The Enid News and Eagle, Enid, OK

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  • Kirstyn Fitch, 13, checks out some of the items for sale during the home-based business expo on Saturday afternoon at Enid Symphony Center. (Staff Photo by SHAWN YORKS)

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February 27, 2010

Home-based business vendors showcase wares

By Joe Malan, Staff Writer Enid News and Eagle

ENID — Diane Mencke thought it would be easy to just sell cakes out of her house and make money.

But it was more complex than she thought.

“I didn’t know you couldn’t just sell it out of your house,” the Ames resident said.

Getting used to Oklahoma’s laws pertaining to home businesses was just one of the many things Mencke had to do to get her own business, Cakes By Diane, going.

Mencke and about a dozen other entrepreneurs showed off the fruits of their labor in the “From Our Home to Your Home: Home Based Business Expo” Saturday at Enid Symphony Center.

The home-based business vendors showcased everything from jewelry to beauty products to cookware.

Several vendors at the expo gave tips on how to start a home-based business.

Mencke said one of the most important things to do when starting a business from home is to get your name out there.

Web sites, Facebook pages and especially word of mouth all are important vehicles for getting the word out.

Mencke said do research on what is required before starting the business, even  if you think you know what’s required.

She believed initially she could make cakes at home and sell them, but that’s not really true.

“All states’ laws are different,” she said. “But in Oklahoma, you have to have a commercial kitchen.”

Denna and Rhonda Jantzen, who sell Mary Kay products out of their home, say no matter what home-based business you are starting, you have to be motivated.

“You have to have the courage to walk up to someone and ask if they’re interested in a facial or some makeup,” Denna Jantzen said.

Sonya Wofford, along with her husband, Errol, began selling various products several years ago in a small booth at the Basket Kase store in Enid.

Now, they have their very own store called Soapweeds & Cactus in the middle of downtown Enid that sells Western, Southwestern, lodge and rustic furnishings, along with other items.

Errol suggested to sell a product that is unique and different than others.

“Showcase what you have,” he said. “You’d be surprised how (well) your business can grow.”

The home-based business expo was sponsored by StarTek.

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