Pro cake decorators are well ahead of the game, which requires a lot of time and research. Most cake decorators have the essentials they need, from a turntable, palette knives, bench scrapers, to rolls of piping bags and all the nozzles in the world. But there are other essentials which pro cake decorator need and we dwell into it that more.

1. Lots of space and storage

Without storage, where will you keep your millions of items? The workspace needs to be clean and tidy, and away from the equipment. It's always tempting to choose the cheapest storage options, but please don't! Go for a theme instead, something that you like and know will last you a heck of a long time! You feel inspired if your work and space looks lovely.

Choose a combination of dressers and drawers to store tools, cake boards and boxes. Cabinets store all consultation pieces such as glassware, serving plates, teapots and silverware. Photography props and cake stands can be above the cabinet unit, so it's more in the view of your eye for when you need it.

Make sure the storage options are easy to wipe clean. To tell if the item is easy to clean, look at the finish the manufacturer has used. Check the item descriptions or ask the retailer for more info. You will have to figure out your storage solution based on how you work and what tools you use more often.

2. Cake Stands

When making wedding cakes, using professional stands look so much more beautiful than a cake board. Your clients may also want something decorative, a beautiful stand to display their cake which they have spent hundreds of pounds on. The cake stand can be as an extra service. Buy, good sturdy stands, some of our favourites are Mosser glass, they are stylish, durable and makes any cake look amazing.

Cake stands can be too large to store away but using your storage space; you can make a feature out of them. They can be across the bookcase or cabinet. If you have a separate consultation room where you hold meetings or cake tasting sessions, you can show them in there with dummy cakes stacked on. Clients can look at them and keep their options open.

Mosser cake stand

3. Technology

Not everyone is a computer whizz, but you don't need to be to appreciate the difference good tech can make. Investing in a good laptop, tablet and smartphone will make a massive difference in the long run.

Laptops are useful in many aspects from editing images, taking orders, invoices, and scheduling. iPads can be great for sketches, jotting down quick ideas and for social media.

Smartphones are perfect for communicating with clients, suppliers and taking pictures and videos. Use the calendar app on your laptop; you can use airdrop to move private documents to or even Dropbox. Always separate personal from business.

4. Bulk buying

If you only make cakes at home, it might be better to order the essentials in bulk. Strange as it may sound, but placing large orders not only saves you time, it also saves you money. Placing an order each time puts you out of pocket.

It all depends on your circumstances; if you only receive a few orders at a time, it may not be worth the investment. You can pick up some great deals on packs of 5 or 10 boards or boxes. You don't need to buy loads, a few to get you going, always a good idea to stay stocked up.

Be mindful of what you will use if you have specific brand colours, buy those colours and don't go off the radar with other colours. The same applies to sizes; if you don't make mini cupcakes, there is no need to buy mini cupcake boxes, also if you sell cupcakes in a box of 6, 12, 24, then only purchase those sizes.

There is also no need for branded packaging, we know everyone likes to get carried away once you have your logo finalised, but this can even eat up into your budget. Be sure to save from the start.

5. Office Space

When you decide to start a pro cake decorating business, you won't always be in the kitchen, most of your time will be spent on your computer. Put a little effort into creating an uplifting, positive office space. You will need to feel inspired, think about your business and style, you don't need to go all out and spend vast amounts on a fancy desk, or expensive wallpaper. Your space can be painted to a colour you like, and have wall hangings and plants if you want, with table objects. It all depends on you, and what works for you, after all, it's your space which you will be spending a lot of time and working in.

As you take the first step to build your business, you will find there is a lot to take into account, but don't fret or get stressed. You can take your time; we hope these five things help you to get a good start. As you work, you will discover more essentials you cannot live without!