in the off season by supplying other outlets and restaurants.

I think this is a great idea, but to make it work here, location, location. Best of luck.

A real bakery would be fantastic. I think you need to choose a place with a minimal lease to control your fixed overhead. I agree with Kurt that you need to diversify to be succesful in the off season. Perhaps coffee in the AM, sliders or sandwiches at lunch (you know, something easy to prepare), and selling to local restaurants.

Watercolor would be a good location.

first, I think it is a really good idea. I do believe you need to locate as close to the masses as possible. the usual suspects in my opinion--Seaside/Watercolor/Gulf Place/Rosemary.....

Best of luck!!!

Kurt, thank you for you're valuable input.Yes, part of our marketing plan is to develop a wholesale customer base as well as the year round birthday, special event/holiday needs.

Franny, your input about location is key. Thanks so much.

Beach Runner, your suggestions are factors that can make or break a business. You understand small business. We have discussed the other profit centers and coffee and simple sandwhiches on the homemade breads (no preservatives) we will bake are right on.

scooterbug44
Thank-you! Watercolor is on the list, have not yet spoken to anyone about available space, but it is so central on 30A.

groveral Thanks for the positive words. Location is Especially important for a start-up.
Our cakes, pastries, breads etc will keep folks coming back. We will work hard at providing people with quality & value.

There was a wonderful pastry and sandwich shop in Gulf Place just off 395 that just disappeared. I don't know if the space is still available or not but Gulf Place is a good consideration.

I worked in a bake shop in Houston that was only open for breakfast and lunch. All of the usual bakery items were made and sold there, but what really kept them busy was their simple menu. It consisted of really good chicken salad, tuna salad, and a few hot dishes that were easy to prepare in large quantities. Of course, the homemade bread was key. Pretty much like the Donut Hole but not as expensive and way more limited menu. They were packed for lunch because it was a quick, easy menu that never changed and was under $8.00 so people knew exactly what to expect when they got to the counter. Best of luck!

Andy A Thanks for your location suggestion, Gulf Place is on the list or someplace near. I think FIRE just relocated to that spot, but i'll check.

sunspotbaby
You are right on about keeping it simple with a few excellent, plentiful, reasonably priced signature sandwiches and a few hot dishes. Your insight is so appreciated, yours and everyone who is sharing!!

Next Hot Spot

You should check out the commercial spaces at Redfish Villagea. The capital structure will allow you to be successful long term. They have just sold most of the residential spaces and this place will come alive in the next few months.

30AMichigander
Thank-you. Redfish Village is under consideration! The costs and fees were way too high before.

Seagrove ... hub of activity and close to Seaside

If you have real chocolate eclairs (German/French) I will come !

Best of luck to ya and keep us posted where you end up. I could truly live by bread alone and I've been known to drive a piece for some good bread. I might even drive 12 hours.