My employer added a bakery for the first time to their business (Texaco convenience store). The original manager quit abruptly. I was the only one left working in the bakery at the time, so... "Wa-la...I was now the bakery manager." Though I have had extensive experience baking at home, I am not at all educated like ya'll. This is very difficult for me to approach such an elite group with my small problem, however, my company refers to my bakery as "Our headache..."
I have become adept enough, to have (for the first time) begun to actually receive requests for certain items I bake. This is doubtless pretty whimsical to you, but I need someone who would be inclined to help a person literally "dumped" into a position. I can't quit my job, my husband had 2 major heart-attacks and can't work. We desperately need the insurance. I so want to prove all these people snickering behind my back to be wrong, but without help, I fear this can't be. Can anyone help?

By pam on Thursday, December 07, 2000 - 12:46 am: Edit

Will they pay for you to take some classes at a local Jr College or where ever they offer them? That would probably help alot, to take beginning baking & pastry to get the basics.

By chefkramer on Thursday, December 07, 2000 - 03:00 pm: Edit

cuddlebug:
write me maybe i can assist you in some cases

By W.DeBord on Friday, December 08, 2000 - 07:09 am: Edit

I can relate to your situation, NO one will laugh at you for asking for help. I don't understand what kind of help you want? Recipes, ideas for what to make thats simple, how to get some help, where to get your ingredients, how to bake in greater volume, what will sell, how to simplify your tasks?????


Give us more specific questions and we'll help. It doesn't sound like a "full service" type of bakery so if you keep your items simple (since you do know how to bake) you can do it! Mrs. Fields does very well making only a few items and that's a model I would suggest you follow since your not looking to become a pastry chef.

What items are you currently making(cookies, cakes etc...)? What's your kitchen/equipment situation like...do you have a convection oven, large mixer or table top mixer?