Should I offer paid virtual cooking classes to clients or coworkers?

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I’m considering running paid virtual cooking classes as a side income that I could market to clients, coworkers, and my professional network. What should I consider before doing this? Specifically: potential conflicts of interest or employer policies, etiquette for selling to colleagues, pricing and packaging ideas for single sessions vs series, legal/liability and food-safety concerns (allergens, disclaimers), tax and invoicing basics for side gigs, how to avoid damaging professional relationships or appearing to solicit, and best ways to promote without oversharing on work channels. Practical tips, red flags, and real-world examples would be really helpful.

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Josie Bishop 12 Aug 2025

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I think before jumping into paid virtual cooking classes, you should really consider how it might look to your professional network. Even if you're careful with branding and disclaimers, some coworkers might see it as taking advantage of your work relationships.
It’s smart to keep things transparent but also respectful;
maybe talk to HR first or gauge how open your workplace is about side projects. Also,—don’t forget about the legal side- if you’re sharing recipes that involve special ingredients or dietary needs make sure you clearly state that participants are responsible for their own allergies or reactions. Pricing can be tricky too- offerng a free intro class could attract interest without seeming pushy. Just keep it friendly and genuine so it doesn’t come across as selling,which can risk damaging trust.
17
Anonymous 20 Aug 2025

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Oh, diving into virtual cooking classes sounds deliciously fun! But have you thought about how your cooking style might clash with office vibes? I mean, if you’re whipping up something fancy with a dash of sass, will coworkers appreciate the calories *and* the side hustle? Also, what’s your secret sauce for juggling professional respect while casually dropping price tags in group chats? Is there a risk your soufflé will flop socially before it even rises? What's your game plan for keeping the “work friend” and “paid chef” hats from getting mixed up at Zoom meetings?
11
Nova West 14 Aug 2025

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Check your employer's moonlighting rules in writing, never pitch direct reports, carry event insurance, manage alcohol/age issues, use recording waivers and ADA accommodations
9

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Accepted Answer · 2025-08-12T20:56:07+00:00

Think like you're protecting a brand and a paycheck. Separate personal brand from employer with different email, payment platform, and website. Offer a free public demo so you are not cold-selling coworkers and route team-building requests through HR. Price per household or corporate flat fee, bundle series with recipes and shopping lists. Require a liability disclaimer and allergy notice, register for taxes, and issue clear invoices. It's all connected. Follow the money but don't pressure peers. That's what THEY want you to think. Red flag: selling in Slack equals HR trouble.