Help!

[Anonymous]

Hi all, I'm a SAHM and I'd like to start a home-based cooking class (basic and simple Italian dishes). I'm not a professional cook but I have quite a success when I cook for friends and family. With my lack of professional experience and the down to earth approach, would you ever attend something like that? What bewilderment would you have? Do you have any suggestion? THANK YOU!!!!

[Anonymous]

I would host a free class for friends and family first and ask for their honest feedback - what did they like/not like about it? What, if anything, would need to change before they would recommend you to their friends? I think it would have to be a word-of-mouth thing.

[Anonymous]

I would think you could get a start by offering some really really cheap classes just to get started.

Or you could offer some classes for free at your neighborhood school's silent auction.

People might be interested in learning how to cook once a week and then have meals in the freezer.

Also people might be willing to pay money to learn how to make foods they know they should eat but don't know how to cook: kale, broccoil, brussel sprouts -- the green veggies and beans!

Also anything with a grownup and kid could be good -- that falls into the "kid" section of the budget not the "adult ed" if you know what I mean.

I bet if you could come up with a class designed to encourage kids to be less picky/more adventurous eaters that might sell -- maybe a 3 week or 4 week class? Or something for teens -- getting more self reliant in the kitchen? Veggie meals for kids and teens?

Good luck!

[Anonymous]

The first thing I would do is to look into if it is even possible to have something like this in your area. Alot of laws dictate what can be done with home kitchens/food. Also, I think you would have to take your safe food handling exam before preparing food for people.

I agree to do some trial runs with friends and family.

That being said, there are lots of in home cooking classes, you really have to get yourself out there and make a name for yourself. Be your own PR. Make yourself a brand.

Being a SAHM, who would look after you kids while this was going on?